NBA Notes: Grizzlies, Ja Morant, Sixers, Joel Embiid, Pacers

Grizzlies

Ja Morant returned to action Friday night after missing ten games with a right calf strain, finishing with 21 points and 10 assists, according to Clay Bailey of the Associated Press.

Morant took on a more aggressive role offensively, logging just over 25 minutes, but the efficiency was uneven. He shot 7-of-20 from the field and committed four turnovers.

Morant said he felt compelled to assert himself after the layoff, even if the results were mixed.

“I was forced to get some shots up,” Morant said. “Some I missed. Some I made. I just got to live with it.”

Memphis appears focused on easing Morant back into rhythm as he works toward full form.

76ers

Joel Embiid said his conditioning and recovery continue to improve as he manages ongoing knee issues, writes Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer.

After playing both Friday and Sunday, Embiid noted he no longer requires two full days off between games, a limitation that had been in place earlier in the season.

Embiid finished Sunday’s game with 22 points, a season-high 14 rebounds, and two blocks, though he acknowledged some fatigue.

“I feel OK,” Embiid said. “I was a little tired out there, but I feel good.”

Pacers

Pacers rookie Kam Jones has yet to make his season debut, but he was active Friday night as Indiana continues to bring the second-round pick along cautiously. Coach Rick Carlisle said there was value in Jones being part of the game-day routine, even without seeing the floor, according to beat writer Tony East.

For now, Jones remains a developmental piece as the Pacers balance growth with rotation stability.