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Two Injuries Tell the Story of Portland’s First Loss

The image that may live on in this writer’s mind from the Portland Trail Blazers’ first loss of the 2026-27 season is a lonely one. At the 7:12 mark of the fourth quarter Thursday night, as the Memphis Grizzlies threatened…

By Conor Bergin · Blazer's Edge

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 1:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Injuries to Ja Morant and Robert Williams III heavily contributed to Portland's 124-103 loss to Memphis.
Ja Morant left the game in the fourth quarter with a left hamstring issue and will undergo evaluation.
Robert Williams III was sidelined prior to tip-off for left knee injury management.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Portland Trail Blazers suffered their first defeat of the season in a 124-103 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, largely impacted by key injuries. Star guard Ja Morant exited the game in the fourth quarter after feeling a twinge in his left hamstring, while backup center Robert Williams III was ruled out prior to tip-off due to precautionary knee management.

Trail Blazers head coach Micah Nori stated that Morant will undergo medical evaluation to determine the severity of his hamstring issue. The writer notes that Portland's offense and defense struggled significantly during reserve minutes without Williams, compounded by Morant's fourth-quarter departure against his former team.

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Two Injuries Tell the Story of Portland’s First Loss

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