With the 2017-18 NBA season eclipsing it’s halfway point, the Memphis Grizzlies’ struggles continue as they trudge along with a 17-31 record. Along with an early-season coach firing, there have been numerous injuries that have set this once hopeful team back, including an Achilles ailment to star point guard Mike Conley.
Now, after having been sidelined for over two months, the Grizzlies and Conley have reached an ultimatum to undergo season-ending surgery. According to Michael Wallace of Grizzlies.com, Memphis GM Chris Wallace notified season-ticket holders of Conley’s looming surgery. Wallace also added that the team and Conley examined all options but ultimately opted that undergoing the procedure was the best route.
Grizzlies GM Chris Wallace announces in email moments ago to MVP season-ticket holders that Mike Conley will require season-ending surgery "to smooth a small bone protrusion" in his left heel. Conley is expected to make a full recovery ahead of training camp.
— Michael Wallace (@MyMikeCheck) January 27, 2018
Grizz GM Chris Wallace to MVP season-ticket holders on Conley: "Mike has been extremely diligent as we pursued multiple different approaches to alleviate the pain before deciding surgery was the best solution."
— Michael Wallace (@MyMikeCheck) January 27, 2018
For a Grizzlies team teetering on the brink of implosion, the loss of Mike Conley for the season may force the franchise’s hand at a rebuild. Memphis is expected to be one of the more active teams with the trade deadline approaching so Conley’s surgery may have some ripple effects in that aspect too.
Now in his second year after inking a 5-year max contract worth $153M, Mike Conley’s devastating setback with his heel will surely be a disappointment.
Conley posted per-game averages of 17.1 points to go along with a career-low 4.1 assists in only 12 appearances this season. Breakout guard Tyreke Evans will look to continue his stellar job with ball-handling duties, while veteran Mario Chalmers should continue to see extended minutes off the bench.
