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NBA playoffs: Grizzlies star Ja Morant starts Game 3, scores 45 in loss to Lakers

Portland Trail Blazers v Memphis Grizzlies MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - APRIL 04: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies handles the ball during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers at FedExForum on April 04, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies series just got a lot more interesting.

Grizzlies star Ja Morant started Game 3 after missing Game 2 with a hand injury. He scored 45 points and helmed a late comeback attempt in the Grizzlies' 111-101 loss Saturday at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The Lakers have 2-1 series advantage with Game 4 on Monday (10 p.m. ET, TNT).

Morant sustained the injury in the fourth quarter of Game 1, falling hard after a drive and landing on his right hand. He left the game and did not return in a 128-112 loss for Memphis.

The Grizzlies managed to grind out a win in Game 2 with Tyus Jones starting in Morant's place, thanks to a strong defensive effort, but Morant's status for the rest of the series was still a major storyline in a relatively even first-round series.