Grizzlies' Adams out at least 4 more weeks after stem-cell injection in knee

Memphis Grizzlies center Steven Adams will be re-evaluated in four weeks after receiving a stem-cell injection to treat a PCL sprain in his right knee, the team announced Thursday.

A four-week timeline would likely sideline Adams, who has already missed six weeks, through the rest of the regular season, which ends April 9.

Adams' extended absence is the latest blow to a reeling Grizzlies squad that has already lost three straight games. Forward Brandon Clarke will miss the rest of the 2022-23 campaign after suffering an Achilles tear Friday against the Denver Nuggets, while star guard Ja Morant remains away from the club as the NBA investigates the 23-year-old for holding what appeared to be a gun in a live video on social media.

The 29-year-old Adams is averaging 8.6 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists through 42 games this season, but registered 13 points and 14.3 rebounds per game in his last three contests - against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns - before sustaining the injury.

Despite not being able to play, the New Zealand-born center has emerged as a veteran voice in Memphis' locker room. During a recent players-only meeting, Adams spoke out and implored the Grizzlies to display better discipline and avoid going out on the road, reported Shams Charania of The Rally. The Grizzlies are 26-5 in Memphis this season but just 12-21 away from home.