Desmond Bane's hot start to the 2022-23 season came to an unfortunate screeching halt.
After appearing in each of the Grizzlies' first 12 games, Bane first appeared on the injury report with right toe soreness ahead of the team's trip to face the Wizards on Nov. 13.
Bane again appeared on the injury report ahead of Memphis' meeting with New Orleans on Nov. 15 and the guard underwent further testing in order to reveal the nature of his injury, which will hold him out for an extended time.
What does this mean for Bane and the Grizzlies? Here's everything we know about his injury and when he may return to the court.
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What is Desmond Bane's injury?
Further evaluation of Bane's injury determined that he suffered a Grade 2 sprain of his right big toe and a sesamoid injury. According to the Grizzlies, Bane suffered the injury against the Timberwolves on Nov. 11.
The @memgrizz announced the following medical update. pic.twitter.com/DfuU5SEULL
— Grizzlies PR (@GrizzliesPR) November 15, 2022
Through 12 games, Bane has posted averages of 24.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game. The 24-year-old sharpshooter is hitting 3.8 3s per game at an insane 45.1 percent clip.
In Bane's absence, the Grizzlies will look to sharpshooter John Konchar and rookie wing Jake LaRavia to provide production on both ends of the floor.
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How long will Desmond Bane be out?
On Dec. 7, the Grizzlies re-evaluated Bane, who after progressing in his rehab had "been cleared to begin a gradual re-loading protocol." Given a three-to-four-week timeline to return, the shooting guard appears to be ahead of schedule.
On Dec. 23, Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes reported that Bane has been upgraded to 'questionable' for Friday's game against the Phoenix Suns, giving the Grizzlies a boost ahead of their first Christmas Day game two days later in San Francisco.
Memphis Grizzlies have upgraded Desmond Bane (toe sprain) to questionable for Friday’s matchup with the Phoenix Suns.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) December 23, 2022
Grizzlies schedule 2022-23
Here are the next five games on Memphis' schedule:
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | TV channel |
| Dec. 23 | at Suns | 10 p.m. | ESPN |
| Dec. 25 | at Warriors | 8 p.m. | ABC, ESPN |
| Dec. 27 | vs. Suns | 8 p.m. | — |
| Dec. 29 | at Raptors | 7:30 p.m. | — |
| Dec. 31 | at Pelicans | 8 p.m. | — |