The Memphis Grizzlies have been dealt a major blow ahead of their showdown against the Los Angeles Clippers, as Ja Morant has been ruled out due to right knee soreness. With the Grizzlies aiming for their 12th win in 14 games, the absence of their star point guard raises questions about how they will compete against one of the NBA’s toughest defenses.
Ja Morant’s Struggles with Injuries
Morant has been on and off the injury report all season, missing 21 games so far. The Grizzlies have managed a 14-7 record without him, but this game presents a particularly tough challenge. He was listed as questionable earlier in the day, but the team has now confirmed that he will sit out the final game before the All-Star break.
Alongside Morant, Vince Williams Jr. is also out due to knee soreness. Other missing players include Marvin Bagley III (ankle), Johnny Davis (not with the team), and Cam Spencer (thumb surgery).
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Grizzlies vs. Clippers: Can Memphis Compete Without Their Star?
The Los Angeles Clippers (29-23) are coming into this game eager to bounce back after losing two of their last three games. With Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Norman Powell leading the way, they boast one of the league’s best defenses, making them a formidable opponent for the Grizzlies (36-17).
Without Morant, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins will have to reshuffle his lineup. Luke Kennard has started in previous games when Morant was sidelined, and Scotty Pippen Jr. and Desmond Bane are also expected to take on bigger roles in the backcourt.
Betting Odds and Predictions
- Spread: Clippers -5.5
- Over/Under: 235.5 points
- Moneyline: Clippers -220, Grizzlies +180
With Memphis playing on the second night of a back-to-back, fatigue could play a major factor. Meanwhile, the Clippers are well-rested and looking to capitalize on Memphis’ missing pieces.
Key Factors to Watch
- Grizzlies’ Fast Pace vs. Clippers’ Strong Defense – Memphis plays one of the fastest tempos in the league, but without Morant, their offense could struggle against LA’s gritty, slow-paced defense.
- Desmond Bane’s Leadership – With Morant out, Bane will need to step up offensively and take control of the game.
- Clippers’ Response – After lackluster efforts against Indiana and the Lakers, LA is looking to make a statement with a dominant performance.
Grizzlies’ Road Ahead
Following this game, Memphis will enter the All-Star break before resuming their season on February 20 against the Indiana Pacers. The big question remains: Can the Grizzlies continue their momentum despite ongoing injuries?
Final Prediction
With Morant sidelined and the Grizzlies dealing with fatigue, the Clippers have the edge in this matchup. Expect LA to control the game and pull off a convincing win, but don’t count Memphis out completely—they’ve proven time and again they can battle through adversity.
Stay tuned for post-game updates and analysis!
