The Memphis Grizzlies are set to face the Houston Rockets in a crucial Western Conference matchup. Houston is sitting at 32-14, in second place, while Memphis is right behind them at 31-16, in third. Both teams have been playing some solid games this season, but it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster recently. The Grizzlies are coming off a tough 143-106 loss to the Knicks, ending a six-game winning streak. The Rockets, on the other hand, have won the last four games and are looking to extend that streak. However, with injuries affecting both teams, the big question tonight is: Will Ja Morant be able to play?
Heading into the game, the Grizzlies have a major injury concern. Ja is currently listed as questionable for tonight’s game due to right shoulder soreness. It’s been a season filled with some injury concerns for Morant. On the other hand, the Rockets have their own injury concerns. Alperen Sengun is questionable with a calf strain, and Steven Adams is on day-to-day with an ankle injury.
What does Ja Morant’s potential absence mean for the Grizzlies?
Ja Morant’s presence has been huge for Memphis, averaging 20.3 points, 4.2 rebounds and 7.5 assists this season. He’s their playmaker, and his absence could significantly change how they approach this game. Without him, Memphis will likely focus more on its defense, which has been solid all season. They’ve ranked in the top ten for defensive rating, so it’ll be important for them to use that strength to slow down the Rockets.
Dec 13, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts during the second quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Jaren Jackson Jr. has been the anchor for Memphis, averaging 22.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. He is crucial in this regard, especially with his ability to protect the rim and make an impact on both ends. Desmond Bane has also stepped up, averaging 20.4 points over his last ten games, and he’ll be vital for the Grizzlies if Morant can’t go tonight.
For Houston, if Morant is out, they’ll look to take advantage of the situation. The Rockets have been averaging 113.9 points per game, with Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun playing at a high level lately. Green has been leading the charge with 25.3 points over his last 15 games and Sengun has also been a force, contributing 19.7 points over his last 10 games.
Sengun’s status is crucial for the Rockets. If he can’t go, it significantly weakens their frontcourt. Both Jalen and Alperen have been key to the Rockets’ offensive attack. Houston also excels at offensive rebounding, which could give them extra chances to score and wear down the Grizzlies if they can dominate the glass.
Depth Charts of both the teams
Memphis Grizzlies depth chart
Position
Starter
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
PG
Ja Morant (DD)
Scotty Pippen Jr.
Luke Kennard
Zyon Pullin
Yuki Kawamura
SG
Desmond Bane
Luke Kennard
Jaylen Wells
John Konchar
Zyon Pullin
SF
Jaylen Wells
Jake LaRavia
GG Jackson
John Konchar
Luke Kennard
PF
Jaren Jackson Jr.
Santi Aldama
GG Jackson
Jake LaRavia
John Konchar
C
Zach Edey
Brandon Clarke
Jay Huff
Jaren Jackson Jr.
Santi Aldama
Houston Rockets depth chart
Position
Starter
2nd
3rd
4th
5th
PG
Fred VanVleet
Amen Thompson
Aaron Holiday
Reed Sheppard
Jalen Green
SG
Jalen Green
Cam Whitmore
Dillon Brooks
Amen Thompson
Reed Sheppard
SF
Amen Thompson
Jae’Sean Tate
Cam Whitmore
Dillon Brooks
Tari Eason
PF
Dillon Brooks
Tari Eason
Jae’Sean Tate
Cam Whitmore
Jeff Green
C
Alperen Sengun (DD)
Steven Adams (DD)
Jock Landale
Jeff Green
N’Faly Dante
As we get closer to game time, all eyes will be on Ja Morant’s injury status. If he plays, the Grizzlies will have their best shot at keeping up with Houston’s high-powered offense. The question is: Can the Grizzlies pull off a win against the Rockets, even if they’re missing some key players? Or will Houston continue their dominance over Memphis this season? It’s going to be a nail-biter!
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