The Memphis Grizzlies face renewed uncertainty as they prepare for a road game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night. Their star point guard, Ja Morant, finds himself back on the injury list, casting a shadow over the team's immediate prospects.
Morant's Latest Ankle Setback
Ja Morant's return to the court has been disrupted once again. The guard, who just came back from a calf strain last Friday, sustained a left ankle injury during the Grizzlies' victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday, December 15. He played only 20 minutes and 58 seconds in that game, contributing 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists before exiting.
Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo described the issue as an ankle "tweak" and expressed hope that it is not a serious long-term problem. Morant's status for the upcoming game is officially listed as questionable. The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter when Morant stepped on another player's foot during the 121-103 win.
A Season Marred by Inconsistency and Injury
This latest setback is part of a frustrating pattern for the two-time All-Star. Morant had already missed time in the preseason with a sprain on the same ankle and was sidelined for ten consecutive games in mid-November due to a left calf strain. Consequently, he has appeared in only 14 games this 2025-26 season.
His performance metrics reflect his struggle to find rhythm. Morant is currently averaging 17.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. More concerning are his shooting percentages: a mere 35.7% from the field and 19.4% from the three-point range. For the Grizzlies to compete at a higher level, a return to Morant's elite offensive form is crucial.
Implications for the Grizzlies' Lineup and Odds
Morant's potential absence forces a significant reshuffle for Memphis. The team will already be without guard Cam Spencer, who is out for personal reasons. Spencer has been a key offensive contributor, scoring in double digits in his last ten games and shooting a remarkable 63.6% from beyond the arc.
If Morant cannot play, Vince Williams Jr. is the likely candidate to step into the starting lineup. The team's record with Morant this season stands at 5 wins and 9 losses, highlighting the challenges they've faced even with him on the court. The betting odds have shifted in response to the news; the Grizzlies, initially 8.5-point underdogs, are now listed at +7.5 points on DraftKings, indicating decreased confidence in their chances without a fully fit Morant.
As the Grizzlies await further medical evaluation, all eyes will be on the injury report. The team and its fans are left hoping this is merely a minor hiccup and not another chapter in a season defined by stops and starts for their franchise player.
