Ja Morant Sidelined for Grizzlies vs Clippers Showdown
The Memphis Grizzlies will be without their star guard Ja Morant for the highly anticipated matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers on March 7, 2026. Morant remains out with a left elbow UCL sprain, continuing his absence from the court as the team navigates a challenging season.
Impact of Morant's Absence on Memphis
Morant has been sidelined for several weeks, leaving a significant void in the Grizzlies' lineup. Before his injury, he played only 20 games this season, averaging an impressive 19.5 points and 8.1 assists per game. His absence has forced Memphis to rely heavily on younger players and role players to step up.
Key contributors in his absence include GG Jackson and Jaylen Wells, who have taken on larger roles. Additionally, players like Scotty Pippen Jr. and Cam Spencer are handling increased minutes in the backcourt to compensate for the loss of Morant's ball-handling and scoring prowess.
Game Details and Team Records
The game is scheduled to tip off at 8 p.m. ET at FedExForum in Memphis. The Los Angeles Clippers enter with a 30-32 record, while the Grizzlies stand at 23-38. Both teams are striving to stay in contention for the Western Conference play-in tournament, making this a crucial late-season clash.
Injury Updates for Both Teams
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report: The Grizzlies have six players listed as unavailable for the game. Alongside Morant, Brandon Clarke is out with a calf injury, Zach Edey and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope are out for the season with ankle and finger injuries respectively, and Santi Aldama and Taj Gibson are sidelined for injury management and reconditioning.
With these absences, Memphis will depend on a rotation featuring Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty Jerome, Cam Spencer, GG Jackson, Jaylen Wells, and Cedric Coward. Recent roster changes have also seen the addition of players like Taylor Hendricks.
Los Angeles Clippers Injury Report: The Clippers face their own challenges, with Bradley Beal out for the season due to a hip injury, John Collins out with an arm issue, and Yanic Konan Niederhauser out for the season with a foot injury. Darius Garland is listed as day-to-day with a toe injury.
Kawhi Leonard leads the Clippers, averaging 27.9 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, supported by Kris Dunn, Brook Lopez, and Jordan Miller. Garland's potential availability could provide an additional guard option for Los Angeles.
Details on Ja Morant's Elbow Injury
Morant suffered the left elbow UCL sprain on January 21, 2026, and has been undergoing rehabilitation since. The Grizzlies provided an update on March 5, indicating that while he is showing improvement, he still experiences discomfort. He has been ruled out for at least two more weeks, with a reevaluation scheduled for later in March, making a return before late March unlikely.
Morant remains under contract with Memphis on his extension, and there have been no reports of trade discussions, highlighting his long-term role with the franchise.
Strategic Implications for the Game
Morant's absence significantly impacts the Grizzlies' offensive dynamics, removing their primary scorer and playmaker. The team has had to distribute these responsibilities, leading to a reliance on rebounding, where they average 44.1 rebounds per game, to stay competitive. However, Memphis faces challenges with a −131 scoring differential this season, complicating game management without their star.
For the Clippers, this situation presents an opportunity to capitalize on Memphis's weakened lineup. If Garland is cleared to play, Los Angeles could enhance their backcourt options alongside Leonard, bolstering their push for a play-in position.
Broader Context and Team Outlook
Both teams are dealing with multiple injuries, affecting their rotations and strategies. The Grizzlies' reliance on younger players offers a glimpse into their future development, while the Clippers aim to leverage their experience to secure a playoff spot. This game will test the depth and resilience of both squads as the season progresses.
