Ja Morant Officially Out for Grizzlies vs Kings Matchup
The Memphis Grizzlies will be without their star point guard, Ja Morant, when they take on the Sacramento Kings on February 23, 2026. Morant has been definitively ruled out on the official injury report, eliminating any possibility of a last-minute return for this crucial game.
Injury Details and Recovery Timeline
This absence is not a minor setback. Morant is currently dealing with a left elbow UCL sprain, a significant injury that affects his ability to pass, shoot, and control the ball effectively. As the team's primary ball-handler and leading scoring option, his absence creates a substantial void in the Grizzlies' offensive schemes.
The current recovery timeline suggests Morant could be sidelined until early March, provided his rehabilitation progresses without any unexpected complications. This means fans should anticipate him missing several more games before making a potential return to the court.
Impact on Memphis Grizzlies' Strategy
Without Morant, the Grizzlies must undergo a strategic overhaul. The team is not structured to rely solely on one player generating the majority of offensive plays. Instead, they will need to adopt a more collaborative approach.
Key players like Marcus Smart and Desmond Bane are expected to shoulder increased responsibilities. The offense will likely shift towards a system emphasizing shared playmaking and perimeter passing, rather than depending on Morant's dynamic drives and transition plays.
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report
The Grizzlies are grappling with multiple absences beyond Morant, further complicating their roster for this game:
- Ja Morant – left elbow UCL sprain (Out)
- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – right pinky finger surgery (Out)
- Santi Aldama – right knee injury (Out)
- Brandon Clarke – right calf strain/soreness (Out)
- Cedric Coward – right knee posterior capsule sprain (Out)
- Zach Edey – left ankle stress reaction (Out)
- Kyle Anderson – right knee soreness (Out)
This extensive injury list positions Memphis as the underdog in the upcoming matchup, largely due to the depletion of their key personnel.
Sacramento Kings Injury Report
The Kings are also facing their own challenges with several key players unavailable:
- Domantas Sabonis – knee/back issues post-meniscus surgery (Out for season)
- Zach LaVine – right hand/finger surgery (Out for season)
- De’Andre Hunter – eye surgery (Out for season)
- Dylan Cardwell – ankle injury (Out)
- Isaiah Stevens – inactive (two-way status)
With Sabonis out for the season, Sacramento will rely more heavily on their guard play. De’Aaron Fox is expected to lead the offense, with a heightened focus on perimeter strategies to compensate for the absence of their big men.
Strategic Implications of Morant's Absence
Morant's absence significantly alters the dynamics of the game. For Memphis, it means losing their main offensive driver, reducing pressure at the rim and in fast-break situations. This could stifle their scoring efficiency and overall pace.
For Sacramento, defensive planning becomes more straightforward. The Kings can concentrate on limiting Memphis's shooters and implementing effective perimeter switches, without the constant threat of Morant's explosive drives.
To remain competitive, the Grizzlies will need a balanced and collective effort from their remaining roster, as they navigate this game without their primary offensive weapon.
