The Phoenix Suns, riding a wave of defensive success, face a challenging road test against the depleted but gritty Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. This matchup, set for the FedExForum, pits a Suns team on the second night of a back-to-back against a Grizzlies squad battling a severe injury crisis.
Team Form and Injury Crisis Headlines
The Phoenix Suns arrive in Memphis with a solid 21–15 record, having won six of their last eight games. Their recent success has been built on a formidable defense, which ranks second in the league in defensive rating over that stretch. They lead the NBA in steals and have excelled at controlling the game's pace. Despite the fatigue of a back-to-back, they have handled such situations well this season.
In stark contrast, the Memphis Grizzlies, at 16–20, are navigating a nightmare injury scenario. Their rotation has been completely reshaped, with a staggering 10 players listed on the injury report. Star guard Ja Morant is questionable with a right calf contusion, having already missed the last two games. Forward Jaren Jackson Jr. is probable despite an illness, while Vince Williams Jr. and Santi Aldama are also questionable.
The list of confirmed absentees is long and damaging: Zach Edey, Cedric Coward, Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty Jerome, Brandon Clarke, and John Konchar are all out. This leaves Memphis with critically thin frontcourt depth and severely limited lineup options. The Suns, meanwhile, have a relatively clean bill of health, listing only Jalen Green and Jamaree Bouyea as out. Grayson Allen is available after returning from knee issues.
Key Stats and Players to Watch
A look at the team statistics reveals the contrasting styles. The Suns average 114.8 points per game (20th) but allow only 112.8 (6th best). The Grizzlies score slightly more at 115.7 points per game but struggle defensively, allowing 116.6 points. Memphis also shoots a lower 45.5% from the field compared to Phoenix's 46.6%.
For Phoenix, the offensive engine remains Devin Booker, who leads the team with 25.7 points per game and is the primary option in clutch moments. Collin Gillespie has been a steady contributor, while the defensive trio of Dillon Brooks, Royce O’Neale, and Mark Williams will be crucial against a limited Memphis attack.
Memphis will rely heavily on Jaren Jackson Jr. for scoring if he plays. The team's competitiveness, even without Morant, has been fueled by strong rebounding and a deliberate pace, spreading minutes among bench players to keep games close in the final stages.
Game Details and Betting Outlook
The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 p.m. ET (7:00 p.m. CT). Fans in Memphis can watch on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast, while Phoenix viewers can tune into Arizona’s Family 3TV / AZFamily Sports. The game will be streamed on Suns+ and broadcast nationally on NBA League Pass. Radio coverage is available on 92.9 FM ESPN in Memphis and 98.7 FM in Arizona.
Sportsbooks favor the visiting Suns, installing them as 3.5 to 4.5-point favorites. The total points over/under is set between 232.5 and 235.5. Phoenix has been strong as a favorite lately, covering the spread consistently with a 7–3 record in their last 10 games. While Memphis is tired and short-handed, their ability to rebound and stay in games suggests they will compete. However, Phoenix's disciplined defense is expected to be the decisive factor in securing a road victory.
