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via Imago

The Grizzlies are buzzing. Before losing Sunday’s Lakers encounter, they had won four straight games and currently sit in the second spot of the West rankings. Obviously, a big reason for their early success has been the availability of Ja Morant, something they were desperately missing last season. But as they take the floor to face the Warriors tomorrow, their star high flyer might not be present for the highly-anticipated clash!

Yes, as per the Grizzlies’ latest injury report, Ja is questionable to play. The reason? Lower back soreness. Well, he has been in and out of the lineup this season, already missing 11 games so far because of injury concerns. But it’s still far better than his mere nine appearances last year.

Sure enough, the Grizzlies transform into a completely different team with him on the floor as he is averaging 22 points and over eight assists. That’s why his status for tomorrow is extremely crucial, especially because Marcus Smart is also likely to miss the game. He is doubtful to play because of left shoulder soreness.

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Meanwhile, there are several players who’ve already been ruled out, including Colin Castleton and Yuki Kawamura with two-way transfers, Jay Huff and Vince Williams Jr. with ankle sprains, and GG Jackson II with a right fifth metatarsal repair.

On the Warriors’ side, Moses Moody could miss his 3rd straight game as he remains doubtful due to left knee tendinitis. However, they’re likely to get a massive boost as their latest acquisition, Dennis Schroder, is expected to make his debut tomorrow after the big trade.

Grizzlies and Warriors’ Depth Chart

What’s your perspective on:

Can the Grizzlies maintain their momentum without Ja Morant against the Warriors?

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With Ja questionable to play, this is what the Grizzlies’ depth chart looks like:

PositionStarters2nd3rd
PGJa Morant (Q)Marcus Smart (D)Scotty Pippen Jr.
SGDesmond BaneLuke KennardJohn Konchar
SFJaylen WellsJake LaRavia
PFJaren Jackson Jr.Santi Aldama
CBrandon ClarkeZach Edey

Of course, a lot will depend on Ja and Smart’s final status. If Ja suits up, the starting lineup is likely to remain the same as the last game, because it has proven successful in the past. But the Grizz can face a depth problem with multiple players out for the encounter.

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Meanwhile, the Warriors’ depth chart looks a lot stronger with Schroder in the lineup:

PositionStarters2nd3rd
PGStephen CurryDennis SchroderLindy Waters III
SGBuddy HieldBrandin PodziemskiPat Spencer
SFAndrew WigginsGary Payton IIGui Santos
PFJonathan KumingaDraymond GreenKyle Anderson
CKevon LooneyTrayce Jackson-DavisQuinten Post

Of course, it remains to be seen how Steve Kerr will use Schroder in the rotation. But his presence surely gives them another ball handler to rely on and an elite scorer. Dennis is having a career year, averaging 18.4 points and nearly seven assists.

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Well, the last time these two sides met back in November, the Warriors came out on top. However, the Grizzlies were playing without Morant. But tomorrow’s game is on the Grizzlies’ home court and Ja’s presence could completely shift the momentum in their favor.

Whose side are you on?

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Can the Grizzlies maintain their momentum without Ja Morant against the Warriors?