The Memphis Grizzlies are set to face off against the Sacramento Kings in a crucial Western Conference clash on Friday night. Memphis is currently at 23-11 record, sitting comfortably next to the top of the Western Conference, whereas Sacramento ranks 12th, with a 5-19 record. As we enter the game one of the biggest questions is whether Ja Morant, who has been off the court for several games, will suit up tonight or not. So, without any further ado, let’s dive into the latest injury updates and the Grizzlies’ current lineup heading into this crucial matchup.

Memphis head into this game with several key players on the injury list. Starting with Ja Morant, his Grade 1 AC joint sprain has kept him sidelined for multiple games, and now he is considered as week-to-week. Apart from him, the Grizzlies have additional concerns. Marcus Smart is out with a right index finger injury. Furthermore, players like Zach Edey, Jake LaRavia, Brandon Clarke, and Yuki Kawamura are questionable. Additionally, Santi Aldama is sidelined with a left ankle sprain. On the Sacramento side, the team is without Keegan Murray, who is dealing with an ankle injury. Despite these challenges, both teams have relied on their star players to step up, and this game should be no different.

Can the Kings Capitalize on Memphis’ Injuries?

Ja Morant’s absence has been a significant challenge for the Grizzlies, but the team has managed to stay competitive in his absence. Memphis is 9-5 without their star point guard this season, with players like Desmond Bane stepping up as the team’s leading scorer, averaging 16.3 points per game. In Morant’s absence, the Grizzlies have maintained an offense which is the highest in the league, averaging 123.2 points per game. Jaren Jackson Jr. has also been a crucial contributor, both offensively and defensively, leading the team with 22.1 points per game and 1.7 blocks per game. Even with their star player sidelined, Memphis’ supporting cast has been able to carry the load effectively, especially with contributions from Marcus Smart, if healthy, and other key players like Luke Kennard and Jake LaRavia.

Defensively, the Grizzlies have remained one of the league’s top teams, holding opponents to the best three-point percentage in the league at 33.1%. Memphis’ rebounding has also been a strong suit, ranking second in the NBA with 48.6 rebounds per game. However, the team’s depth will be tested against a talented Sacramento squad. Without Ja Morant, Memphis will need to continue playing strong and rely on their defense to keep them in games.

Given the injury struggles of the Grizzlies, one has to wonder if the Kings can capitalize on this moment. Sacramento’s defense has been inconsistent, ranking 17th in points allowed per game. If the Kings can exploit Memphis’ defensive lapses, particularly from beyond the arc, they might have a chance to keep up with one of the league’s highest-scoring teams.

De’Aaron Fox has been a key player in the Kings’ recent success, averaging 29.5 points per game over his last six outings. Fox’s ability to score, combined with the playmaking of Domantas Sabonis, makes the Kings a strong offensive team. However, the Kings have struggled with three-point shooting this season, ranking 24th in the league in three-point attempts and shooting percentage. This issue will be particularly challenging against a Grizzlies team that boasts the best three-point defense in the league. The potential absence of Keegan Murray, could further complicate matters. With Murray’s absence, defensive guard Keon Ellis may need to step up, especially in guarding Memphis’ perimeter players.

Grizzlies and Kings Depth Chart

Memphis Grizzlies Depth Chart:

Sacramento Kings Depth Chart:

As we approach this Friday night clash between the Grizzlies and Kings, the central question remains: can the Kings take advantage of Memphis’ injury woes to secure a much-needed victory, or will the Grizzlies continue to roll, even without Morant and other key contributors? With both teams facing challenges, this game is sure to be an intriguing test for both sides.