The Raptors are in Memphis right now, taking on Ja Morant and the Grizzlies. Toronto is trying to break its eight-game losing streak, while Memphis is chasing its 13th win in 16 games. Both teams are battling hard, and it’s shaping up to be a high-stakes matchup. But the Grizzlies already have a problem. Santi Aldama, a key backup forward, went down early in the first quarter.

Early in the game, Aldama had to be helped to the locker room after struggling to put weight on his left ankle. The 23-year-old could undergo further testing to assess the injury. If he’s not cleared to come back, he’ll finish the night with just four points (2-3 FG) and three rebounds in three minutes.

Aldama (ankle) is listed as doubtful to return in Thursday’s matchup against the Raptors.

The 7-foot forward appeared to injure his ankle during a defensive possession in the first quarter. He stayed down while the Grizzlies kept playing on offense, but when Coach Taylor Jenkins came over to check on him, Aldama waved off the concern. Still, when he tried to get up, it was clear he couldn’t walk off on his own.

Aldama has been a key player for Memphis this season, averaging 13.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. He’s been a solid contributor and an early contender for Sixth Man of the Year. Let’s hope this injury isn’t too bad—Memphis definitely needs him!

The Grizzlies just can’t seem to shake the injury bug, something that’s been haunting them since last season. They’ve got all the potential to be one of the NBA’s deadliest teams when everyone’s healthy. But is Aldama in their long-term plans?

The Philadelphia 76ers could eye Santi Aldama

The Philadelphia 76ers‘ trade situation is still up in the air. After a rough start to the season, they’re not clear buyers ahead of the February deadline. But they aren’t quite ready to give up on the season either. With the big three healthy for the playoffs, the Sixers could make a run. It seems likely that Daryl Morey is leaning toward buying rather than selling at the deadline.

The biggest need for Philly has been the power forward spot. According to NBA Insider Jake Fischer, Memphis forward/center Santi Aldama could be on their radar. Fischer mentioned, “Santi Aldama is someone that I think will be available in Memphis for the right price.”

He added that Aldama could slide in next to Joel Embiid, playing both the four and small-ball five. While Aldama isn’t a current target for the 76ers, Fischer added, “Philly is open to acquiring someone making below $8 million…and someone who is eligible for a new contract this summer.”

Aldama, now in his fourth season at just 23, is having a breakout year. He’s averaging 14 points, eight rebounds, and hitting 39% from three. At $7.9 million, he fits Philly’s needs and budget perfectly, especially with the team willing to go deeper into the luxury tax for long-term growth.

It looks like Aldama could be the upgrade the ‘City of Brotherly Love’ need over other options like KJ Martin.