The Memphis Grizzlies take on the New York Knicks in a cross-conference showdown. Both teams will put their winning streaks on the line for this one. The Grizzlies have much at stake, as Ja Morant and Co. have won each of their last six games! Their most recent win came against the Jazz, 125-103.
Moreover, Jaren Jackson Jr. was the standout performer on the night finishing the game with 28 points. On the other hand, Morant assumed the facilitator role as the point guard dished out 7 assists on the night. Prior to the game, Morant was listed as probable due to illness as he missed the Pelicans game before.
So, the Grizzlies faithful have one question: Whether Ja Morant will suit up for tonight’s matchup? Well, as of now Morant is not on Memphis’ injury report. This indicates that he will be available for tonight’s game, which is a huge boost for the Grizzlies. Additionally, the Grizzlies point guard has been pretty impressive for his team when available. He has averaged 20.7 points, 7.7 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.
While Morant is available the Grizzlies have been somewhat bitten by the injury bug. With a significant number of players on their injury report. Whereas the Knicks also have their fair share of trouble. It will be interesting to see which team comes out on top when the ball goes in the air tonight. In the meantime, let’s take a look at Memphis’ injury report prior to the clash.
Memphis Grizzlies injury report before the Knicks showdown
The Grizzlies have several notable names out of contention for the Knicks games including Marcus Smart. The point guard is set to miss tonight’s game due to a finger injury. So far, Smart has averaged 9.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists and has been a key rotation player for Memphis. Furthermore, forward Santi Aldama is on day-to-day, due to an illness. He will be a game-day decision for Memphis.
Jan 22, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) drives to the basket as Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) defends during the third quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Moreover, Vince Williams Jr. has also been ruled out from the matchup. He is out due to an ankle injury. Forward Jake LaRavia is questionable for the New York matchup with a back issue. Lastly, Cam Spencer will also not be available for tonight’s matchup. The 24-year-old is out with a thumb injury and will be re-evaluated in the coming weeks.
Memphis Grizzlies’ predicted starting five for tonight
Memphis is coming into this game after a great performance against the Jazz. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey were particularly brilliant in the paint scoring 28 and 19 points, respectively. How these two play tonight will be a key factor for the Grizzlies. Moreover, Morant will also be looking to clock in more minutes tonight as they try to take down the Knicks.
Here’s how the Grizzlies can line up:
Positions
Starters
PG
Ja Morant
SG
Desmond Bane
SF
Jaylen Wells
PF
Jaren Jackson Jr.
C
Zach Edey
Overall, this will be a great watch as two hotter teams from their conference battle it out on the court. Positional matchups will be the deciding factor in this game. Zach Edey will have to do well in rebounding the ball for Memphis whereas Morant will have to facilitate the game. However, the Knicks won’t go down without a fight with Brunson and Co. having the quality to pull a game in their favor on any given night. Let’s wait and watch!
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