The Western Conference has some of the most classic rivalries on the NBA calendar every year. One of them is the mighty clash between the Denver Nuggets and the Memphis Grizzlies. Both teams currently have a record of seven wins so far and well, who wouldn’t want more?
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Nikola Jokic is reportedly leading the MVP race. The Nuggets will do everything to boost the Serbian superstar’s presence. They want him to shine brighter in the league. On the other hand, the Grizzlies’ center Zach Edey is turning out to be a major name in the squad. The 22-year-old Canadian seems to finally get his much-deserved recognition after a rough start to his NBA career.
The Grizzlies must improve from their last two games to beat the Nuggets on Sunday night. Memphis sits eighth in the Western Conference standings. Thus, they need a solid strategy to overcome Jamal Murray and his team. Meanwhile, Denver holds sixth place, boosting their confidence ahead of the clash. The game will commence at 6 PM (ET) on November 17.
Before that, let’s check the injury reports. It will give us a hint about who might have an added edge in the game.
Nuggets vs Grizzlies: Injury Report
Interestingly enough, the Nuggets and Grizzlies, both have four players who won’t be on the court for them. So, who are they?
Denver Nuggets injury report
Their 3x MVP, Serbian 6’11” giant Nikola Jokic has been running the show for the Nuggets since day 1 of the 2024/25 season. He is currently leading the league in rebounds and assists, and savage replies in post-game pressers. However, the 29-year-old may not be there on the floor on Sunday. He missed the last game for personal reasons and is expected to skip the Memphis game too.
Nikola Jokic is out (personal reasons) for tonight’s Denver Nuggets game against the Memphis Grizzlies. Jokic, a leading MVP candidate, has averaged 29.7 points, 13.7 rebounds and 11.7 assists this season.
On the other hand, Vlatko Cancar is probable for Sunday due to a right ankle sprain he’s been attending to. Meanwhile, Aaron Gordon is out for the game and is said to miss a couple of weeks of action as the right calf sprain aggravated on Monday against the Raptors, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported. Sadly enough DaRon Holmes II will miss the entire season following the surgery on his Achilles tendon.
Memphis Grizzlies injury report
First, Ja Morant is most likely to miss the game against the Nuggets on Sunday. He partially dislocated his hip and undergoes weekly assessments. Meanwhile, Marcus Smart has an illness and remains doubtful for the game. On the other hand, Cam Spencer‘s ankle complication will keep him out of Sunday’s matchup. The fans expect his health report to arrive in three weeks. At the same time, GG Jackson II‘s foot injury has put him out of the league until January, so, of course, he too won’t be on the floor.
Depth Charts
Denver Nuggets depth chart
| Position | Starter | 1st Rotation | 2nd Rotation |
| PG | Jamal Murray | Russell Westbrook | Trey Alexander |
| SG | Christian Braun | Julian Strawther | Jamal Murray |
| SF | Michael Porter Jr. | Julian Strawther | Hunter Tyson |
| PF | Peyton Watson | Vlatko Cancar (DD) | Hunter Tyson |
| C | Nikola Jokic (DD) | Zeke Nnaji | Dario Saric |
Memphis Grizzlies depth chart
| Position | Starter | 1st Rotation | 2nd Rotation |
| PG | Scotty Pippen Jr. | Luke Kennard | Marcus Smart (DD) |
| SG | Marcus Smart (DD) | Jaylen Wells | Luke Kennard |
| SF | Desmond Bane | Vince Williams Jr. | Santi Aldama |
| PF | Jaren Jackson Jr. | Santi Aldama | Jake LaRavia |
| C | Brandon Clarke | Zach Edey | Jay Huff |
The Nuggets and Grizzlies are ready to clash in what promises to be a thrilling game. Injuries may shape the contest, but both squads boast immense talent. This matchup could bring surprises. Fans are in for a treat as these Western Conference rivals battle it out!