
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 31, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts with guard Marcus Smart (36) during the second half against the Sacramento Kings at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Dec 31, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts with guard Marcus Smart (36) during the second half against the Sacramento Kings at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
The Phoenix Suns‘ 2023-24 regular season is progressing in an underwhelming fashion. They went into the campaign with high expectations and were thought to be contenders for the top of the Western Conference standings. But with the season almost reaching its halfway mark, the Suns currently occupy a mid-table spot. It’s fair to say that the Suns have underachieved. However, the team would look to kick-start their turnaround with a victory in their next game.
The Suns are scheduled to tip off against the Memphis Grizzlies at 8:00 PM, Eastern Time at the FootPrint Arena in Phoenix. In a game of high stakes, how will the two Western Conference rivals line up?
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Suns vs Grizzlies: Predicted lineups and Injuries
The game promises to be an enthralling watch. Both teams are desperate for wins after an underwhelming start to the season. However, the Suns are in a much better place than their opponents. The 25-game suspension of Ja Morant has had a significant impact on the Grizzlies’ season. But, in a hammer blow for Grizzlies’ fans, the availability of Ja Morant remains uncertain for tonight’s game. They have listed him as questionable due to shoulder soreness.

USA Today via Reuters
Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Apart from Ja, the Grizzlies will also miss the services of Derrick Rose (thigh), Brandon Clarke (Achilles) and Steven Adams (knee). The Suns also have to deal with various injuries on their roster. Kevin Durant has been sidelined for tonight’s game due to a hamstring injury. The trio of Bol Bol (ankle), Nassir Little (knee) and Damion Lee (knee) remain sidelined for the game against the Grizzlies.
Despite having to deal with several injuries, the Suns remain a formidable opponent. They could start the game with Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, Grayson Allen, Chimezie Metu and Jusuf Nurkic. On the other hand, The Grizzlies could line up with Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Bismack Biyombo.
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Phoenix Suns vs Memphis Grizzlies: Predictions
The game is finely poised, as both teams go into the game with a victory. Both the teams would aim to carry the positive momentum with a victory. The Suns go into the game as slight favorites. According to Bet MGM Sportsbook, the Suns are predicted to win the game by four points. The moneyline odds indicate that Phoenix is favored with a line of -176, while Memphis is the underdog with a line of +147.
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While the bookmakers in Vegas have predicted a Suns victory, the absence of Kevin Durant might have a massive impact. Durant has been Phoenix’s best and most consistent performer this season, and his absence could significantly influence the outcome. Despite having the home advantage, the Grizzlies might pull off a surprise win over the Suns.
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