Last year, the Grizzlies were among the bottom three teams in the Western Conference. Obviously, the biggest reason behind it was their injury woes, especially Ja Morant missing most of the season due to a labral tear in his right shoulder. But Ja’s return this year has single-handedly turned things around for the franchise. They are having an incredible season and sit at the third seed, with 38 wins. Unfortunately, their momentum could take a major hit tonight as Morant’s health raises concern once again ahead of the Spurs clash!

Turns out, Ja will not suit up tonight as he is dealing with right shoulder soreness. His status was initially questionable, and the team has now downgraded it to “out.” Of course, the Grizzlies are being extremely cautious because it’s the same shoulder that ended Ja’s season last year and had to get surgically repaired.

Ja Morant’s absence is a huge setback for the Grizzlies. He’s been their best player, putting up 20.9 points and over seven assists per game. Sure, his numbers have dipped from previous seasons, but just having him on the court forces defenses to adjust, opening up easier looks for his teammates. Without that advantage, things won’t be easy against Chris Paul and co.

Tonight’s game is massive for Memphis—they’re still reeling from a heartbreaking loss to the Knicks and desperately need a bounce-back win.

Yes, last night’s game was a nail-biter, and OG Anunoby delivered the dagger, sinking a game-winning three in the final seconds to break the Grizzlies’ hearts.

Ja Morant had the final shot to steal the win, but his layup didn’t fall, sealing the one-point loss for Memphis. He still put up 25 points, but it wasn’t enough to get his team over the hump.

And now, things are only getting tougher for the Grizzlies. Ja isn’t the only player sidelined tonight, adding even more pressure to an already shorthanded squad.

Three stars join Ja Morant in Injury Report against Spurs

Another major blow for the Grizzlies—Desmond Bane has been ruled out for tonight with left hip soreness. That’s one more reliable 18+ PPG scorer missing from the lineup, making things even harder for Memphis.

To make matters worse, Brandon Clarke’s status has also been downgraded from questionable to unavailable. He’s dealing with a lip laceration, but the good news? It’s not a serious issue, and he should be back soon.

Still, with Ja Morant and Bane both out, the Grizzlies have their work cut out for them tonight.

Meanwhile, Vince Williams Jr. is also sidelined with left knee soreness. Amid the multiple injury woes, the one silver lining is that Luke Kennard, who was questionable due to lower back soreness, has been upgraded to available. That gives the Grizzlies a solid three-point shooter to rely on.

Looking at the bigger picture, this situation might feel like deja vu for Memphis. Last season, injuries hit them hard, with 13 players sidelined toward the end of the year. Now, history seems to be repeating itself. Hopefully, they will not suffer a similar fate this year. As far as tonight goes, their focus will be on protecting home court by getting a win against the Spurs. Do you think they can get the job done without Ja Morant?