The Memphis Grizzlies will take on the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night without two key players, as the team announced that star point guard Ja Morant and forward Santi Aldama will miss the game due to illnesses. The absences deal a significant blow to the Grizzlies’ lineup.
Morant, Aldama Sidelined by Cold Symptoms
According to Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins, Morant and Aldama woke up with cold symptoms on the morning of the game. After an off day Thursday, the team had hoped the extra rest would help, but ultimately decided to keep both players out of action against the Pelicans.
“We had an off-day yesterday and they just reported some cold symptoms overnight. [They] woke up this morning. We opted for rest. Then, as the day went on, they’re definitely going to be out tonight. [We’re] hopeful for tomorrow. We’ll see how they feel.”
– Taylor Jenkins, Memphis Grizzlies Head Coach
The team has dealt with a string of illnesses impacting both players and staff in recent days. The hope is that with rest and recovery, Morant and Aldama can return to action quickly. Their status for upcoming games remains uncertain.
Morant’s Injury-Plagued Season Continues
For Morant, it’s the latest setback in what has been an injury-plagued 2024-25 campaign. The 25-year-old star has appeared in just 26 games for Memphis so far this season, although he still ranks second on the team in scoring at 21.2 points per game.
When healthy, Morant is the engine that makes the Grizzlies’ offense go. His dynamic playmaking and scoring ability helped lead Memphis to the second-best record in the Western Conference last season. But his inability to consistently stay on the court this year has been a major issue.
Aldama Breakout Season Interrupted
Aldama, meanwhile, has been enjoying a breakout fourth season for the Grizzlies. The 6-foot-11 forward is averaging career-highs across the board with 12.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game.
He exited Wednesday’s win over the Charlotte Hornets after just two quarters with an illness. Losing his size, rebounding, and improving offensive production is a major hit to Memphis’ frontcourt depth against a tough Pelicans team.
Next Man Up Mentality
With Morant and Aldama out, the Grizzlies will need other players to step up against New Orleans. Look for Tyus Jones to take over the starting point guard duties, with John Konchar and David Roddy likely to see increased minutes as well.
The “next man up” mentality has been a constant for Memphis this season with so many injuries to navigate. They’ve managed to stay afloat in the standings, but will once again have their depth tested.
Grizzlies, Pelicans Jockeying for Playoff Position
Friday’s matchup between Memphis and New Orleans is an important one in the Western Conference playoff race. The Pelicans currently sit just a half game ahead of the Grizzlies for the 4th seed.
With Morant and Aldama out, it tilts the odds in the Pelicans’ favor. New Orleans has been one of the NBA’s best home teams this season and will look to take advantage of a shorthanded Memphis squad.
But if any team is equipped to handle adversity, it’s the Grizzlies. They’ve consistently found ways to win games without their full complement of players. Against the Pelicans, they’ll need to summon that resilient spirit once again.
The Road Ahead
Following the matchup with New Orleans, the Grizzlies will have a quick turnaround as they head to Washington to face the Wizards on Saturday. It remains to be seen if Morant or Aldama will be able to suit up for that contest.
Regardless of when they return, the Grizzlies will have to manage their minutes and health carefully for the stretch run. Securing homecourt advantage in the playoffs could go a long way for a Memphis team with championship aspirations.
For now, they must navigate a crucial game against the Pelicans without two indispensable players. It’s an obstacle they’ve overcome before, and they’ll look to do it again Friday night in New Orleans.
