Memphis Grizzlies DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Luke Kennard (foot) has been ruled out for at least the first week of the 2024-25 regular season by head coach Taylor Jenkins. Kennard is battling foot soreness sustained during preseason action last week. Memphis has three games scheduled for the first week, starting with a matchup against Utah on Wednesday. John Konchar could see more time on the court in Kennard's absence, although the Grizzlies have their regular backcourt healthy for the start of the season, leaving the bench guys with few opportunities to make an impact.

Memphis Grizzlies center/forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (hamstring) is expected to miss the team's season opener on Wednesday against the Utah Jazz. Head coach Taylor Jenkins said that the former Defensive Player of the Year will be out while he continues to deal with a hamstring injury. He is expected back later this week, so his absence shouldn't last that long. Santi Aldama would likely move into the starting power forward spot while Zach Edey and Brandon Clarke should both see increased opportunities.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. agreed to a four-year contract with the team. The 23-year-old spent time in the G League and the Los Angeles Lakers before ending up in Memphis last season. He appeared in 21 games for the Grizzlies, averaging 12.9 points and 4.7 assists. With Derrick Rose recently announcing his retirement, Pippen is now expected to operate as Ja Morant's backup this season. He'll likely make some appearances with the first five, giving him streaming potential at some point during the 2024-25 campaign.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (ankle) was forced to exit early during Monday's preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks. Morant twisted his ankle in the first half, but returned to the contest. However, he re-aggravated the issue in the second half and was forced to exit for the rest of the night. Further testing revealed that Morant has suffered a mild ankle sprain. Head coach Taylor Jenkins says the team plans to proceed with caution. However, Morant is expected to be fine for Opening Night. It's uncertain if Morant will play in Thursday's preseason game, but fantasy managers shouldn't have to worry about his availability heading into the regular season.

Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant (ankle) was limited to 18 minutes in Monday's preseason matchup against Dallas, but he escaped serious injury. Morant exited the action multiple times due to an ankle issue. However, Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins called it only a "minor little tweak." Morant himself said after the game he's "good," according to ESPN's Tim MacMahon. This is great news, considering Morant's injury history. He was in fine form in Monday's game, producing 13 points with four rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block in a 121-116 win.