Ja Morant’s Status Explained: When He Could Return for Memphis

The Memphis Grizzlies will be without star guard Ja Morant tonight against the Denver Nuggets as he continues to recover from a right calf strain. The injury occurred on November 15 during a matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the team confirmed he would be re-evaluated two weeks after November 17, ruling him out for the November 24 contest.

Morant’s Current Status

Morant has already missed five games since the injury. He underwent testing and treatment before the Grizzlies announced the two-week re-evaluation window. According to outlets like AP and ESPN, calf strains require careful management due to the risk of reinjury, especially for explosive players like Morant.

Through 12 games this season, Morant has averaged 17.9 points and 7.6 assists, providing critical playmaking for Memphis. His absence leaves the Grizzlies with limited ball-handling depth and forces the team to rely on makeshift perimeter options.

Impact on the Grizzlies

The Grizzlies are also missing Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe), Ty Jerome (calf), and Javon Small (toe). That leaves Vince Williams Jr. and Cam Spencer as primary creators. Without Morant, the team has leaned on Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. to shoulder more offensive responsibility.

Memphis has gone 2–3 without Morant, including back-to-back wins that provided momentum heading into tonight’s matchup. Still, facing the defending NBA champions without their franchise point guard is a major challenge.

Adjustments While Morant Recovers

The coaching staff has experimented with new lineup combinations, emphasizing ball movement, quicker decision-making, and off-ball actions to reduce pressure on inexperienced guards. Defensive intensity and pace changes have helped the team stay competitive.

At 6–11, Memphis needs consistency to avoid slipping further in the Western Conference standings. Morant’s return will be crucial for the Grizzlies to regain offensive rhythm and climb back into playoff contention.

Looking Ahead

The team expects to reassess Morant around December 1. While his long-term outlook remains positive, the Grizzlies are determined not to rush him back. Calf strains can worsen if not fully healed, and Memphis is prioritizing his health over short-term gains.

For now, fans should not expect to see Morant suit up tonight. His rehab continues as the Grizzlies prepare to battle the Nuggets without their lead playmaker.