The Memphis Grizzlies are set to have star player Ja Morant in their lineup for the final leg of their European tour, despite ongoing trade rumors. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo confirmed that Morant would have a minutes restriction but was trending toward being able to play. Morant has been participating in practices and recovering from a calf contusion that kept him out of the previous game against the Magic in Berlin.
Joining Morant on the court will be Spain’s Santi Aldama, who has overcome a calf issue that had made him questionable for the matchup. Aldama shone in the game versus the Magic, scoring 18 points and making four three-pointers, and will continue to bolster the Grizzlies as they look to improve upon their recent performance.
The Grizzlies, who saw a promising start to their last game against the Magic where they led by as much as 20 points in the first half, ultimately fell 118-111 in Germany. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with an impressive 30-point performance, while young talents Cedric Coward and GG Jackson combined for 32 points. On the other side, Orlando’s Paolo Banchero contributed significantly with 26 points and 13 rebounds, helping the Magic secure a victory and extend their recent success.
With the Grizzlies struggling over their last nine games—having won just two—the team faces mounting pressure, particularly against opponents like the Magic, who are vying for their first three-game win streak since early December. Memphis has struggled on the road, currently at 1-5 in their last six games outside of Memphis.
In a notable injury report, Ja Morant and Santi Aldama are both available, while the Grizzlies will be without Brandon Clarke, Zach Edey, Ty Jerome, and Scotty Pippen Jr. The Magic will be missing key players, including Jalen Suggs and Colin Castleton.
As the Grizzlies prepare to take on the Magic in London, fans will be looking for a turnaround in performance. The matchup, which is the NBA’s 10th regular-season game played in London, promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams look to make their mark and secure crucial wins ahead of the trade deadline. The game will be available on Amazon Prime Video and local radio stations.
Memphis holds a slight historical edge over Orlando, having won seven of their last nine contests, but both teams are eager to come away with a decisive victory in this international showcase.