The Memphis Grizzlies are gearing up for their match against the San Antonio Spurs on December 2, 2025, but they’ll once again be missing their star player, Ja Morant, who is sidelined due to a right calf strain. This strain, initially thought to be a short-term issue, has resulted in Morant missing eight straight games since it occurred during a contest against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 15. Despite this setback, the Grizzlies have managed to maintain a commendable 5-2 record without him, proving their depth and adaptability in a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
In Morant’s absence, Memphis has relied heavily on their supporting cast, with Vince Williams Jr. stepping up to fill the void left by their leading playmaker. Williams has averaged 9.4 assists over the last seven games, showcasing his ability to manage the game effectively. The team’s ability to flourish under such circumstances has turned their injury woes into a testament of resilience, as they navigate their way through challenging matchups.
The Grizzlies’ current struggle is mirrored by the Spurs, who are also missing key players. San Antonio is without their own standout, Victor Wembanyama, due to a calf issue, as well as Stephon Castle, who is dealing with a left hip flexor injury. The clash expected tonight at 8:00 PM ET promises to be more about strategic execution than the flash of star players.
Before his injury, Morant was averaging 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and leading the team with 7.6 assists across 11 games, albeit struggling with his shooting efficiency at 35.9% from the field and 16.7% from beyond the arc. The Grizzlies, currently sitting at 9-12 and ninth in the Western Conference, are eagerly anticipating his return, projected around December 12, provided there are no setbacks.
In addition to Morant, the Grizzlies’ lineup is notably thin, with players like Brandon Clarke, Ty Jerome, Scotty Pippen Jr., and Javon Small also unavailable due to various injuries. This situation has pushed Memphis to experiment with unconventional lineups, which could prove advantageous against a Spurs team allowing an average of 27.9 assists per game in the absence of Wembanyama.
While the Grizzlies face significant challenges with injury, their recent success shows that unity and teamwork can offset the loss of star power. The matchup against the Spurs will not only be a test of skill but also a chance for Memphis to display their growing cohesiveness as they look to build momentum heading into the heart of the season.