The Los Angeles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies face critical injury concerns as they prepare to meet Friday at 8:00 PM ET at FedExForum. Both teams are entering the matchup with recent struggles and significant absences impacting rotations.
The Clippers will be without Bradley Beal (left hip fracture), Bogdan Bogdanovic (left hip contusion), Derrick Jones Jr. (right knee sprain), and Chris Paul, who is not with the team. Jordan Miller remains questionable with back soreness.
These absences place more pressure on James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac to carry the scoring and playmaking responsibilities. Harden is averaging 26.9 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.6 rebounds over 21 games, while Leonard contributes 25.9 points and 5.5 rebounds per contest.
Memphis is also dealing with key players sidelined. Ja Morant (right calf strain), Brandon Clarke (right knee surgery recovery), Ty Jerome (right calf strain), and Scotty Pippen Jr. (left great toe surgery) are out, with Javon Small unavailable due to a left turf toe.
The Grizzlies will rely heavily on Jaren Jackson Jr., who is averaging 17.8 points and 5.2 rebounds, and Cedric Coward, contributing 13 points per game. Morant’s absence leaves a major gap at point guard, where his 17.9 points and 7.6 assists per game have been central to Memphis’ offense.
The Clippers come in on a one-game winning streak after a 115-92 victory over the Atlanta Hawks but are 6-16 overall this season.
The Grizzlies are 9-13 and lost 119-126 to the San Antonio Spurs in their last outing. Friday’s game represents an opportunity for both teams to stabilize momentum in a tightly contested Western Conference.
Memphis won their first meeting of the season, with the Grizzlies winning 112-107 in Los Angeles on November 28.
