The Memphis Grizzlies announced Monday, December 23, that forward Brandon Clarke sustained a Grade 2 right calf strain during the first quarter of Saturday’s home game against the Washington Wizards. Clarke is expected to be reevaluated in roughly three weeks.
Clarke has been a key contributor for the Grizzlies this season, averaging 11.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assists over 28 games while playing 29.6 minutes per contest. His absence leaves a notable gap in Memphis’ frontcourt rotation alongside Jaren Jackson Jr. and Santi Aldama.
Memphis holds a 13-16 record this season, struggling to maintain consistency both at home (6-8) and on the road (7-7). The Grizzlies dropped a 122-130 game to Washington before Clarke’s injury and are scheduled to face Oklahoma City, Utah, and Milwaukee in their next three matchups.
Jackson Jr. leads the team with 18.0 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, while Ja Morant averages 17.7 points and 7.5 assists. Aldama contributes 13.8 points and 6.6 rebounds, and Zach Edey adds 13.6 points with 11.1 rebounds, providing the Grizzlies with a solid inside presence.
The team will rely on depth pieces like Cedric Coward, Cam Spencer, and Jaylen Wells to step up during Clarke’s absence. Coward is averaging 13.4 points and 6.2 rebounds, Spencer contributes 12.3 points and 2.2 rebounds, and Wells adds 10.8 points with 5.7 rebounds.
Clarke’s Grade 2 calf strain typically requires a 2-4 week recovery period, aligning with the team’s plan to reevaluate him in three weeks.
