The Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies are facing significant roster challenges as they prepare to meet Friday at FedExForum in Memphis, TN. Both teams will be without multiple starters, impacting rotations and game strategy.
Utah will be missing Keyonte George (right ankle), Jaren Jackson Jr. (left knee), Walker Kessler (left shoulder), and Jusuf Nurkic (nose) due to various injuries. Oscar Tshiebwe is listed as questionable while in concussion protocol.
Lauri Markkanen remains the Jazz’s primary scoring option, averaging 26.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game.
Memphis enters the game with a long list of absences. Ja Morant (left elbow), Santi Aldama (right knee), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (right fifth finger), Brandon Clarke (right calf), Walter Clayton Jr. (right calf), Cedric Coward (right knee), Zach Edey (left ankle), Ty Jerome (right calf), and Scotty Pippen Jr. (left great toe) are all out or doubtful.
This leaves the Grizzlies relying on secondary scorers such as Jaylen Wells and Cam Spencer to fill the void. Morant’s absence is particularly notable, as he averages 19.5 points and 8.1 assists per game.
The Jazz are coming off a 119-135 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers but had previously dominated the Sacramento Kings 121-93.
Memphis has dropped consecutive games, falling 113-114 to Golden State and 116-122 at Denver.
Both teams are struggling in the Western Conference standings, with Utah at 18-38 and Memphis at 20-33.
In prior meetings this season, the Jazz won a close contest 130-126 on December 12, while the Grizzlies claimed a 137-128 victory on December 23.
