Grizzlies Battle Magic in Berlin Without Star Guard
The Memphis Grizzlies face the Orlando Magic in Berlin on January 15, 2026. This regular-season game marks an international showcase for both teams. However, Memphis enters the contest with a significant absence. Their starting point guard, Ja Morant, will miss his sixth consecutive game.
Morant's Injury Status and Recovery Timeline
Ja Morant continues to deal with a right calf contusion. He last played on January 2. This same calf issue previously sidelined him for ten games earlier this season. It has now forced him out for five more leading into the Berlin matchup.
Morant practiced recently and traveled with the team to Europe. This development created some uncertainty about his availability. Early injury listings had him marked as questionable. Final reports, however, confirmed he would not play against the Magic.
Head coach Tuomas Iisalo provided an update on Morant's potential return. The coach indicated Morant could be back in action on January 18 in London. This return depends on his recovery continuing as planned.
Grizzlies' Performance Without Their Star
The Memphis Grizzlies enter the Berlin game with a 17-22 record. They currently sit in 10th place in the Western Conference. The team has struggled to find consistency this season. Morant's frequent absences have contributed to this challenge.
In the 18 games Morant has played this season, the Grizzlies hold a 6-12 record. He averages 19 points and 7.6 assists per game. His shooting numbers, however, are down. Morant is posting career-low percentages from the field and from three-point range.
Several other guards and rotation players are also injured. This leaves Memphis thin in the backcourt once again without Morant.
Full Injury Report for Both Teams
Both the Grizzlies and Magic arrive in Berlin missing key players. Here is the complete injury report for the January 15 game.
Memphis Grizzlies:
- Ja Morant - Out (Right calf contusion)
- Zach Edey - Out (Left ankle stress reaction)
- Ty Jerome - Out (Right calf strain)
- Brandon Clarke - Out (Right calf strain)
- Scotty Pippen Jr. - Out (Left great toe surgery recovery)
Orlando Magic:
- Jalen Suggs - Out (Right knee MCL contusion)
- Collin Castleton - Out (Left thumb fracture)
Key Players to Watch in Berlin
With Ja Morant out, Jaren Jackson Jr. will take on a larger role for Memphis. He is expected to carry more responsibility at both ends of the floor. Orlando, meanwhile, gets a boost with the return of Franz Wagner. His presence helps stabilize the Magic's rotation.
There is ongoing talk about potential roster moves in Memphis. The NBA trade deadline falls on February 5. Some observers see Morant's careful handling as part of a bigger picture. His travel with the team suggests the Grizzlies still expect him back soon. For now, the focus remains on navigating the Berlin game without their star guard.
