Injury-Riddled Grizzlies Face Nuggets in Crucial Western Conference Clash

The Memphis Grizzlies travel to Ball Arena on February 11, 2026, to take on the Denver Nuggets in a highly anticipated NBA matchup. This game is heavily influenced by injury reports, with both teams navigating significant roster challenges. Denver enters with stronger form and a higher standing in the Western Conference, while Memphis continues to adapt to the absence of several star players.

Comprehensive Injury Report for Both Teams

Roster availability stands as the defining factor in this contest. The Grizzlies are notably short-handed, missing their starting point guard and multiple frontcourt contributors. This forces lineup adjustments and increased minutes for role players. Denver also deals with injuries, but its primary scoring and playmaking group remains largely intact.

Memphis Grizzlies Injury Details

Memphis faces severe shortages, particularly in the paint. The following players are confirmed out:

Ja Morant (PG) - Suffering from a left elbow UCL sprain, he is scheduled for re-evaluation in approximately three weeks.
Zach Edey (C) - Out for several weeks due to a left ankle stress reaction.
Brandon Clarke (PF/C) - Expected back around mid-to-late February with a right calf strain.
Santi Aldama (C/PF) - Undergoing right knee injury management, not anticipated to return before February 20.

Additionally, Walter Clayton Jr. (PG) and Cedric Coward (SG) are listed as doubtful with right calf contusion and right knee soreness, respectively. Memphis is likely to deploy smaller lineups and emphasize guard play to compensate.

Denver Nuggets Injury Status

Denver's injury list is extensive but less disruptive to its core lineup. Players out include Aaron Gordon (PF) with a right hamstring strain, Peyton Watson (SF) with a similar issue, and Tamar Bates (SG). Spencer Jones (SF) is questionable due to concussion protocol. However, key players like Nikola Jokić (C), Jamal Murray (PG), and Christian Braun (SG) are probable and expected to play despite minor ailments. Denver should maintain its usual offensive structure despite these absences.

Expected Rotations and Key Players

For Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. will serve as the defensive anchor and primary scoring option. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope brings perimeter defense and experience, while Cam Spencer has assumed a larger playmaking role, leading the team in assists. Other rotation players include GG Jackson, Jaylen Wells, John Konchar, Ty Jerome, Scotty Pippen Jr., Jock Landale, Braxton Key, and Vincent Williams Jr. The Grizzlies are expected to run a guard-focused lineup centered around Jackson Jr., Caldwell-Pope, and Spencer.

Denver's core features Nikola Jokić, who continues to orchestrate the offense with near triple-double averages, and Jamal Murray as a secondary ball handler and scorer. Depth is provided by Christian Braun, Bruce Brown, Cameron Johnson, Tim Hardaway Jr., Jonas Valančiūnas, Julian Strawther, Jalen Pickett, Zeke Nnaji, and Curtis Jones across various positions.

Head-to-Head and Team Statistics

Denver leads the season series 1-0 after a 125-115 victory on November 24, 2025, where Jamal Murray scored 29 points and Jock Landale led Memphis with 26. In terms of team stats, Memphis holds a record of 20–32, averaging approximately 115.3 points per game, 45.8% field-goal percentage, 35.0% three-point percentage, 28.7 assists, and 45.3 rebounds. They operate more from the perimeter without Morant but maintain rim protection through Jackson Jr.

Denver boasts a record of 34–20, with averages around 120.3 points per game, 49.4% field-goal percentage, 39.5% three-point percentage, 28.0 assists, and 42.6 rebounds. Their style revolves around Jokić's passing, supported by consistent shooting.

Matchup Impact and Betting Outlook

Memphis must find ways to replace Morant's scoring and manage limited interior size. Jackson Jr. is poised for a heavy workload, while Spencer and Caldwell-Pope will shoulder increased offensive responsibility. Outside shooting will be critical for Memphis to remain competitive.

Denver, despite losing defensive range without Gordon and Watson, retains sufficient scoring and structure to control the pace and attack inside. Betting markets list Denver as roughly a 13.5-point favorite with a projected total near 238.5 points. If Denver's key players are available, their efficiency and interior presence give them a clear advantage. Memphis will rely on strong guard play and accurate three-point shooting to keep the margin close in this challenging road setting.