Ja Morant Sidelined for Grizzlies' Clash with Hawks, Return Pushed to March 27
The Memphis Grizzlies will be without their star guard Ja Morant for their upcoming road game against the Atlanta Hawks on March 23, 2026. Morant continues to recover from a left elbow UCL sprain, and the team has announced that his return is now expected no earlier than March 27. This marks a delay from earlier projections, as Memphis is taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation.
Injury Timeline and Current Status
Morant first experienced discomfort in his elbow around March 15, initially raising hopes for a potential return by March 21. However, further medical evaluations, including imaging conducted on March 22, revealed that the injury has not fully healed. This confirmation led to the decision to keep him out of the Atlanta matchup, extending his absence from the court.
The guard has already missed several games due to this issue, most notably the Grizzlies' 124-101 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on March 21. With no recent update clearing him for action, Morant remains officially unavailable for the game at State Farm Arena, where Memphis will face a tough opponent without their key player.
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report Details
Beyond Morant, the Grizzlies are dealing with multiple injuries as they head into this contest. The team's injury report for March 23, 2026, highlights several key absences:
- Ja Morant (PG): Out with an elbow UCL sprain, estimated return March 27.
- Taj Gibson (PF): Game-time decision due to a foot issue.
- Cam Spencer (PG): Game-time decision with a back problem.
- Jahmai Mashack (SG): Out with an ankle injury, expected back March 25.
- Cedric Coward (F): Out for personal reasons until March 25.
- Brandon Clarke (C/PF): Out with a calf injury, estimated return March 27.
Additionally, Santi Aldama is out for the season with a knee injury, and Zach Edey remains unavailable following surgery. The roster has undergone recent changes, including the February trade that sent Jaren Jackson Jr. to another team, further limiting Memphis's options on the court.
Game Outlook: Atlanta Hawks vs Memphis Grizzlies
The Atlanta Hawks enter this matchup with a strong 39-32 record, holding the sixth position in the Eastern Conference. They have been particularly effective at home and are favored by 12.5 points, with the total points line set at 240.5. Atlanta is focused on securing a playoff spot, especially after moving on from Trae Young and implementing roster adjustments.
For the Grizzlies, who come in with a 24-46 record and sit 12th in the Western Conference, this game is part of a rebuilding phase. Despite inconsistent results, contests like this remain crucial for evaluating rotation decisions and player roles. Without Morant, Memphis will rely on players like GG Jackson and Jaylen Wells to step up offensively. Brandon Clarke could also contribute if he is cleared in time.
Statistically, the Grizzlies average 115.5 points per game, while the Hawks allow 116.5 points per game, suggesting a potentially high-scoring affair. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7:30 PM ET on March 23, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
Memphis continues to manage Morant's recovery with care, emphasizing clear progress before his return. As the team navigates this challenging season, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates on his condition and the Grizzlies' performance in his absence.
