The Memphis Grizzlies will step onto the court at the Frost Bank Center on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with a familiar and daunting challenge: navigating another game without their superstar, Ja Morant. What was initially seen as a minor issue has now become a prolonged absence, testing the team's depth and resilience in a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
Ja Morant's Extended Absence and Injury Timeline
Ja Morant is officially listed as OUT for the clash against the San Antonio Spurs, dealing with a right calf strain. This marks the eighth consecutive game he will miss. The injury occurred on November 15 during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers and was diagnosed as a mild Grade 1 strain.
Despite his absence, the Grizzlies have shown remarkable grit, compiling a 5-2 record over this stretch. The team has scheduled a reevaluation for Morant once their current road trip concludes. While there is early speculation about a possible return around December 12, the franchise is taking a cautious approach, especially with a player whose game relies so heavily on explosive athleticism.
Grizzlies' Injury Crisis and Unconventional Lineups
The situation in Memphis goes far beyond just Morant. The team's injury report is lengthy, forcing head coach Taylor Jenkins to get creative. Brandon Clarke (knee), Ty Jerome (calf), Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe), and Javon Small (toe) are all sidelined. Center Jock Landale is questionable with left ankle soreness.
This guard shortage has led to an unexpected solution: Vince Williams Jr. operating as the primary playmaker. In the last seven games, Williams has risen to the occasion, averaging an impressive 9.4 assists. His increased role will be crucial against a Spurs defense that has struggled without its own anchor.
Spurs Also Depleted, Setting Stage for Supporting Cast Battle
This matchup has lost much of its star power. San Antonio will be without their generational talent, Victor Wembanyama, who is out with a calf issue. Rookie Stephon Castle is also sidelined with a left hip flexor injury. With both teams missing their cornerstones, the game transforms into a strategic duel between supporting casts.
The Spurs have allowed 27.9 assists per game without Wembanyama, a vulnerability Williams Jr. and the Grizzlies are poised to exploit. Memphis comes in with momentum, having won four of their last five road games. Their previous meeting on November 18 saw Williams dish out 9 assists, though the Spurs secured a 111-101 victory.
Morant's Season and the Road Ahead
Before his injury, Ja Morant was averaging 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. However, he was in the midst of a significant shooting slump, connecting on only 35.9% from the field and 16.7% from three-point range. His eventual return is seen as the potential catalyst to boost the 9-12 Grizzlies, currently holding the ninth seed in the West, into a more secure playoff position.
Tonight's 8:00 PM ET tip-off will be less about highlight-reel plays and more about execution, adaptability, and which team's role players can seize the opportunity. For the Grizzlies, their ability to stay competitive through disciplined ball movement and collective effort continues to be the defining story of their season.
