Minnesota Timberwolves vs Memphis Grizzlies: Injury Report and Game Preview for February 2, 2026
The Minnesota Timberwolves are set to visit the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on Monday, February 2, 2026, in a Western Conference matchup where injuries loom large for both squads. The availability of several key players could directly sway the result, adding an element of unpredictability to this NBA contest.
Injury Concerns Dominate Pre-Game Narrative
Minnesota enters the game with a better record and recent success in this rivalry, but they face potential absences that might hamper their offensive firepower. Memphis, on the other hand, continues to grapple with multiple injuries, forcing younger players to step into expanded roles as the team navigates a challenging season.
Detailed Injury Report for Both Teams
Minnesota Timberwolves Injury Report:
- OUT: Terrence Shannon Jr. (left foot injury), Enrique Freeman (two-way, not expected to play), Rocco Zikarsky (two-way, out, reducing frontcourt depth).
- QUESTIONABLE: Anthony Edwards (back spasms, likely a game-time decision; his absence would impact scoring), Julius Randle (left thumb soreness, could miss the game, removing another primary offensive option).
- EXPECTED TO PLAY: Rudy Gobert, Mike Conley, Naz Reid, and remaining core rotation players.
If Edwards and Randle do not play, Minnesota will rely heavily on Gobert's defensive presence in the paint, steady playmaking from Conley, and increased scoring contributions from Reid and the guard unit.
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report:
- OUT: Ja Morant (left elbow UCL issue, main playmaker unavailable), Jaren Jackson Jr. (left quad contusion, ruled out after initial questionable status), Zach Edey (left ankle, stress-related injury), Santi Aldama (right knee, still unavailable), Brandon Clarke (calf strain, remains sidelined), John Konchar (neck contusion, out), Scotty Pippen Jr. (left great toe surgery recovery, not cleared to return).
- QUESTIONABLE: Ty Jerome (calf strain, could add ball-handling depth if available).
- EXPECTED TO PLAY: GG Jackson, Vince Williams Jr., Olivier-Maxence Prosper, and available guards and rotation players.
With several starters sidelined, Memphis will need to emphasize effort, rebounding, and perimeter shooting to remain competitive against a stronger opponent.
Head-to-Head Record and Recent Results
The historical rivalry between these teams shows Minnesota with a slight edge:
- All-time regular-season series: Minnesota leads 58–55.
- Last three seasons: Minnesota leads 5–2.
- Most recent meeting (January 31, 2026): Timberwolves won 131–114 at FedExForum, utilizing their depth and shooting to secure a decisive victory.
Team Stats Entering the Matchup
Minnesota Timberwolves:
- Record: Approximately 31–19 (.612).
- Western Conference standing: 5th.
- Recent form: Four straight wins.
- Points per game: About 115–117.
Minnesota has established itself as one of the stronger offensive teams this season, bolstered by Gobert's defensive anchor, transition scoring, interior size, and consistent perimeter shooting.
Memphis Grizzlies:
- Record: Approximately 18–29 (.391).
- Western Conference standing: Around 12th.
- Recent form: Six straight losses.
- Points per game: Roughly 112–114.
Memphis has faced defensive struggles, exacerbated by the absence of multiple frontcourt players. While the team plays with energy, maintaining consistency has been a challenge.
Key Factors That Could Decide the Game
Minnesota's strategy will hinge significantly on the status of Edwards and Randle. If both are unavailable, the offense may become less dynamic, placing greater importance on half-court execution. For Memphis, success will likely depend on outside shooting and rebounding, with strong performances from available guards and wings crucial to keeping the game close.
Pace is another critical element. Minnesota is expected to push the tempo and attack the interior, whereas Memphis might aim to slow the game down and limit scoring runs.
On paper, Minnesota holds the advantage due to its superior record, roster depth, and recent form. However, injuries introduce uncertainty, especially with Memphis missing key players like Morant, Jackson Jr., and Edey. For the Grizzlies to stay competitive, they will need efficient scoring and disciplined defense from their available roster. Any last-minute injury updates, particularly regarding Edwards and Randle, could dramatically alter the game's dynamics.
