Ja Morant Sidelined for Grizzlies vs Bulls Game on March 16, 2026
The Memphis Grizzlies will be without their star guard Ja Morant when they take on the Chicago Bulls on March 16, 2026. Morant has been officially ruled out due to a left elbow UCL sprain, continuing his recovery from an injury that has kept him off the court since late January. This absence adds to the challenges for Memphis, which is already grappling with several other injuries across its roster.
NBA Injury Report Confirms Morant's Status
The NBA injury report, released at 5:45 PM ET, confirmed that Morant will not play in the 8:00 PM ET game at the United Center in Chicago. He is recovering from a sprain in the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his left elbow, which involves a partial tear in the ligament that stabilizes the joint. Recovery from such an injury can take weeks or even months, depending on its severity. Although Morant had a scheduled re-evaluation in mid-March, he was not cleared to return, and the Grizzlies are continuing to hold him out as he completes his rehabilitation.
Memphis Grizzlies Injury Report Details
Memphis enters the game with multiple players unavailable, significantly impacting their rotation. The team will rely on available players to fill the minutes left by these absences. Notably, Jahmai Mashack remains available despite playing with a nasal fracture. Here is a breakdown of the Grizzlies' injury status:
- Ja Morant: Out - Left Elbow; UCL Sprain
- Santi Aldama: Out - Right Knee; Injury Management
- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: Out - Right 5th Finger; Surgery Recovery
- Brandon Clarke: Out - Right Calf; Strain
- Zach Edey: Out - Left Ankle; Surgery Recovery
- Scotty Pippen Jr.: Out - Right Great Toe; Sesamoiditis
- GG Jackson: Doubtful - Right Foot; Soreness
- Ty Jerome: Doubtful - Left Shoulder; Contusion
- Walter Clayton Jr.: Questionable - Right Ankle; Sprain
With Morant out, Jaren Jackson Jr. is expected to take on a larger role, and Cedric Coward could also see increased minutes. Coward has been averaging 13.3 points per game recently, providing a potential offensive boost.
Chicago Bulls Injury Report Overview
The Chicago Bulls are also facing injury challenges, with several key players ruled out for the game. The team will depend on younger players to step up and handle larger roles in their absence. Here are the details from the Bulls' injury report:
- Zach Collins: Out - Right 1st Toe; Surgery
- Noa Essengue: Out - Left Shoulder; Surgery
- Jaden Ivey: Out - Left Patellofemoral; Pain
- Isaac Okoro: Out - Right Patellofemoral; Pain
- Anfernee Simons: Out - Left Ulnar Styloid; Fracture
- Collin Sexton: Questionable - Left Fibular Head; Contusion
Additionally, Nick Richards is listed as probable with a low back issue, which could provide some relief for the Bulls' frontcourt.
Key Players to Watch in the Matchup
With both teams missing multiple rotation pieces, the game may hinge on which available players can step up and perform. For Memphis, Jaren Jackson Jr. will be crucial on defense, while players like Jaylen Wells may need to handle more minutes. On the Chicago side, Matas Buzelis, who is averaging 15.9 points per game, will be looked upon for offensive production. Josh Giddey has also been shooting well recently, making 2.6 three-pointers per game, which could be a factor in spacing the floor.
As the game tips off at 8:00 PM ET in Chicago, fans can expect a competitive matchup where depth and adaptability will be tested. The outcome may ultimately come down to which group of available players executes better under the pressure of a depleted roster.
