Sat Jan 24 00:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Grizzlies Hit Hard: Morant and Six Others Out Against Pelicans
The Story:
The Memphis Grizzlies are facing a significant challenge as they prepare to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, October 25, 2025. A staggering seven players have been listed as “out” for the game, including star point guard Ja Morant. The news was reported by Drew Hill, a Grizzlies beat writer for The Daily Memphian.
Key Points:
- Seven Memphis Grizzlies players are listed as “out” for the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 25, 2025.
- Ja Morant is among the players listed as out.
- Drew Hill of The Daily Memphian reported the news.
Critical Analysis:
The provided context reveals a pattern of Ja Morant’s availability being uncertain, particularly regarding international games. His absence from the Berlin showcase, despite the NBA’s promotion of the event, suggests potential conflicts between the team/player and the league’s marketing agenda. The repeated mentions of his London game status, with strings attached, hint at a managed return strategy, likely due to injury concerns or other undisclosed factors.
Key Takeaways:
- Ja Morant’s health and availability remain a recurring concern for the Grizzlies.
- The Grizzlies are facing a significant roster depletion, impacting their immediate performance.
- There’s potential conflict or at least carefully managed risk regarding Morant’s participation in events outside regular season games.
- The frequency with which his status is reported suggests heightened media scrutiny and fan anxiety surrounding Morant’s play time.
Impact Analysis:
The absence of seven players, including Ja Morant, will likely have a short-term impact on the Grizzlies’ performance, especially against the Pelicans. The Grizzlies may need to rely on younger players, and it will provide an oppurtunity to develop their bench. However, the persistent concerns about Morant’s availability could have longer-term implications for the team’s championship aspirations and market value. The team must demonstrate its ability to perform well without their star player. The ongoing uncertainty can also impact team morale and fan engagement.