Sat Feb 07 02:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Blazers Look to Capitalize on Rebuilding Grizzlies as Scoot Henderson Returns

The Story:
The Portland Trail Blazers are set to face the Memphis Grizzlies at home tonight, February 6, 2026, as Scoot Henderson is expected to make his season debut after recovering from injury. The Blazers, currently on a six-game losing streak, hope to leverage the significantly altered and injury-riddled Grizzlies roster to regain momentum. Memphis, having made significant trades at the deadline, is in what the article describes as a “complete rebuild” and dealing with a lengthy injury report.

Key Points:

  • Scoot Henderson is expected to make his season debut for the Trail Blazers tonight.
  • The Memphis Grizzlies traded Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, acquiring Walter Clayton Jr., Taylor Hendricks, Kyle Anderson, and three first-round picks.
  • The Grizzlies also briefly acquired Eric Gordon and a second-round pick, then waived Gordon.
  • Ja Morant has been sidelined since January 24th with a UCL sprain and was playing below his usual standards prior to the injury.
  • The Blazers traded Duop Reath to the Atlanta Hawks for Vit Krejci, a three-point shooter.
  • The Blazers are currently on a six-game losing streak.
  • The Trail Blazers injuries: Damian Lillard, Kris Murray, Mattise Thybulle, Deni Avdija are Out.
  • The Grizzlies injuries: Santi Aldama, Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty jerome, Zach Edey, Ja Morant, Brandon Clarke are Out.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Grizzlies are undergoing a significant rebuild, evidenced by their trade deadline moves and reliance on youth.
  • Injuries are heavily impacting both teams, particularly the Grizzlies, creating an opportunity for the Blazers.
  • The Blazers are hoping that the return of Scoot Henderson will bring stability to their offense and reduce turnovers.
  • Portland’s front office has opted for a cautious approach, making marginal moves instead of sweeping changes, signaling a long-term strategy.

Impact Analysis:

The Memphis Grizzlies’ decision to rebuild, coupled with Ja Morant’s injury and off-court issues, suggests a potential downturn for the franchise in the immediate future. This rebuild likely means the Grizzlies are focused on accumulating assets and developing young talent, sacrificing short-term success for long-term potential. The Blazers, on the other hand, are aiming to find immediate improvements within their existing roster, hoping Henderson’s return and Krejci’s shooting can alleviate their current struggles. Whether this pans out depends on the development of their younger players and how well they integrate new acquisitions.

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