The Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies face significant roster challenges as they prepare to meet Friday at FedExForum in Memphis, TN. Both teams will be without multiple starterswhich affects rotations and game strategy.
Utah will receive Keyonte George (right ankle), Jaren Jackson Jr. (left knee), Walker Kessler (left shoulder) and Jusuf Nurkic (nose) are missing due to various injuries. Oscar Tshiebwe is listed as questionable while in the concussion protocol.
Lauri Markkanen remains the Jazz’s top scoring option, averaging 26.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game.
Memphis comes into the game with a long list of absentees. Ja Morant (left elbow), Santi Aldama (right knee), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (right fifth finger), Brandon Clarke (right calf), Walter Clayton Jr. (right calf), Cedric Coward (right knee), Zach Edey (left ankle), Ty Jerome (right calf) and Scotty Pippen Jr. (left big toe) are all out or questionable.
This leaves the Grizzlies dependent on secondary scorers like Jaylen Wells and Cam Spencer to fill the void. Morant’s absence is especially notable, as he averages 19.5 points and 8.1 assists per game.
The Jazz are coming off a 119-135 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, but previously dominated the Sacramento Kings 121-93.
Memphis has dropped consecutive games, 113-114 to Golden State and 116-122 to Denver.
Both teams are struggling in the Western Conference standings, with Utah at 18-38 and Memphis at 20-33.
In previous meetings this season, the Jazz won a close match 130-126 on December 12, while the Grizzlies claimed a 137-128 victory on December 23.
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