Grizzlies Face Clippers Amid Injury Concerns with Bane

LOS ANGELES, California – The Memphis Grizzlies are looking to bounce back after a tough loss as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night. Initially hampered by injuries throughout the 2023-24 season, the Grizzlies secured the ninth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, selecting standouts Zach Edey from Purdue and Jaylen Wells from Washington State.

Entering this season, the Grizzlies have assembled a formidable roster capable of contending in the highly competitive Western Conference. With a record of 7-3 in their last 10 games, the Clippers are currently riding a four-game winning streak, presenting a significant challenge for Memphis.

Despite the optimism surrounding the Grizzlies’ improved roster, injury issues are a lingering concern. Star guard Desmond Bane was recently downgraded to questionable due to lower back soreness. This season, he has played 58 games, averaging 19.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.5 assists while shooting 48.6% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range.

Bane’s status remains uncertain as he was initially listed as questionable but was later cleared to participate in Friday’s game against the Clippers, according to a report from Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.com. This will provide a much-needed boost to a team already coping with injuries to key players, including Ja Morant, who is sidelined for a third consecutive game due to a hamstring injury.

The Grizzlies’ depth will be tested further with multiple players needing to step up in Morant’s absence. Should Bane be unable to play, backup guards Scotty Pippen Jr. and Luke Kennard will likely shoulder a greater load on offense. In the 11 games Morant has missed this season, Bane averaged 48.6 fantasy points per game, solidifying his importance to the team’s performance.

As they prepare for tip-off at 10:30 p.m. EST on NBA TV, the Grizzlies will need to find a way to counter the Clippers’ momentum and continue their push for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. The matchup adds another layer of urgency given Memphis’ earlier loss to the Sacramento Kings, which has left them in a tight race behind the Nuggets and Rockets.

In an encouraging sign for the Grizzlies, reserve forward Santi Aldama is returning after missing several games due to a calf strain. Aldama has been a crucial component of Memphis’s bench and his presence is expected to help turn around the team’s performance as they approach the postseason.

With the playoffs on the horizon, Bane will be one to watch closely in the lead-up to Friday night’s contest. His ability to remain healthy and perform at a high level is vital for the Grizzlies as they seek to secure their spot among the top teams in the Western Conference.