Grizzlies vs Jazz Prediction Preview, Injury Report, TV Channel and How to Watch

The Utah Jazz visit the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, December 12, at FedExForum in Memphis. The matchup tips off at 8:00 p.m. ET and features two Western Conference teams dealing with key injuries and rotation changes.

This Grizzlies vs Jazz prediction focuses on team form, injury impact, and matchup dynamics rather than odds. Memphis enters at 11–13, while Utah comes in at 8–15, looking to rebound after a difficult stretch.

Grizzlies vs Jazz Prediction and Game Context

Memphis has quietly stabilized after a slow start. The Grizzlies have won five of their last six games and continue to show strong defensive metrics at home. According to league tracking data, Memphis holds one of the best home-court efficiency swings in the NBA this season.

The biggest variable remains Ja Morant. He is listed as probable after missing 10 games with a left calf strain. Morant’s return boosts playmaking, but his conditioning and efficiency remain question marks after the extended absence.

Memphis will be without rookie center Zach Edey, who is sidelined for several weeks with a stress reaction in his ankle. His absence forces Jock Landale and Santi Aldama into expanded frontcourt roles. The team’s rim protection and rebounding take a noticeable hit without Edey on the floor.

Utah’s record does not reflect its competitive flashes. The Jazz have struggled against elite teams but continue to develop young contributors. Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier have taken on larger ball-handling responsibilities, while Ace Bailey has shown growth as a secondary scorer.

Lauri Markkanen returns after missing the previous game due to illness. He remains Utah’s offensive anchor, averaging 27.6 points per game this season with efficient shooting splits. His spacing and size present problems for a Memphis defense missing its primary interior stopper.

Utah will still be without Walker Kessler and Georges Niang. That limits rim protection and frontcourt depth, forcing the Jazz to rely more heavily on small-ball lineups and perimeter shooting.

How Injuries Shape the Grizzlies vs Jazz Prediction

The absence of Edey shifts Memphis toward a faster, perimeter-oriented style. The Grizzlies are most effective when generating points in transition, but they rank near the bottom of the league in fast-break scoring consistency.

Utah’s defense allows limited attempts at the rim but struggles when opponents penetrate and collapse the defense. This creates open looks from the non-restricted paint and beyond the arc. Memphis shooters such as Cam Spencer and Desmond Bane become central to the game plan.

On the other side, Utah’s offense leans heavily on Markkanen’s shot creation. Memphis has allowed a high volume of uncontested three-point attempts, which could keep the Jazz competitive if their shooters convert at an average rate.

Home court remains the strongest advantage for Memphis. The Grizzlies play with more pace and defensive intensity at FedExForum, while Utah historically shows sharper home-road splits due to altitude effects in Salt Lake City.

Final outlook: This Grizzlies vs Jazz prediction leans toward a close, competitive game shaped by injuries and lineup adjustments. Memphis holds the edge at home, but Utah’s scoring versatility keeps the matchup tighter than the standings suggest.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time is Grizzlies vs Jazz on December 12?

The game starts at 8:00 p.m. ET on Friday, December 12. It is played at FedExForum in Memphis.

Q2: Is Ja Morant playing against the Jazz?

Ja Morant is listed as probable with a calf strain. He is expected to return after missing 10 games.

Q3: Is Lauri Markkanen available for Utah?

Yes. Lauri Markkanen is expected to play after missing the previous game due to illness.

Q4: Which players are out for the Grizzlies?

Zach Edey, Brandon Clarke, Ty Jerome, John Konchar, Scotty Pippen Jr., and Javon Small are all sidelined.

Q5: How can fans watch Jazz vs Grizzlies?

The game airs on FDSSE and KJZZ. Streaming options include regional sports network platforms.