Is Ja Morant Playing Tonight? Latest Injury Update for Grizzlies vs Nuggets

Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant will not play tonight against the Denver Nuggets as he continues to recover from a right calf strain. The injury occurred during a Nov. 15 matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The team confirmed he would be re-evaluated two weeks after Nov. 17, ruling him out for the Nov. 24 contest.

Morant has played in 12 games this season and averaged 17.9 points and 7.6 assists. His absence adds to an already depleted point guard rotation, leaving the Grizzlies with limited ball-handling depth. Memphis will again rely on makeshift playmaking options as they try to build momentum.

Ja Morant’s Current Status and What It Means for Memphis

The Grizzlies released their official update shortly after Morant suffered the right calf strain during the Cleveland game. He underwent initial testing and treatment before the organization announced a two-week re-evaluation window. According to multiple national outlets like AP and ESPN, calf strains often require careful management due to the risk of reinjury.

Morant has already missed five games since the injury. Memphis remains cautious because calf issues can limit explosiveness, and his driving ability is central to the team’s offense. With the Nuggets coming into FedExForum on Nov. 24, the Grizzlies will move forward without their franchise point guard.

The team is also missing Scotty Pippen Jr. (toe), Ty Jerome (calf) and Javon Small (toe). That leaves Vince Williams Jr. and Cam Spencer as primary creators on the perimeter. The Grizzlies have gone 2–3 without Morant, including back-to-back wins that provided a boost entering tonight’s matchup.

The absence of four ball-handlers places a heavier load on Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr., who must shoulder more shot creation. Morant’s playmaking, speed, and attacking ability normally open up Memphis’ offense. Without him, the team has leaned heavily on defensive pressure and pace changes to stay competitive.

The injury timing also affects the Grizzlies’ place in the Western Conference standings. At 6–11, Memphis needs consistency to avoid falling deeper in the early playoff race. Against last season’s NBA champions, winning without Morant is a tall challenge, but recent improvements give the team some confidence.

How the Grizzlies Adjust While Morant Recovers

Memphis has experimented with new lineup combinations since losing Morant. The coaching staff has increased off-ball actions, encouraged quicker decision-making, and emphasized ball movement. The goal is to reduce pressure on inexperienced guards handling the ball under playoff-level defensive schemes.

In the long term, the Grizzlies believe Morant will avoid extended downtime, but they won’t rush him back. Calf strains can worsen if not fully healed, as seen in other NBA stars who missed significant time in recent seasons. The team expects to reassess him around Dec. 1.

For now, fans should not expect to see Morant suit up “tonight,” and the Grizzlies are preparing without their lead playmaker. His return will be essential for Memphis to climb in the standings and regain offensive rhythm.

Ja Morant’s injury status remains unchanged for tonight’s game, and he will continue rehab as the Grizzlies rely on depth pieces to carry the load. Memphis hopes his re-evaluation next week brings better news.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Ja Morant playing tonight?

No. Ja Morant is out with a right calf strain and will be re-evaluated two weeks after Nov. 17. He will not play against the Nuggets.

Q2: What injury does Ja Morant have?

Morant is dealing with a right calf strain suffered on Nov. 15 during a game against the Cavaliers.

Q3: When will Ja Morant return?

The team will re-evaluate him around Dec. 1. His exact return date depends on progress during treatment.

Q4: How are the Grizzlies performing without Ja Morant?

Memphis is 2–3 without him but has won its last two games. The offense has relied on role players and defensive adjustments.

Q5: Who is replacing Ja Morant at point guard?

Vince Williams Jr. and Cam Spencer have taken on increased playmaking duties, with Desmond Bane helping initiate offense.