Ja Morant Injury Update: Will the Grizzlies Star Return Against the Jazz on Friday?

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant took a major step toward his return on December 12 after fully participating in practice, raising the possibility that he could play Friday against the Utah Jazz. The All-Star has been out since mid-November with a strained calf. His return timeline and injury update remain the most closely watched developments for Memphis.

Head coach Tuomas Iisalo confirmed Morant completed the full session and said the team will evaluate him Friday before making a final decision. Memphis will release its official injury report ahead of the game.

Morant Completes First Full Practice Since Mid-November

Morant practiced without restrictions on Thursday, according to team reporter Michael Wallace. It marked the first time he participated fully since suffering the calf strain that halted his season after just 12 games. He has averaged 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists this year.

Coach Iisalo called the session encouraging and emphasized that the next 24 hours will determine whether Morant suits up. He said the final call depends on how Morant’s body responds overnight. The Grizzlies are 12–18 and preparing for a key matchup with Utah on December 13.

Memphis continues to battle injuries and inconsistency. Morant’s return would provide a boost for a team still adjusting to Iisalo’s first season. The star guard has also been the subject of trade speculation in recent weeks, though the team has not publicly addressed those rumors.

What Morant’s Potential Return Means for Memphis

A Friday return would give the Grizzlies a needed spark before a challenging stretch that includes the Timberwolves and Clippers. Morant’s playmaking has been difficult to replace, and the rotation has leaned heavily on young guards during his absence.

A healthy Morant stabilizes the offense and gives Memphis a stronger late-game option. His availability also shifts defensive matchups for opponents, opening scoring chances for secondary players. With ongoing roster questions and a slow start to the season, his return could help determine how the franchise approaches its long-term direction.

Morant’s injury update marks the clearest sign yet that his return timeline is accelerating. If cleared Friday, he will take the court for the first time in nearly a month, giving Memphis an important lift heading into a crucial part of its schedule.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Ja Morant’s current return timeline?

Morant could return as soon as Friday, December 13, depending on how he responds to Thursday’s full practice. The team will decide on game day.

Q2: What injury has kept Ja Morant out?

Morant has been sidelined with a strained calf since mid-November. The Grizzlies have monitored his progress gradually.

Q3: How has Ja Morant performed this season?

Through 12 games, he has averaged 17.9 points, 7.6 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. His playmaking remains central to the Grizzlies’ offense.

Q4: How important is Morant’s return for Memphis?

His return strengthens the rotation, improves scoring options, and provides veteran stability as the team tries to recover from a slow start.

Q5: Are trade rumors affecting Morant’s status?

Morant has been linked to speculation, but the organization has not confirmed any trade discussions. His injury recovery remains the priority.