Ja Morant Returns as Grizzlies Face Depleted Bucks in Post-Christmas Showdown
The Memphis Grizzlies are set to welcome back a vital piece of their roster as they prepare to take on the Milwaukee Bucks. After a challenging stretch that saw them without several key players, the Grizzlies anticipate the return of guard Ja Morant and rookie wing Cedric Coward in their starting lineup for the matchup on Friday at FedEx Forum. Morant’s absence, due to calf and ankle injuries, has been a significant blow, with the star guard missing a total of twelve games.
Injury Reports Weigh Heavy on Both Teams
As the Grizzlies look to capitalize on Morant’s return, the Bucks will be without veteran guard Gary Trent Jr., adding to their list of absences. The Bucks, who have been under scrutiny amid rumors of discontent from their superstars, are also dealing with the ongoing absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo. The two-time MVP has been sidelined since suffering a non-contact calf injury earlier this month and will not be rushed back to action.
Both teams come into this showdown looking to build momentum after securing victories in their previous games, ending frustrating losing streaks. However, the road ahead remains rocky, especially for the Bucks, who are in the midst of a five-game road trip with crucial matchups against Memphis, Chicago, and Charlotte.
Grizzlies’ Strength Against Struggling Teams
The Grizzlies have thrived against teams with losing records this season, with all but two of their victories coming against opponents currently below .500. Since November 20, Memphis has displayed resilience, boasting a 10-5 record despite the absences of key players like Morant and center Zach Edey, who will miss the opening week of 2026 due to a stress reaction in his right ankle.
In their last outing, the Grizzlies showcased their offensive prowess, matching a season-high of 137 points in a nine-point victory over Utah, highlighted by an impressive 37-point performance from Santi Aldama. Jaren Jackson Jr., the reigning Western Conference Player of the Week, has also been instrumental in Memphis’s success, contributing significantly to their scoring efforts.
Milwaukee’s Struggles Amid Injuries
Conversely, the Bucks, who began the season with an 8-5 record, have seen a sharp decline, managing only four wins in their last 13 games. They haven’t won back-to-back contests since late October, and their struggles are compounded by injuries. With Antetokounmpo and Trent Jr. out, Milwaukee is forced to rely on its depth, which has been tested throughout the season.
Historically, the Grizzlies have dominated this matchup, winning their last seven encounters against the Bucks, with their last defeat dating back to January 2022. In those games, Memphis has consistently put up impressive scores, including a 132-119 victory earlier this year, where Jackson’s standout performance was pivotal in overcoming Antetokounmpo’s efforts.
Looking Ahead
As both teams gear up for this highly anticipated clash, the Grizzlies aim to extend their dominance over the Bucks, who currently sit at 4-10 on the road. The matchup on December 26 will be critical, not only for their respective standings but also for the potential implications on roster dynamics as both teams navigate injury challenges.
Injury Report
Grizzlies
Ja Morant: Available – Left Ankle Sprain
Cedric Coward: Available – Left Heel Soreness
Brandon Clarke: Out – Right Calf Strain
Vince Williams Jr.: Out – Left Patellar Tendinitis
Zach Edey: Out – Left Ankle Stress Reaction
Ty Jerome: Out – Right Calf Strain
John Konchar: Out – Left Thumb UCL Tear
Scotty Pippen Jr.: Out – Right Toe Surgery Recovery
Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo: Out – Right Calf Strain
Gary Trent Jr.: Out – Left Calf Contusion
Taurean Prince: Out – Neck Surgery Recovery
Alex Antetokounmpo: Out – G League (Two-way)
Game Details
Date and Time: Friday, December 26, 7:10 p.m. CST
Location: FedEx Forum, Memphis, Tennessee
TV: FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin (Bucks), FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (Grizzlies)
Radio: WTMJ (Bucks), WMFS-FM (Grizzlies)
As both teams navigate their respective challenges, fans can expect an intriguing matchup filled with potential turning points for the Grizzlies and Bucks as they look to solidify their positions moving into the new year.
