James Harden Returns as Clippers Seek to End Grizzlies’ Dominance Amid Struggles
The L.A. Clippers find themselves in a precarious position as they prepare for their third meeting of the season against the Memphis Grizzlies. Despite their ongoing struggles, there’s a glimmer of hope with the return of point guard James Harden, officially cleared to play on Monday night. His presence could be a game-changer, enhancing the Clippers’ chances of finally breaking their losing streak against Memphis.
Clippers’ Current Dilemma
The Clippers have faced a dismal stretch, winning only three of their last 20 games. Their performance has been alarming, particularly with the departure of Chris Paul, which has left the team searching for stability. While they’ve avoided the bottom of the Western Conference standings, thanks largely to the New Orleans Pelicans, time is running out for a turnaround. As December reaches its halfway mark, every loss carries heavier consequences for a team eager to regain its footing.
Grizzlies’ Inconsistencies
On the other side of the court, the Memphis Grizzlies are also grappling with their challenges. Following a disappointing loss to the Utah Jazz, the team is looking to regroup. Star player Ja Morant made his return after a ten-day absence, but his impact was mixed. The Grizzlies’ defensive struggles and poor rebounding were evident, especially in the absence of center Zach Edey, who won’t return until at least early January. Memphis now embarks on a critical stretch, opening with this matchup at the Intuit Dome, the future site of the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, before hitting the road for four out of five games.
Injury Reports and Impact
Injury updates provide a clearer picture for both teams ahead of the game.
Grizzlies:
Brandon Clarke: Out – Right knee surgery recovery
Zach Edey: Out – Left ankle stress reaction
Ty Jerome: Out – Right calf strain
John Konchar: Out – Left thumb UCL tear
Olivier-Maxence Prosper: Questionable – G League (Two-way)
Scotty Pippen Jr.: Out – Right toe surgery recovery
Javon Small: Out – Left toe soreness
GG Jackson: Out – G League (On assignment)
Clippers:
James Harden: Available – Left calf contusion
Nicolas Batum: Questionable – Illness
Derrick Jones Jr.: Out – Right knee sprain
Bradley Beal: Out – Left hip fracture
Chris Paul: Out – Not with the team
Oscar Tshiebwe: Out – G League (Two-way)
Elijah Harkless: Out – G League (Two-way)
Clippers vs. Grizzlies: A Season in the Balance
As the Clippers and Grizzlies prepare to clash, the stakes are high. The Grizzlies (11-14) aim to clinch the season series against a struggling Clippers team (6-19). This matchup marks Memphis’s second trip to California this season and their third encounter with the Clippers since late November. In their first meeting, Edey dominated with 19 rebounds and three blocks, while Jaren Jackson Jr. led the scoring with 24 points, helping the Grizzlies secure a 112-107 victory at the Intuit Dome. In their most recent encounter on December 5, Cedric Coward’s impressive 23 points and 14 rebounds propelled Memphis to a 107-98 win.
Kawhi Leonard has shone despite the losses, averaging 31.5 points in the two games against Memphis, but Harden’s performance has left much to be desired, shooting just 12-for-31 from the field. As this season unfolds, both teams are eager to shift the narrative with a crucial victory on Monday night.
