Memphis Grizzlies face mounting injury concerns ahead of Thunder matchup
As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, December 22, the team finds itself grappling with a significant injury crisis. The game is set to tip off at 8:30 p.m. CST at the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, with fans able to catch the action on Peacock and FanDuel Sports Oklahoma, or tune in on local radio stations 92.9 FM ESPN Radio/AM 680 in Memphis and 98.1 FM/640 AM in Oklahoma.
Current Standings and Matchup History
This matchup marks the second meeting of the season between the Grizzlies (13-15) and the Thunder (25-3), following a loss for Memphis in their earlier encounter in November. Historically, the Grizzlies have struggled against the Thunder, holding a record of 45-88 in regular-season play. This includes a split of 23 wins at home and 22 wins on the road—statistics that reflect the challenge Memphis faces as they look to even the score.
Projected Lineups
Grizzlies
G Cedric Coward
G Cam Spencer
C Jaren Jackson Jr.
F Jaylen Wells
F Brandon Clarke
Thunder
G Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
G Jalen Williams
C Isaiah Hartenstein
F Lugentz Dort
F Chet Holmgren
Injury Report
The Grizzlies are entering this contest severely shorthanded, with several key players sidelined:
Brandon Clarke: Out – Calf
Ja Morant: Out – Ankle
Vince Williams: Out – Knee
Zach Edey: Out – Ankle
John Konchar: Out – Thumb
Ty Jerome: Out – Calf
Scotty Pippen Jr.: Out – Toe
Javon Small: Out – Toe
GG Jackson: Out – G League
Conversely, the Thunder are also facing injury concerns, though not as significant as Memphis:
Chet Holmgren: Questionable – Back
Alex Caruso: Questionable – Finger
Aaron Wiggins: Questionable – Adductor
Isaiah Hartenstein: Out – Calf
Betting Insights
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the odds reflect the disparity between the two teams:
Spread: Grizzlies +16.5 (-110), Thunder -16.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Grizzlies +810, Thunder -1350
Total points scored: 229.5 (over -108, under -112)
Coach’s Perspective
After a recent loss to the Washington Wizards, Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo addressed the team’s struggles, highlighting issues that contributed to the defeat. “We didn’t do the things that lead to winning basketball today. No pace, no ball movement in the second half, and then, on top of this, we allowed the other team to bully us and offensive rebound,” he stated. He emphasized the team’s past success in defensive rebounding, noting that the Wizards secured 41 or 42 percent of their missed shots—a statistic that is “obviously unsustainable.”
As they head into this crucial game against a formidable opponent, the Grizzlies are not just fighting for a win; they are battling through adversity. The outcome could have lingering implications for their season, especially with the challenging trade deadline approaching and the future of the team in flux.
