Why is Ja Morant not playing tonight against Wizards? Reason behind Grizzlies superstar's absence revealed (Nov. 8)

The Memphis Grizzlies will face the Washington Wizards on Friday without their superstar Ja Morant, who has been ruled out due to right hip soreness. This will be Morant's second missed game of the season, putting the responsibility on the rest of the Memphis roster to secure a win at home.

Morant last played in the Grizzlies' 131-114 victory over the LA Lakers on Wednesday, but left the game early after sustaining a hamstring injury. In his 24 minutes on the court, he tallied 20 points, four rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block.

So far this season, Morant has played in eight games, averaging 20.6 points on 44.8% shooting, including 25.8% from beyond the arc, along with five rebounds and 9.1 assists per game.

Memphis Grizzlies face injury challenges

The Memphis Grizzlies have been short-handed at the start of the 2024-25 season, with several key players already missing time. That trend will continue in their game against the Wizards, as multiple players will be sidelined along with Ja Morant.

Guard Marcus Smart is out with a right ankle sprain and Desmond Bane is expected to miss Friday’s game due to a right oblique strain. Forward GG Jackson II remains sidelined with a right foot injury. Jon Konchar, who has missed the last four games, is listed as “questionable” due to a right quad contusion.

Despite the injuries, the Grizzlies have maintained a record above .500, winning five of their nine games. Young talents like Scotty Pippen Jr., Zach Edey, Jay Huff and Jaylen Wells have stepped up impressively in the absence of the team’s key players.

Where to watch Memphis Grizzlies vs. Washington Wizards?

The Memphis Grizzlies vs. Washington Wizards game is scheduled to take place on Friday, Nov. 8, at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. The game will tip off at 8 p.m. EDT (5 p.m. PT).

The Grizzlies vs. Wizards will be broadcast live on the FanDuel Sports Network (local). Hoops fans will have the option to stream the game live on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).