The Memphis Grizzlies are in a tough spot right now, and it's not just about the numbers in the win-loss column. Sitting at 18-28, they’re battling more than just their opponents-they’re fighting through a wave of injuries that’s made an already difficult season even harder to navigate.
The biggest blow? Ja Morant is sidelined for at least three weeks with a sprained UCL in his left elbow.
That’s a massive void to fill, both in terms of production and leadership.
Without Morant, the Grizzlies are missing their engine. He’s the guy who sets the tempo, creates offense out of thin air, and gives Memphis its edge. And while playing at home can sometimes spark a short-term boost, this group is clearly struggling to find rhythm and confidence.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves are trending in the opposite direction. With a 30-19 record, they’re not just in the playoff picture-they’re solidly in the mix and playing like a team that knows exactly who it is.
They’ve stacked up three straight wins, and these weren’t soft matchups either. Beating the Warriors, Mavericks, and Thunder in succession says a lot about where this team is mentally and physically right now.
Anthony Edwards continues to be the heartbeat of this squad, bringing energy and explosiveness every night. And while rumors about Giannis Antetokounmpo being intrigued by the idea of teaming up with Edwards are just that-rumors-it’s a sign of how far this Timberwolves team has come. They’re becoming a destination, not just a stopover.
Heading into this matchup, the contrast between these two teams couldn’t be more stark. Memphis is searching for answers in a season that’s slipping away, while Minnesota is building momentum at just the right time.