Is Morant playing tonight against the Golden State Warriors? Latest news on the status of the superstar guard for the marquee clash (December 19)


Superstar of the Memphis Grizzlies Already Morant's The state was up in the air for Thursday's marquee game against the Golden State Warriors. The point guard was previously questionable for this game, but has been updated to be available ahead of the game.

According to the the Grizzlies injury report, he has lower back pain. Morant has been dealing with the illness since December 8 after initially injuring his hip on November 7. He played in Sunday's 116-110 loss to the LA Lakers.

If Morant is down, Scotty Pippen Jr. would replace him in the starting line-up. His absence would be a major blow to the Grizzlies, however. Morant has been in great form of late, averaging 23.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 7.3 assists in December and posting multiple 30-point games.

Ja Morant vs Golden State Warriors stats

Already Morant has played 11 games against him Golden State Warriorsaveraging 22.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 7.4 apg, shooting 43/25/75 splits. They have won just five times, posting a losing record against the Grizzlies' conference rivals.

If Morant is upgraded to available, it will be his first game against the Warriors in nearly two years. He last played for them on January 25, 2023, adding 29 points, four rebounds and 12 assists on 50.0% shooting in a 122-120 loss.

The Grizzlies enter this game on a 10-2 streak, but are coming off a 116-110 loss to the Lakers. They will hope to bounce back against the struggling Warriors, who have lost eight of their last 10.

However, that is largely dependent on Ja Morant's outfit and it would be a monumental effort from others in his absence, as the Warriors enter this contest relatively healthy.

Where to watch the Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies game?

The Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies will headline Thursday's NBA League Pass slate. Meanwhile, NBC Sports Bay Area and FanDuel Sports Network – Southeast will provide coverage of the game in local regions beginning at 8:00 pm ET. The Grizzlies enter this contest as -2.5 point favorites with a -135 money line.