Grizzlies Star Ja Morant and Santi Aldama Ruled Out Against Pelicans Due to Illness
The Memphis Grizzlies will face the New Orleans Pelicans without key players Ja Morant and Santi Aldama on Friday evening. Both players were ruled out due to cold symptoms, a decision confirmed by head coach Taylor Jenkins. Jenkins noted that the team had an off-day prior to the game, during which the players reported feeling unwell, prompting the decision to rest them for the matchup.
Ja Morant, 25, is currently the second-leading scorer for the Grizzlies, averaging 21.2 points per game this season, though he has faced challenges with injuries that have limited his appearances to only 26 games thus far. Santi Aldama is enjoying a breakout season, recording career highs of 12.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His absence will impact the Grizzlies' lineup as well.
- Player Status:
- Ja Morant: Out due to cold symptoms
- Santi Aldama: Out due to illness
- Recent Game Performance:
- Aldama left the previous game against Charlotte after playing two quarters.
- Coaching Statement:
- "We opted for rest. They just reported some cold symptoms overnight," - Taylor Jenkins
Multiple players and staff on the Grizzlies have been dealing with illness recently, raising concerns about team health. The Memphis Grizzlies look to navigate this situation as they prepare to take on a Pelicans team coping with injuries of its own, including star player Zion Williamson.