The Memphis Grizzlies are preparing for their season opener against the New Orleans Pelicans. This matchup will kick off the 2025-26 NBA season. The Grizzlies enter the game with significant challenges due to injuries, having posted a disappointing 1-5 record in preseason games. They secured their lone victory in the finale against the Miami Heat.
Injury Challenges for the Grizzlies
As they face the Pelicans, the Grizzlies will be without five key players:
- Brandon Clarke – recovering from right knee surgery
- Zach Edey – recovering from left ankle surgery
- Ty Jerome – experiencing a right calf strain
- Scotty Pippen Jr. – recovering from left great toe surgery
- Vince Williams Jr. – dealing with right heel soreness
In contrast, star players Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. have avoided the injury report despite minor preseason issues. Their participation will be crucial for the Grizzlies.
Pelicans’ Preseason Status
The New Orleans Pelicans, while also facing injury struggles, possess a healthier lineup compared to the Grizzlies. They have ruled out two impactful players:
- Kevon Looney – right knee sprain
- Dejounte Murray – right Achilles rupture
Karlo Matkovic is listed as doubtful due to low back spasms, but the Pelicans still have notable talent. Players like Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole, Trey Murphy III, and Herb Jones are expected to play key roles in Wednesday’s game.
Game Details and Expectations
The matchup between the Grizzlies and Pelicans will take place at 8:00 p.m. ET in Memphis. Tickets for the game are among the most affordable in recent history, with prices starting as low as $6. This affordability, combined with the excitement of Morant versus Williamson, is expected to draw fans to the FedExForum.
Both teams have dealt with injury difficulties over the past seasons, making this opener particularly significant. Fans can anticipate an intense game as the Grizzlies look to overcome their depth issues and the Pelicans aim to capitalize on their relatively healthier roster.
