Memphis Grizzlies vs Charlotte Hornets final injury report (April 8, 2025): Is Ja Morant expected to play tonight? | NBA News
The Western Conference playoff race remains wide open as the Memphis Grizzlies fight to secure their spot. With every game carrying postseason implications, the Grizzlies face the Charlotte Hornets tonight in what should be a must-win matchup. The biggest question looming over the game: Will Ja Morant suit up after missing the previous contest?
Ja Morant’s status and injury updates for the Charlotte Hornets game (April 8, 2025)
Memphis received a scare when their star point guard Ja Morant was ruled out last minute against the Pistons due to food poisoning. However, interim head coach Tuomas Iisalo provided positive updates ahead of tonight’s game.
Key takeaways from the injury report:
– Ja Morant (food poisoning) – Expected to return
– Zyon Pullin (knee injury) – Out
– Brandon Clarke (knee) – Out for the season
Morant’s return is crucial for Memphis, as he leads the team with averages of 22.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. His absence was felt, but the Memphis Grizzlies managed back-to-back wins against Miami and Detroit without him.
How the Memphis Grizzlies lineup could look against Charlotte Hornets (April 8, 2025)
With Morant back in action, Memphis is expected to field a strong starting five. Here’s the projected lineup:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| PG | Ja Morant |
| SG | Desmond Bane |
| SF | Jaylen Wells |
| PF | Jaren Jackson Jr. |
| C | Zach Edey |
Desmond Bane’s recent 38-point explosion against Detroit and rookie Zach Edey’s dominant 21-rebound performance provide additional firepower. The Memphis Grizzlies will rely on their core players to secure a vital road win.
Playoff implications and what’s at stake for Memphis Grizzlies
The Grizzlies currently hold the 8th seed in the West, making every remaining game critical. Key factors in tonight’s matchup:
– The Hornets (19-59) have little to play for besides their final home game.
– Memphis must capitalize on weaker opponents to climb the standings.
– A win could help them avoid the play-in tournament or secure a better seeding.
While Charlotte’s poor record suggests an easy victory, NBA unpredictability means Memphis can’t afford to take anything for granted.
Can Morant lead the Grizzlies to the playoffs?
Ja Morant’s return provides a major boost, but Memphis must maintain consistency. With only a few games left, each performance could determine their postseason fate. If the Grizzlies play to their potential, they should handle the Hornets, but in this tight Western race, nothing is guaranteed.
Fans will be watching closely to see if Morant and company can deliver when it matters most.
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