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Jan 16, 2026
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Ja Morant Could Return Against Magic in London
Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo expressed optimism about Ja Morant's return for the game against the Orlando Magic in London, after the star missed the first European matchup in Germany.
Photo Credit : Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Memphis Grizzlies could get their star point guard Ja Morant back for the second game of their European trip. After missing the 118-111 loss to the Magic in Berlin, the two-time All-Star could make his return Sunday at London’s O2 Arena.
𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Ja Morant has been listed as PROBABLE for tomorrow’s game against the Magic.
(via @GrizzliesPR)
— Grizzlies SZN (@Grizzlies_szn) January 17, 2026
Hoped-for Return After Six-Game Absence
« There’s a good chance he plays. He participated in the full practice today and now we need to see how his body responds tomorrow morning », coach Tuomas Iisalo said Saturday. « There are obviously no guarantees and he needs to feel comfortable with how his calf feels. »
Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo exclusively tells @talkSPORT and @TheSteinLine about whether Ja Morant plays on Sunday against the Magic in London. 🏀 pic.twitter.com/dzH21318IE
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) January 17, 2026
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Morant has missed the Grizzlies‘ last six games due to this calf injury. His last appearance was on December 2nd, during a 128-121 loss to the Lakers where he played 31 minutes. NBA commissioner Adam Silver had expressed his disappointment in Berlin regarding Morant’s absence, emphasizing that the point guard « generates enormous enthusiasm on a global scale ».
This season, Morant is averaging 19 points and 7.6 assists per game. While his involvement is being questioned by observers, the player, who earns approximately $39.4 million this season as part of his five-year, $197.2 million contract, is currently the subject of trade rumors.
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A Team That Remains United Despite Speculation
Despite the Grizzlies‘ recent struggles, having lost seven of their last nine games, coach Tuomas Iisalo refuses to be distracted by trade rumors. « We’re simply focused on the work and our daily mission », he explained. « Anyone who is here and sees the atmosphere we have as well as the focus and effort the guys are putting in can see we have an excellent group. »
Young guard Jaylen Wells also defended his teammate, highlighting Morant’s positive impact in the locker room. « He’s an excellent leader. You can see him on the bench, cheering us on », Wells said. « No matter what’s happening on the outside, it’s always what’s happening on the inside that matters. As a team, we don’t really care about it. »
Sylvain Sultat follows the NBA on a daily basis, covering individual performances, team dynamics, and the league's greatest stories. On Be-Basketball, he breaks down the latest American basketball news with passion and consistency, always on the lookout for the trends shaping the world of basketball.
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