Ja Morant sprained his left ankle in practice and is week-to-week, delaying Memphis' preseason and start of the season. Scotty Pippen Jr. figures to carry primary playmaking duties as the Grizzlies navigate Morant’s absence and a thinner big-man group.

Injuries also loom: Jaren Jackson Jr. rehabbing turf toe, Zach Edey returning from ankle surgery, and Brandon Clarke sidelined with knee synovitis. Offseason moves reshaped the guard depth, with Desmond Bane traded to Orlando for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (Anthony waived) and four first-round picks.

Memphis opens preseason vs Detroit and the regular season vs New Orleans on Oct. 22, a daunting start as Morant recovers and the rotation re-stabilizes.

The Boston Celtics are making significant moves this offseason, highlighted by the departure of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis as they navigate their financial landscape. With Jayson Tatum sidelined for the entire season due to a torn Achilles, the Celtics are in a rebuilding phase while hoping to secure a playoff spot led by Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Anfernee Simons, acquired in the Holiday deal, could be on the trading block before even stepping onto the court for Boston, with potential trades being discussed.

One such trade would send Simons to Memphis in exchange for Brandon Clarke and other assets, which could enhance Boston's wing depth and provide another big man to their rotation. This move may be appealing to Memphis, given their recent need for scoring following Desmond Bane's exit. With various trade options available, Boston's front office has a lot to consider as they aim to balance depth and potential for next season.

The Memphis Grizzlies are weighing the pros and cons of re-signing Marvin Bagley III as he stands as an unrestricted free agent following a season with limited impact. His acquisition mid-season from the Washington Wizards resulted in modest contributions, averaging just 3.6 points over 12 games. However, his closing performance against the Mavericks, where he scored 25 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, hinted at potential upside. With Zach Edey's recent ankle surgery sidelining him for the start of the 2025-26 season, the Grizzlies may find themselves in need of additional frontcourt depth.

Despite the evident need, Bagley's return is complicated. His previous fit within the Grizzlies’ system was less than ideal, and competition for minutes will remain fierce, particularly with Jaren Jackson Jr., Santi Aldama, and Brandon Clarke in the mix. Furthermore, Memphis's plans to renounce Bagley’s rights could make it easier for other teams to pursue him, leaving the Grizzlies potentially needing to sign him to a minimum deal if they hope to keep him.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder claimed this year's MVP award, leading a distinguished All-NBA First Team that includes Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, and Donovan Mitchell. While Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokić, and Tatum were unanimous selections, Mitchell made the first team for the first time, highlighting a breakout season. Antetokounmpo boasts a remarkable seven first-team selections, while Jokić continues to shine with his fifth first-team nod.

In addition to the first-team accolades, other notable players include LeBron James, who made the All-NBA team for the 21st time, and Anthony Edwards, both of whom secured spots on the second team. The third team features Cade Cunningham, Tyrese Haliburton, James Harden, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Jalen Williams. Awards season culminated in Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP win, alongside honors for Coach of the Year Kenny Atkinson and Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle.

Brandon Clarke of the Memphis Grizzlies is out for the season due to a high-grade PCL sprain in his right knee, a setback that follows a challenging previous season marked by a torn Achilles injury. His injury occurred while defending against Scoot Henderson in a recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Clarke had been pivotal in Memphis' frontcourt, averaging 8.5 points and 5.1 rebounds and playing significant minutes, especially in the absence of Jaren Jackson Jr.

This injury could severely impact the Grizzlies as they navigate a tight playoff race, currently sitting fifth in the Western Conference amidst a three-game losing streak. With the Los Angeles Lakers now healthy and pushing for playoff positioning, Memphis must fend off competition from the Golden State Warriors, who are closing in from behind. Clarke's absence leaves a gap that could affect the Grizzlies' chances in the postseason.