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.

Brandon Clarke's season-ending injury due to a high-grade PCL sprain leaves a significant gap for the Memphis Grizzlies, who are currently the fifth seed in the Western Conference. Clarke's absence is notable as he has built strong chemistry with Ja Morant and has been crucial alongside Jaren Jackson Jr. in their frontcourt.

Memphis faces challenges in the final 11 games of the regular season and postseason without Clarke, who averaged 16.5 points and 9 rebounds in last year's playoffs. The team must quickly find effective pairings with Jackson, with Zach Edey emerging as a promising option given his superior net ratings with Jackson. The Grizzlies will rely on Edey and Santi Aldama to step up their roles, while also needing to evaluate the contributions of reserves like Jay Huff and Marvin Bagley.

Ja Morant will miss his third consecutive game as the Memphis Grizzlies face the Los Angeles Clippers. The star guard is struggling with a hamstring injury, contributing to his limited availability this season—he has played in just 43 of 70 games. The Grizzlies have a record of 15-12 without Morant, which highlights the impact of his absence. Additionally, Memphis will be without Brandon Clarke, who is dealing with a right knee injury, on top of Lamar Stevens and GG Jackson, who are also injured.