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.

Five sleepers to target in fantasy basketball drafts: Santi Aldama (MEM) could push near 30 mpg with Desmond Bane’s departure, carving out a bigger scoring and 3-point role behind Morant and Jackson Jr. T.J. McConnell (IND) may lead the second unit as Haliburton sits, offering steady points and assists at a solid clip in 22–25 minutes. Jay Huff (IND) brings length and rim protection, with upside if minutes rise. Cam Whitmore (WAS) and Ryan Kalkbrenner (CHA) offer late-round upside with added run due to injuries and roster reshaping.

Injuries and roster churn shape early-season value, especially in Memphis, Indiana, Washington and Charlotte. Keep a close eye on injury reports and projections from RotoWire to adjust drafts and waivers as the season unfolds.