Timberwolves vs Grizzlies (Image via Getty) The Memphis Grizzlies will be without Ja Morant when they take on the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 2, 2026. The NBA’s latest injury report lists Morant as out as he continues to recover from a left-elbow UCL sprain.His absence adds to Memphis’ injury concerns at a time when the team is trying to stay in the playoff race. With several players unavailable, the Grizzlies enter this game needing contributions from the remaining rotation to remain competitive.
Why is Ja Morant officially listed out vs Minnesota Timberwolves (February 2, 2026)
Ja Morant will not play against Minnesota after being ruled out on the official injury report. He suffered the elbow injury in late January during a game against the Atlanta Hawks when he hit the backboard while attempting a chase-down block.Following the injury, the Grizzlies set a three-week window before reevaluating him. That timeline keeps him out through at least the first week of February. The setback adds to a difficult season for Morant. He has already missed time with calf and ankle injuries, along with other lower-body issues, bringing his total missed games into the mid-20s.
Short-handed Memphis faces tough test
Playing without Morant creates a clear challenge for Memphis. The team has struggled to find consistency, and losing its primary guard increases the pressure on the rest of the backcourt. Scotty Pippen Jr. is also sidelined with a left great-toe injury, leaving Memphis thinner at the guard position.Minnesota has some injury questions as well but still enters the matchup with a strong group led by Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert. Based on available lineups, the Timberwolves hold the advantage, while Memphis is expected to lean more on role players and bench scoring.
Ja Morant’s Expected return timeline
The current plan is to reevaluate Morant about three weeks after the injury. If recovery goes as expected, his earliest return would likely be around mid-February, possibly after the All-Star break. There has been discussion about a potential return on February 20 against the Utah Jazz, but no date has been confirmed. Given his recent injuries, the team is expected to be cautious.For now, Morant is not expected back before mid-February.
Trade deadline context for Memphis Grizzlies
Ja Morant’s absence also comes at an important point in the season. Memphis is hovering around .500, and his durability has become part of the conversation as the trade deadline approaches. There has been growing speculation about whether the front office could adjust the roster, either by strengthening the group around Morant or considering broader changes.Also read: Is Anthony Edwards playing tonight vs the Memphis Grizzlies? Latest update on the Minnesota Timberwolves star’s injury report (February 2, 2026)Games like this provide a look at how the team performs without its star guard and may influence how Memphis approaches the rest of the season.