Memphis Grizzlies’ dynamic All-Star guard Ja Morant will not play in the highly anticipated NBA Berlin Game 2026 against the Orlando Magic on Thursday, the team and league confirmed Wednesday. Morant’s absence stems from a right calf contusion that has kept him off the court for the past five games, a setback that casts uncertainty over his availability during the Grizzlies’ European swing.
The NBA Berlin Game 2026, scheduled for January 15 at the Uber Arena, marks a major milestone for the league’s international footprint as the Grizzlies and Magic meet for a regular-season matchup on German soil. However, the loss of one of the Grizzlies’ most electrifying players has shifted much of the pregame narrative toward Morant’s health and what his status means for Memphis’ short-term outlook.
Calf Injury Forces Ja Morant to Sit, Dashes Berlin Plans
Morant, who has been sidelined with a right calf contusion, was officially ruled out ahead of Thursday’s game. The injury is the same issue that has kept him out of Memphis’ last five contests, and while the team held out hope that he might return for the European trip, those plans did not materialize.
The calf contusion, different from more severe strains or tears, still requires careful management to avoid aggravating the area further. The Grizzlies’ medical staff opted against rushing him back for the Berlin matchup — a decision that prioritizes his long-term health given the regular-season grind and playoff aspirations.
Earlier reports had suggested Morant had a chance to play in the Berlin game and the subsequent matchup in London, but those hopes have been dashed with the official ruling.
Consistency Elusive in 2025-26 Season
This season has been a roller-coaster for Morant’s availability. The 26-year-old guard has appeared in just 18 games thus far, hampered by injury and, at times, availability issues. Despite those disruptions, he has managed to average roughly 19 points and 7.6 assists per game, showcasing his importance to the Grizzlies’ offensive flow when on the court.
Morant’s recurring injuries have tested Memphis’ depth in backcourt minutes. Early in the season he missed time with a calf strain, and this most recent bout has reignited questions about how durable the franchise’s cornerstone backcourt star can be over the long haul.
Coach Tuomas Iisalo, addressing the situation earlier in the week, emphasized that the Grizzlies would continue to lean on their roster to navigate through the period without Morant. With his status officially listed as out for the Berlin game, the Grizzlies will turn to other ball-handling options to manage the pace and creation responsibilities.
Impact on Grizzlies’ Rotation and European Showcase
Morant’s absence alters the complexion of Memphis’ rotation for the trip abroad. The Grizzlies have already been managing a slate of injuries, including concerns around players such as Zach Edey (ankle) and Brandon Clarke (calf), limiting options in both the backcourt and frontcourt.
Without Morant, Memphis is expected to lean more heavily on veterans such as Jaren Jackson Jr. and secondary playmakers to maintain structure on the offensive end. The coaching staff may also give extended minutes to role players who have seen limited exposure this season. The guard rotation will likely feature increased responsibilities for players like Ty Jerome and others capable of initiating offense and creating opportunities in transition.
Memphis’ upcoming slate, including the Berlin and London games, represents a unique challenge due to travel and condensed scheduling. With Morant sidelined, the Grizzlies will need to find cohesion and resilience to compete against an Orlando team that boasts its own talent and international aspirations.
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Trade Rumours and Off-Court Dynamics
Adding complexity to Morant’s situation are ongoing trade rumors that have swirled in recent days. Reports suggest that Memphis is listening to offers involving their star guard ahead of the NBA trade deadline, though Morant himself has publicly denied any rift with coach Tuomas Iisalo. He has stated he would “live with” a trade scenario if it unfolded, but his focus remains on basketball and recovery.
A clip of an animated exchange with teammate Vince Williams Jr. during a recent practice session in Berlin drew additional attention to the dynamics within the team, though both parties have not elaborated on the incident.
What’s Next for Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies
As things stand, Ja Morant will not suit up for the NBA Berlin Game 2026. His next realistic window for action could come during the follow-up game in London on Sunday, but that will depend on how the Grizzlies’ medical staff assess his recovery over the next couple of days.
For now, the Grizzlies’ European showcase will proceed without one of the NBA’s most electrifying talents. How Memphis adapts in this period will be closely watched by fans and league observers alike, not just for its implications on the current season, but for Morant’s future and the franchise’s direction under heightened speculation.
