Grizzlies Face Temporary Setback

The Memphis Grizzlies will be missing a key player for a while.

Center Zach Eady has a stress reaction in his left ankle, and it looks like he’ll be sidelined for at least the next four weeks, as announced by the team on Thursday.

ESPN reports that this absence seems to be a precautionary move to ensure Eady’s long-term health.

His agent, Mark Bartelstein, stated, “This is a management plan, in consultation with the Grizzlies and medical experts, to optimize Zach’s long-term health.” He also mentioned that Eady’s short- and long-term prognosis should be positive following this step.

Eady had surgery on that same ankle earlier this summer, and he missed the first 13 games of the 2025-26 season while recovering.

This season, he’s demonstrated significant improvement compared to his rookie year, averaging 13.6 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks over 11 games.

Selected ninth overall by Memphis in the 2024 NBA Draft, Eady finished fifth in the Rookie of the Year voting, with averages of 9.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game.

Concerningly, his injury comes at a time when star point guard Ja Morant is also facing his own challenges with a right calf strain.

Morant hasn’t played since the Grizzlies’ loss to the Cavaliers on November 15 and has only participated in 12 games this season. His performance has taken a hit, reflecting an average of 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists, along with a shooting percentage of 35.9 from the field.

Reportedly, there have been tensions between Morant and the coaching staff. He even received a one-game suspension after a response to reporters about his struggles, implying they should speak with the coaches instead.

Speculation has arisen regarding Morant’s future in Memphis, with recent reports suggesting the Timberwolves and Kings might be interested in him.

Despite a rough season start, the Grizzlies are showing signs of recovery, having won seven of their last nine games and improving their record to 11-13.