NBA Notes: Grizzlies, Ja Morant, Suns, Jalen Green, Pacers

Grizzlies

It was another mixed night on the injury front for Memphis.

The Grizzlies picked up an impressive 18-point road win over the Clippers on Monday, but Ja Morant exited late in the fourth quarter after turning his left ankle on a drive to the basket.

Coach Tuomas Iisalo said afterward that Morant “tweaked” the ankle and will undergo further evaluation, adding that he is hopeful the issue is not significant, per veteran NBA reporter Mark Medina.

Morant’s setback came as Memphis continues to juggle availability. The point guard recently returned from a calf injury just as rookie center Zach Edey was ruled out for four weeks with an ankle issue.

There was some positive news elsewhere. Brandon Clarke, who has yet to play this season after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery in September, is trending toward a return.

Clarke was upgraded to doubtful before ultimately being ruled out Monday, and could be back as soon as Wednesday in Minnesota, according to Michael Wallace of Grind City Media.

Suns

The Suns are taking a cautious approach with Jalen Green as he works back from a right hamstring strain.

Coach Jordan Ott said Phoenix is playing it “pretty safe” with Green, who aggravated the injury early in the season. Ott emphasized Green’s long-term value and said the guard has made strong progress, per Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic.

Green has begun limited on-court work, and a previous report indicated he could return shortly after Christmas.

Pacers

The Pacers have officially promoted forward Gabe McGlothan from their G League affiliate, signing him to a 10-day contract via a hardship exception.

McGlothan, 26, went undrafted out of Grand Canyon in 2024 and has taken on a larger role with Indiana’s G League club this season. He is averaging 16.9 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.9 steals in 14 appearances with the Noblesville Boom.

Indiana continues to qualify for hardship exceptions due to injuries, with multiple rotation players sidelined. McGlothan will get his first opportunity at the NBA level as the Pacers work through those absences.