The Memphis Grizzlies have been plagued by injuries since the start of the 2025-2026 season. Ja Morant's inability to stay healthy on the court has ironically been a consistent stable during his tenure with the team.
The offseason acquisition of Ty Jerome raises doubts about whether he’ll be able to provide the offensive firepower since he hasn’t made his debut due to a high-grade right calf strain. Scotty Pippen Jr. Is out with a left big toe injury and is expected to return by January.
As if that wasn’t enough, Jaren Jackson Jr. Hasn’t maintained the high-level production he did last season and is currently finding his rhythm.
If the Grizzlies have any plans to participate in this year’s playoffs, their role players need to step up and fill in the void. Luckily for them, one of the most promising candidates comes in the form of Jaylen Wells.
Grizzlies' Rising Star
Despite being drafted in the second round, Wells has been able to prove to the franchise that he’s able to play an essential role with the team offensively and defensively. During his last 10 games, he’s averaging about 15 points, shooting 45% from the field while snagging 1.4 steals.
His last two games have been duds, with him shooting 20% against the Washington Wizards and 31% against the Oklahoma City Thunder last night.
However, expect him to turn up the level with a favorable match-up against the Utah Jazz tonight. He is the team’s rising star and has been granted more opportunities with a seemingly depleted roster, so with his style of play, there won’t be too many games where he’ll have off-days.