NBA Player News

Barnes is questionable for Thursday's game against the Nuggets due to a left ankle impingement, Jared Weiss of The Athletic reports.

Barnes is hoping to end a five-game absence caused by the injury. Another absence for Barnes on Thursday would leave the door open for both Keldon Johnson and Dylan Harper to play an expanded role off the bench.

Aldama (knee) is out for Thursday's game versus the Mavericks.

Aldama will miss his 16th straight game Thursday due to right knee injury management. He appeared to be moving closer to a return earlier this month, as the Grizzlies had listed him as questionable ahead of a March 3 game against the Timberwolves and even upgraded him to available for a brief period of time before downgrading him to out 30 minutes prior to opening tip. Since that contest, he hasn't been listed as anything other than out in advance of the Grizzlies' ensuing five games, which suggests he may have experienced a setback in the rehab process. The Grizzlies haven't provided further word on Aldama's status, so he can likely be viewed as doubtful for the second leg of the team's back-to-back set Friday in Detroit.

Spencer is questionable for Thursday's game against the Mavericks due to lower-back soreness.

Spencer is at risk of missing the first leg of this back-to-back. The Grizzlies could need each of Javon Small, Jahmai Mashack and Rayan Rupert to play a significant role in the backcourt Thursday.

Gibson (reconditioning) is doubtful for Thursday's game against the Mavericks.

Gibson has yet to make his debut for the Grizzlies, but he's not expected to be a significant part of the rotation. Check back for official confirmation on his status closer to Thursday's tip.

Coward is listed as doubtful for Thursday's game against Dallas due to right knee injury management.

Coward is likely to be held out of the opening leg of the Grizzlies' back-to-back set for rest purposes. With several of Coward's teammates also listed as out or doubtful, Memphis could be forced to lean on Javon Small, Cam Spencer (back), Jahmai Mashack and Rayan Rupert in the backcourt.

Clayton (ankle) is doubtful for Thursday's game versus the Mavericks.

Clayton is on track to miss his second straight game Thursday, but maybe he'll be able to get back out there for Friday's game in Detroit. Ty Jerome (calf) and Cedric Coward (knee) are also doubtful to play and Scotty Pippen (toe) has already been ruled out, so Cam Spencer figures to see major minutes Thursday evening.

Jerome is doubtful for Thursday's game against the Mavericks due to right calf injury management.

The Grizzlies are expected to keep Jerome from playing the first half of their back-to-back. Javon Small, Jahmai Mashack and Rayan Rupert should soak up extra minutes for a depleted Memphis group Thursday.

Thompson is out for Thursday's game against the 76ers with a right ankle sprain.

Thompson is missing a fourth consecutive contest Thursday. His next chance to play comes on a short turnaround Friday against the Grizzlies. Marcus Sasser will likely continue to start at shooting guard for the Pistons until Thompson is cleared to retake the floor.

LeVert (wrist) is doubtful to play Thursday against the 76ers.

LeVert is on track to miss his third straight game Thursday, which should continue to lead to more opportunities for Javonte Green and Kevin Huerter. Check back for official word on LeVert closer to Thursday's tip.

Watkins (ankle/foot) is off the injury report for Thursday's game against Orlando.

Watkins is set to return from a four-game absence due to a sprained ankle and foot. The rookie wing is averaging 5.9 points and 3.5 rebounds across 18.7 minutes per game this season.