Depleted Grizzlies Visit Struggling Nets in Potential Upset

Memphis looks to snap three-game skid despite missing key players against Brooklyn, who will be without Michael Porter Jr.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies, missing up to 10 players, visit the struggling Brooklyn Nets, who will be without leading scorer Michael Porter Jr. Memphis enters as a narrow 1.5-point road favorite despite their lengthy injury report, while Brooklyn aims to snap a 10-game losing streak at home.

Why it matters

This matchup features two teams heading in opposite directions, with the Grizzlies fighting for playoff positioning in the West despite key injuries, while the Nets continue to flounder near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings. The outcome could have implications for the NBA's postseason picture.

The details

The Grizzlies are expected to start a lineup composed mostly of young players 23 or younger, including forwards GG Jackson, Jaylen Wells, and Olivier-Maxence Prosper, who have all stepped up since the trade deadline. Rookie guard Walter Clayton Jr., acquired from the Jazz, will likely run the backcourt. Meanwhile, the Nets will be without their leading scorer Michael Porter Jr., leaving the team's developing frontcourt of Noah Clowney and Nic Claxton to shoulder more of the offensive load.

  • Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The players

Ja Morant

The Grizzlies' star point guard is out with an elbow injury.

Michael Porter Jr.

The Nets' leading scorer at 24.3 points per game will rest for this contest.

GG Jackson

The young Grizzlies forward has stepped up in the absence of several key players, averaging over 13 points per game since the trade deadline.

Walter Clayton Jr.

The rookie guard, acquired from the Jazz, is expected to run the Grizzlies' backcourt with several key players out.

Noah Clowney

The Nets' developing frontcourt player will need to contribute more offensively with Porter Jr. sidelined.

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What they’re saying

“It speaks volumes that Memphis could be missing up to 10 players and still be favored to beat the Nets. Without Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn is a borderline JV squad — a beleaguered team that even the depleted Grizzlies roster should handle.”

— Cooper Albers, Author (draftkings.com)

What’s next

The outcome of this game could impact the NBA playoff picture, as the Grizzlies look to maintain their position in the Western Conference standings despite key injuries, while the Nets aim to snap their lengthy losing streak and build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.

The takeaway

This matchup showcases the resilience of the Grizzlies, who continue to compete despite a depleted roster, against a struggling Nets team that has fallen on hard times. The game could serve as a litmus test for both teams as they navigate the remainder of the NBA season.