Grading the Memphis Grizzlies' season entering the All-Star break

The Grizzlies are out of the playoff race with less than 30 games to go

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

The Memphis Grizzlies enter the All-Star break with a 20-33 record, 4.5 games back of the Los Angeles Clippers for the No. 10 seed in the West. They have traded away Jaren Jackson Jr. ahead of the trade deadline, and with no real incentive to win, the team's future is uncertain.

Why it matters

The Grizzlies' struggles this season have raised questions about the team's direction, with the trade of Jaren Jackson Jr. and the uncertain future of star player Ja Morant. However, the team has acquired significant draft capital that could help them rebuild in the coming years.

The details

The Grizzlies have lost 10 of their last 12 games and 13 of their last 17, putting them out of the playoff race. They have traded away Jaren Jackson Jr., a move that signals a shift in the team's direction. Meanwhile, Ja Morant's value has declined, and new coach Tuomas Iisalo has struggled in close games and against quality competition.

  • The Grizzlies enter the All-Star break with a 20-33 record.
  • They are 4.5 games back of the Los Angeles Clippers for the No. 10 seed in the West.

The players

Ja Morant

The Grizzlies' star player, whose value has declined this season.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

The Grizzlies' former player who was traded ahead of the deadline.

Tuomas Iisalo

The Grizzlies' new head coach, who has struggled in close games and against quality competition.

Zach Edey

A player who has emerged as a bright spot for the Grizzlies, but is currently out due to injury.

Cedric Coward

A player who has looked like a keeper worth building around for the Grizzlies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Grizzlies' struggles this season have forced them to make tough decisions, including trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. and facing an uncertain future with Ja Morant. However, the team has acquired significant draft capital that could help them rebuild in the coming years, and young players like Cedric Coward and Cam Spencer have shown promise. The Grizzlies will need to use the offseason to determine their long-term direction and identify the core players they want to build around.