Grizzlies Struggle Without Santi Aldama's Offensive Spark

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Memphis Grizzlies are facing mounting difficulties as Santi Aldama's ongoing right knee injury sidelines him at a critical moment. With the team trailing the Clippers by 5.5 games for the final play-in spot before the All-Star break, Aldama's absence compounds their struggle to reverse recent losses and regain momentum.

Why it matters

The combination of injuries and roster changes has left Memphis with limited offensive firepower, particularly in clutch situations. Despite strong effort levels in recent games, the Grizzlies have failed to convert that energy into consistent wins due to scoring deficits. Santi Aldama's injury remains an underrated yet crucial factor behind Memphis's recent struggles, highlighting the urgent need for his return to improve their playoff positioning and competitiveness moving forward.

The details

Aldama began experiencing issues with his right knee last month, missing multiple games including January home contests versus the Hawks and Pelicans. After a brief return against the Rockets on January 26, he again missed five straight games before appearing on February 4 against the Kings, shortly after the Jaren Jackson Jr. trade. Since then, Aldama has been out for the last four games, and his comeback is now not expected until after the All-Star hiatus. While the trade of Jaren Jackson Jr. grabbed headlines, the departure of Jock Landale further depleted Memphis's frontcourt options. The Grizzlies are also coping with Brandon Clarke and Zach Edey still recovering from injuries sustained in December, leaving their big man rotation critically undermanned.

• Aldama began experiencing right knee issues last month.
• Aldama missed multiple games in January, including contests versus the Hawks and Pelicans.
• Aldama briefly returned against the Rockets on January 26 before missing five straight games.
• Aldama appeared against the Kings on February 4 but has since missed the last four games.
• Aldama's comeback is not expected until after the All-Star break.