Blazers Activate Jerami Grant Ahead of Play-In Game Against Suns

Portland's star forward has been sidelined with a calf strain but is cleared to play in the crucial matchup.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game between the Portland Trail Blazers and Phoenix Suns, with the players and court fragmented into overlapping planes of vibrant colors.The high-stakes play-in tournament matchup between the Blazers and Suns is set to feature a clash of styles and star power.Today in Milwaukee

The Portland Trail Blazers have announced that forward Jerami Grant has been cleared to play in Tuesday's play-in tournament game against the Phoenix Suns. Grant has been sidelined since March 29 due to a right calf strain, missing the Blazers' last seven games. His return is a major boost for Portland as they look to secure a playoff spot.

Why it matters

The Blazers have struggled with injuries this season, including the absence of star guard Damian Lillard, who is still rehabbing a torn Achilles. Grant's two-way presence will be crucial as Portland faces a tough Phoenix team in the play-in tournament, with the winner advancing to the playoffs.

The details

Grant, who is averaging 18.6 points and 3.5 rebounds per game this season, has faced the Suns three times already, averaging 19.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 3.3 assists over those 10 games. His ability to score and defend will be key against a Phoenix team that is relatively healthy, aside from the absence of Grayson Allen due to a left hamstring injury.

  • Grant has been sidelined since March 29 with a right calf strain.
  • The Blazers face the Suns in the play-in tournament on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Jerami Grant

A star forward for the Portland Trail Blazers who has been sidelined with a calf injury but has been cleared to play in the crucial play-in tournament game against the Phoenix Suns.

Damian Lillard

The veteran star guard for the Portland Trail Blazers who is out rehabbing a torn Achilles injury sustained in the playoffs last season.

Grayson Allen

A key player for the Phoenix Suns who is dealing with left hamstring soreness and has been ruled out of the play-in tournament game against the Blazers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The winner of the Blazers-Suns play-in game will advance to the NBA playoffs.

The takeaway

The return of Jerami Grant provides a much-needed boost for the Portland Trail Blazers as they look to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. His two-way impact could be the difference-maker against a talented Phoenix Suns team.