Grizzlies Face Hawks in First Matchup of the Season Without Star Ja Morant

Memphis aims to extend its strong form while Atlanta looks to recover from recent defensive struggles.

The Memphis Grizzlies (19-9) will play the Atlanta Hawks (14-14) on the road Saturday, marking the first meeting between the teams this season.
Memphis star Ja Morant will miss the game due to back soreness sustained in Thursday’s win, while Marcus Smart is questionable with a shoulder injury.
The Hawks’ Trae Young is listed as questionable with a heel contusion, and the team will also be without backups Onyeka Okongwu and Kobe Bufkin.
Memphis is coming off a dominant 144-93 victory over the Golden State Warriors, where they set a franchise record with 27 three-pointers.
Atlanta has struggled defensively, allowing over 130 points in three of their last five games, and is seeking to bounce back after consecutive losses.