As the Portland Trail Blazers prepare for their Sunday night road matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, the team faces significant lineup uncertainty due to a lengthy injury list that could impact their rotation. With both teams looking to gain ground in the Western Conference, Portland’s availability concerns may play a defining role in the outcome.
Trail Blazers enter Memphis clash with key injuries
Portland arrives in Memphis carrying a 9-14 record after falling to the Detroit Pistons on Friday night. Despite a standout effort from Deni Avdija—who delivered 35 points, nine rebounds and seven assists—and Jerami Grant’s strong 29-point performance, the Trail Blazers were unable to secure a win on the road. Their challenge now grows tougher as they confront health setbacks ahead of Sunday’s contest.
Portland Trail Blazers have listed six players on their latest injury report, headlined by center Donovan Clingan. The young big man is officially questionable with a lower left leg contusion, placing him at risk of missing his second straight game. His absence would once again force Portland to adjust its frontcourt rotation on short notice.
Potential lineup shifts if Clingan sits
Should Clingan be unable to suit up, Robert Williams III is positioned to step back into the starting lineup. Williams’ defensive presence and rebounding would be crucial against a Memphis squad entering the matchup with a 10-13 record and fresh momentum after a win over the Clippers. Additionally, Duop Reath is expected to see expanded minutes off the bench, giving Portland another interior option to stabilize their rotation.
Five players already ruled out
Beyond Clingan’s uncertain status, the Trail Blazers have confirmed that several key contributors will not play. Jrue Holiday, Damian Lillard, Matisse Thybulle, Scoot Henderson and Blake Wesley have all been ruled out as they continue recovering from their respective injuries. Their prolonged absence significantly reduces Portland’s depth across multiple positions, adding pressure on the remaining healthy core to carry the load.
With limited personnel and critical players sidelined, Portland Trail Blazers will look to Avdija, Grant and the supporting cast to anchor Sunday’s effort.