The most significant national story related to Tuesday’s Memphis-New Orleans game will undoubtedly be the anticipated return of Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, but the Pelicans hope to serve notice regarding their recent play by extending a four-game winning streak in the Smoothie King Center (6:30 p.m., TNT, 99.5 FM).
Both Southwest Division teams are still missing key contributors, with Memphis dealing with various DNPs beyond Morant over the first two months of the regular season, including Steven Adams, Brandon Clarke and Marcus Smart either for the entire season or recent games in Smart’s case. For New Orleans, Naji Marshall (right ankle sprain) is questionable. Kira Lewis Jr. (G League on-assignment), Larry Nance Jr. (right rib fracture) and Matt Ryan (right elbow surgery) are listed as out.
Previous Game Starting Lineups
MEMPHIS (6-18)
Friday loss vs. Houston
Derrick Rose, Desmond Bane, Vince Williams Jr., Jaren Jackson Jr., Bismack Biyombo
Note: The Grizzlies will be playing the second game of a back-to-back set Tuesday. Memphis visits Oklahoma City on Monday.
NEW ORLEANS (16-11)
Sunday win at San Antonio
CJ McCollum, Herb Jones, Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, Jonas Valanciunas
Season Series
Oct. 25: New Orleans 111, at Memphis 104
Dec. 19: at New Orleans, 6:30 p.m. (TNT)
Dec. 26: at New Orleans, 7 p.m. (Bally Sports)
Feb. 12: at Memphis, 7 p.m. (Bally Sports)