This is on top of Scotty Pippen Jr. being out out for at least three month s following left big toe surgery. Then there is the frontcourt, where centers Zach Edey (offseason ankle surgery) and Brandon Clarke (knee scope) are out for the opening few weeks of the season as they recover.

Morant finished Friday's 146-114 loss to the Heat with 12 points (4-16 FG, 0-4 3Pt, 4-4 FT), two rebounds and six assists over 22 minutes.

Memphis Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo trusted his players in tight spots and was rewarded in a season-opening win over the New Orleans Pelicans.