Grizzlies' Backcourt Shakeup: Scotty Pippen Jr. Toe Surgery

Merlin sees the Grizzlies will open the season without a key reserve: Scotty Pippen Jr. "will have surgery on his left big toe injury and will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks," per reports. Pippen, who played 79 games last year and averaged 9.9 points and 4.4 assists, had become a reliable everyday piece. Memphis added Ty Jerome in free agency — likely the primary backup to Ja Morant — so Pippen’s role was already set to shrink, but his early absence still leaves the Grizzlies thinner in the backcourt just as Morant deals with a sprained ankle. Merlin senses this is a test of depth and timing. Jerome brings veteran scoring and playmaking, but he’s not a one-for-one replacement for Pippen’s defensive activity and chemistry. If Morant stays healthy, Memphis can weather a slow start; if not, the team could look jittery until Pippen returns.