Portland moves veteran forward to second unit
The Portland Trail Blazers will open the season Wednesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a revamped starting lineup that leaves Jerami Grant coming off the bench for the first time since the 2019-20 campaign in Denver. Head coach Chauncey Billups is expected to start Jrue Holiday and Shaedon Sharpe in the backcourt, flank Toumani Camara and Deni Avdija at the forward spots, and install rookie Donovan Clingan at center.
Grant, 31, has started all 164 games since arriving from Detroit in 2022, averaging 18.9 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists. The Blazers’ second-highest-paid player is guaranteed through 2027 and still has three years and $102 million remaining on his contract. Although he said on media day he “didn’t really expect” a reserve role, the forward added he would accept whatever best serves the team. Portland views Camara and Avdija—both under long-term deals—as key building blocks and could explore trade scenarios involving Grant as the season develops.
Grizzlies exercise option on Edey, announce additional injuries
The Memphis Grizzlies have picked up Zach Edey’s 2026-27 team option, locking in the third year of his rookie contract at $6.33 million. Edey averaged 9.2 points and 8.3 rebounds across 66 games last season before undergoing ankle surgery in June.
In other medical updates, guard Scotty Pippen Jr. had surgery on his left big toe and will miss at least 12 weeks. Pippen became a steady rotation contributor last year, posting 9.9 points and 4.4 assists over 79 appearances.
Injuries remain a theme in Memphis. Edey and Brandon Clarke are still rehabbing, Ja Morant is dealing with an ankle sprain that could linger into opening week, and Ty Jerome is sidelined by a calf strain. Jaren Jackson Jr. is expected to be available after turf-toe issues, while Cam Spencer and two-way rookie Javon Small are next in line for backcourt minutes.
Tari Eason heads toward restricted free agency
After failing to reach an extension before Monday’s deadline, Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason said he still intends to stay with the franchise long term. “Houston’s been like home and family to me since day one,” the 23-year-old told reporters.
Eason was among several players considered extension candidates after the club reached a new deal with Kevin Durant over the weekend, but the two sides could not bridge the gap. He will play out the season and enter restricted free agency next summer. “It’s business. It’s nothing personal,” Eason said. “I’m here to win a championship with Houston. That’s my main focus.”
The Rockets continue to view Eason as a core piece alongside Durant, Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith Jr., and a breakout year could set him up for a larger contract in 2025.
Source: Hoops Wire
