The Utah Jazz are set to kick off the 2024-25 NBA season at home against the Memphis Grizzlies this Wednesday, but they will not be without injury challenges. Guard Isaiah Collier and forward Johnny Juzang have both been ruled out for the opener.
Despite these absences, the Jazz’s main rotations from the preseason are expected to remain largely unchanged. Collier, who had been serving as the backup point guard prior to a hamstring injury, performed well during exhibition games, averaging 4.25 assists over four contests. With Collier sidelined, veteran Patty Mills, signed during the offseason, is likely to step in and take over his minutes. The team has not provided a timeline for Collier’s return.
Juzang, a third-year player from UCLA who shot over 50% from three-point range during limited preseason action, was already outside of Utah’s regular rotation. He signed a fully guaranteed contract with the Jazz this offseason, but no return date has been announced for him either.
On the other side, the Memphis Grizzlies will face a more extensive injury report to start the season. Key players including Jaren Jackson Jr., GG Jackson, Luke Kennard, Cam Spencer, and Vince Williams Jr. are all listed as out for the game on Wednesday. This combination of injuries on both teams could significantly impact their performances as they begin the new season.
