The NBA released the 2023-24 regular-season schedule on Thursday, August 17, with the Memphis Grizzlies only getting 13 nationally televised games on either ESPN or TNT, plus six on NBA TV.
That’s way below their record 19 games on national TV and 10 NBA TV games last season.
But without franchise cornerstone, Ja Morant, who will be suspended without pay during their first 25 games, the NBA deemed the Grizzlies are not as appealing as last year.
But fret not Grizzlies fans, as there are plenty of big games, especially those played at FedExForum, to look forward to.
What home games should be considered “can’t miss” affairs for Grizzlies fans?
Here are the five key home games you should mark on your calendar.
5. October 25, 2023 vs New Orleans (Opening Night)
Even without Morant to open the season, the Grizzlies are confident they can tread the murky waters with the arrival of two key veterans.
On opening night, they will usher in a new era with a new veteran leader in Marcus Smart, the former heart and soul of the Boston Celtics.
On top of his defensive toughness, the 28-year-old guard will bring leadership and stability that was lacking last year when they folded in the first round of the playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Derrick Rose will also mark his return to his old stomping ground. He was a revered Memphis hero during his lone NCAA season with the Tigers.
These two are essentially replacing Dillon Brooks and Tyus Jones in the Grizzlies rotation. But with Morant out, Smart is expected to start at the one with Rose backing him up.
All eyes will be on these two new key additions on this night against the New Orleans Pelicans, who are hoping to parade a healthy and motivated Zion Williamson.