The Memphis Grizzlies and Orlando Magic close out their two-game European slate on Sunday with a rare regular-season NBA matchup in London. After Orlando took the opener in Berlin, attention now turns to the rematch at the O2 Arena — and to the biggest question surrounding it: will Ja Morant be back on the floor? Below is everything you need to know, including how to watch, start time, injury updates, and why this game is being played overseas in the first place. For more daily NBA coverage, visit our basketball section.
Game: Memphis Grizzlies vs Orlando Magic
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
Start time: 11:00 a.m. CT
Venue: O2 Arena, London
This is a regular-season NBA game with full standings implications. Check the official listing on NBA.com schedule.
How to watch:
- Streaming: Prime Video
- TV: Not nationally televised
International game availability can vary by region—confirm the stream inside the Prime Video app.
Why is the NBA playing Grizzlies vs Magic in London?
While the setting may feel unusual on a January calendar, the London backdrop is part of a deliberate strategy rather than a novelty. The NBA has increasingly scheduled regular-season games outside North America as part of its long-term effort to grow the sport globally. These aren’t exhibitions—results count in the standings, and teams must manage travel, routines, and preparation in a compressed window.
London is one of the NBA’s key international markets, and the league typically pairs these games with fan events and grassroots programming. If you’re tracking the broader slate of games and times, the easiest way is to use the official NBA schedule and the live hub on NBA Scores.
Will Ja Morant play?
The signs are encouraging for Memphis. Ja Morant is listed as probable after missing six games with a right calf contusion, a designation that strongly suggests he could return for the London finale.
Grizzlies injury report:
- Ja Morant — probable (calf)
- Santi Aldama — questionable (calf)
Magic injury report:
- No major rotation changes from the Berlin game
Morant’s availability would significantly alter Memphis’ offensive ceiling. Even with potential minute restrictions, his presence changes how Orlando must defend late-clock situations and transition attacks.
What happened in the first meeting?
Orlando earned a 118–111 win in Berlin on January 15, controlling key stretches of the game. Paolo Banchero and Anthony Black both scored more than 20 points, while Franz Wagner closed strongly, scoring 11 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter.
Memphis, playing without Morant, struggled to generate consistent offense when the game tightened. For real-time updates during the rematch, use NBA.com live scores.
Why the rematch could look different
Seeing the same opponent twice in Europe compresses the adjustment window. International settings often create different rhythms, and quick tactical changes matter more than usual—especially late in quarters.
If Morant plays, Memphis gains pace and unpredictability. If he doesn’t, Orlando’s continuity and confidence from the opener once again give the Magic a clear edge.
Prediction
Expect a more competitive game if Morant returns, especially early. Without him, Orlando’s balance and late-game execution should again prove decisive.
Projected outcome: The result hinges on Morant’s availability, with Orlando holding the advantage if Memphis remains short-handed.
Watching from outside North America? Check your region’s stream inside Prime Video, and follow the official game flow via NBA Scores.
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