Grizzlies Sign 2 Free Agents Under Hardship Rule

The Memphis Grizzlies, facing a slew of injuries, while also missing star Ja Morant, still out due to a 25-game suspension, have been granted two hardship exceptions, leading to the signing of two free agent guards. 

ESPN Sources: The Memphis Grizzlies plan to sign guards Shaq Harrison and Jaylen Nowell with two newly awarded hardship 10-day contracts. The NBA approved the hardship roster spots after Memphis had five injured players ruled out over the next two-plus weeks.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 23, 2023

Shaq Harrison and Jaylen Nowell have each signed 10-day contracts with Memphis. Harrison, 30, was at Grizzlies camp during the summer but was released, while Nowell, 24, had been playing in the G League for the Sacramento Kings affiliate in Stockton. Their additions will at least allow the Grizz to field a roster to compete in its upcoming games. 

In addition to the season-ending injury to center Steven Adams, and a long-term absence for forward Brandon Clarke, they've now also lost guards Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, and forwards Xavier Tillman and Jake LaRavia. 

Adrian Wojnarowski says the NBA approved the hardship roster spots because the Grizzlies had five players who are out for at least the next two weeks.

The Grizzlies have had a woeful start to the season, with a 3-11 mark, placing them second from the bottom in the Western Conference. 

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