Is James Harden Playing Tonight Against Memphis Grizzlies? Clippers Star Injured on Trade Eligibility Day (Dec. 15)

James Harden could miss Monday's contest between the LA Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies. The All-Star has made an unexpected appearance on the team's injury report ahead of this clash. Harden is questionable citing a left calf contusion. Interestingly, it's also the day he's become trade eligible.

While it's likelier that Harden's injury report has nothing to do with his trade eligibility, it has caused quite the stir online. The Clippers have dropped to 6-19 amid a majorly disappointing season in which they were expected to compete with the best teams in the Western Conference.

Meanwhile, Harden has performed at an All-Star level, averaging a team-high 26.6 points and 8.2 assists per game. It fueled speculation around his future in LA. The Clippers don't have control over their 2026 draft pick, so they should sell high on Harden and get some assets in return, which they can build around.

James Harden Stats vs. Memphis Grizzlies

James Harden has played 52 games against the Grizzlies, averaging 23.0 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 6.7 apg. He's shot 43.8%, including 40.2% from beyond the arc. In the 2025-26 season, Harden has averaged 20.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 9.0 apg in two games between the Clippers and Grizzlies. However, the Clippers lost both games.

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Harden is -119 to score over 24.5 points and -118 to record over eight assists. The Clippers will hope he's active as they don't have a reliable shot creator to replace him in the lineup.

How to watch Memphis Grizzlies vs. LA Clippers game?

FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (Memphis) and FanDuel Sports Network SoCal (LA) will provide live coverage of the Memphis Grizzlies vs. LA Clippers game. Viewers outside the local regions can catch live action online via NBA League Pass from 10:30 p.m. onwards.

The Clippers are three-point favorites despite their underwhelming record and James Harden's potential absence. The Grizzlies are 11-14 but 5-7 on the road.

Edited by Arhaan Raje