Aldama was the replacement in the Grizzlies’ starting lineup for Ja Morant, who sat out with a hip contusion. The fourth-year forward played well, shooting efficiently and providing value as a rebounder. The 2024-25 season was a good one for Aldama, who had his moments after being considered little more than a late-round option in the fall. He finished just outside the top-100 in eight- and nine-cat formats, providing greater value in the latter. Aldama will be a restricted free agent this summer.

The Grizzlies will look to keep their season alive despite not having Ja Morant, who’s out with a hip injury. Aldama is his replacement in the starting lineup, providing additional frontcourt size. In addition to Aldama’s move into the starting five, John Konchar and Luke Kennard should figure more prominently in the rotation.

Aldama was one of two Grizzlies reserves to score and one of four players to make two three-pointers. His 31 minutes played were the fourth-highest on the team, which could signal that he’ll be a significant part of Memphis’ game plan moving forward. The Grizzlies will look to score their first win of the series on Thursday in Memphis in Game 3.

Aldama and Kennard will sit on Sunday like a slew of other key Grizzlies players. Cam Spencer, Lamar Stevens, and GG Jackson will get an opportunity to shine on Sunday against Dallas.