Morant, Aldama sidelined vs. Pels with illnesses

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Grizzlies ruled out star guard Ja Morant for Friday’s matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans because of cold symptoms.

The team also announced forward Santi Aldama, who left after playing only two quarters Wednesday in a win over Charlotte, is also out because of illness.

“We had an off day yesterday and they just reported some cold symptoms overnight,” Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said. “[They] woke up this morning. We opted for rest. Then, as the day went on, they’re definitely going to be out tonight. [We’re] hopeful for tomorrow. We’ll see how they feel.”

Multiple Grizzlies players and staff members have dealt with illnesses in recent days.

Morant, 25, ranks second in scoring (21.2 points) for Memphis but has been in and out of the lineup all season because of injuries that have limited him to 26 games.

In his fourth season, Aldama is averaging career highs in points (12.7), rebounds (6.9) and assists (2.7).