Bulls Thin at Center, Grizzlies Short on Depth in Preseason Meeting

Chicago's frontcourt questions and Memphis's ankle concerns make this preseason game a depth test.

MEM @ CHI Oct 10, 2026 at 12:00 AM UTC

The biggest storyline in Chicago is at center. Nic Claxton is dealing with a tweaked hamstring and is unlikely to play, with one source listing an expected return of Oct. 21, well after this preseason game. Without him, the Bulls lose their anchor in the middle, and the minutes will go to whoever fills the gap. That makes Zach Collins' status important. He is a game-time decision with a toe injury, and if he sits, Chicago's frontcourt gets very thin.

The backcourt also has a question. Tre Jones is questionable with a hip issue, and his absence would change who runs the Bulls' guard rotation. A preseason game like this often turns on which reserves are ready to take on larger roles, and Chicago could have several of them on the floor early.

Memphis has its own concerns. Isaiah Stewart is a game-time decision with an ankle injury, and his availability shapes how the Grizzlies defend in the frontcourt. Micah Peavy is also game-time with an ankle issue, and Richie Saunders is out with a knee injury. That leaves Memphis thin on the perimeter, so depth players will probably see real minutes.

Both teams are dealing with similar problems, but Chicago's are concentrated at center, where Claxton is unlikely to play and Collins is uncertain. Memphis can absorb a missing wing or two more easily than Chicago can absorb a missing big. Even so, I give a slight edge to the Bulls in what should be a choppy, rotation-heavy game. The home team gets a small lift from familiarity with its own building. If the Grizzlies get Stewart back, they could make it close late.

Prediction: Bulls 108, Grizzlies 105.

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