The sport that Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant loves was ripped away. The NBA announced a 25-game suspension for Morant, leaving him alone with his thoughts. Many people use sports as an escape; a precious few can play for a living. The league suspended Ja Morant for his irresponsible behavior involving guns and social media. Has he learned from his time away? Only time will tell. But for now, the NBA community rejoices in the return of a young superstar. The Ja Morant game-winner to beat the New Orleans Pelicans emphatically announced his return.
Greatness https://t.co/L5f0lEU3m7
— 8/13🕊ðŸ‡ðŸ‡¹ (@Indicurt) December 20, 2023
What We Were Missing
Before Tuesday night’s victory, the Grizzlies owned the second-worst record in the Western Conference. They were 28th in the league in points in the paint. Tickets to see Memphis games became part of promotional nights to give away tickets on the road. Pundits who watch the NBA every day tabbed Indiana Pacers point guard Tyrese Haliburton as the best young guard in the league.
Welcome back, Ja Morant! He started slow in with just seven first-half points. The Grizzlies seemed a bit disjointed. However, I credit the New Orleans Pelicans for flying off to a 24-point cushion. Morant, at times, looked completely gassed—a product of working towards game shape.
What a superb second half by the Memphis Grizzlies. Both teams, really (The Pelicans’ Brandon Ingram was also magnificent). Here is the video of the Ja Morant game-winner at the fourth-quarter buzzer.
🔥🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/7tuJklnFXC
— 8/13🕊ðŸ‡ðŸ‡¹ (@Indicurt) December 20, 2023
Both NBA nationally-televised games entertained. Ja Morant’s 34 points delivered an NBA record for most points after returning from a 25-game or more absence. The Warriors and Celtics also played an incredible overtime contest in the nightcap. These are the kind of nights the NBA needs to help broker a new TV deal.
What the Memphis Grizzlies Were Missing
The Ja Morant game-winner was incredible, but his second-half play buoyed his team in sustainable ways. The spacing created by his presence opens the floor for shooters (no pun intended). His explosive finishing ability was an enigma that the Pelicans never solved. That is signature Ja Morant stuff that the NBA is still figuring out a defense for. Additionally, Morant’s ability to throw people open improves the play of the big men. Now, players like Xavier Tillman and Bismack Biyombo will be difference-makers. Morant elevates the energy on the court to a new level. It was palpable. You could see it.
I just wanted him to have fun and he sure looked like he did.
Memphis Grizzlies’ head coach Taylor Jenkins in the post game conference on Ja Morant
The 24-point comeback was the second-largest in the NBA this season.
Memphis Grizzlies’ Playoff Hopes
The NBA has made it far simpler to make the playoff field with the new Play-In Tournament. The Grizzlies have a ton of playoff experience on the roster and were the second overall seed in the West last season. They are still missing former defensive player of the year Marcus Smart, as he is still nursing a left foot sprain. Despite the early-season losses, Morant’s absence allowed defensive-minded players like Jaren Jackson Jr. to find their offensive footing. I watched Jackson Jr. in person drop 40 points in a tough loss to the Houston Rockets. Expect the Memphis Grizzlies to hover around the play-in tournament line and be a dangerous bottom seed in the playoffs. Ja Morant’s first home game is Thursday night against Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers.
Photo Credit for featured cover image: Getty Images.
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1 Comment
Great content and read.