The Memphis Grizzlies and their fans have been eagerly waiting for news on their star player Ja Morant’s return. Recently, Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins shared insights on Morant’s positive progress during the suspension period. Morant has been actively involved in the team’s training sessions, impressing everyone with his commitment and performance.
According to Jenkins, Morant has been participating in 5-on-5 practice games and is expected to be fully prepared for his return. “He’s been unbelievable with the process,” Jenkins stated, emphasizing the athlete’s dedication throughout his suspension. The Grizzlies have planned an entire schedule to ensure Morant’s smooth integration into the team’s lineup.
The highlight of Jenkins’ statement was when he said: “I expect him [Morant] to be full go come game 26.” This projection brings some hope to the Grizzlies, who have been struggling with their play-in spot in the Western Conference. Morant’s return is seen as crucial for the team’s chances of making a push in the current season and improving their standing.
Adam Silver says Ja Morant is ready to make a basketball comeback
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has recently expressed a positive stand on Ja Morant’s upcoming return to professional basketball. Following his 25-game suspension for two gun-related incidents earlier in the year, Morant seems to have fulfilled the league’s conditions for his return.
Speaking ahead of the In-Season Tournament Finals, Silver stated that the league officials, including himself, are scheduled to meet with Morant to discuss his return. “We intend to have a check-in this week directly,” Silver stated. He added that the league, the Players Association, and Morant’s team have been in regular contact, laying out a program for his comeback. Silver confirmed that Morant has fulfilled all requirements.
Adam Silver says he’s meeting with Ja Morant next week to make sure everything is good to go for him to come back from his 25 game suspension #nba pic.twitter.com/t8lLeifA3L
— Robert Littal BSO (@BSO) December 10, 2023
Morant is eligible to return to the court on December 19 against the New Orleans Pelicans and is expected to play his first home game of the season on December 21 against the Indiana Pacers.
How have the Memphis Grizzlies been performing without Ja Morant?
In Ja Morant’s absence, the Memphis Grizzlies have faced a tough season. They are currently positioned 13th in the Western Conference with a 6-15 record. The team’s offensive abilities have notably declined without Morant. Last season, he averaged 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 8.1 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game.
The Grizzlies’ offensive rating has dropped to 106.8, placing them near the bottom of the NBA. Their difficulties are made worse by the absence of key players like Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke, impacting their rebounding strength, where they previously ranked second in the league. These issues have raised questions about their chances of making the playoffs in a tough Western Conference.