The Memphis Grizzlies’ NBA title chase has been put on hold following the suspension of star point guard Ja Morant. The suspension was handed down after Morant was involved in an altercation with an opposing player during a game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Morant, who is in his second season in the NBA, has been a key part of the Grizzlies’ success this season. He is averaging 17.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 47.7 percent from the field. His play has been instrumental in helping the Grizzlies to a 30-26 record and the eighth seed in the Western Conference standings.
However, Morant’s suspension will now force the Grizzlies to play without their star point guard for the next two games. This could be a major blow to their playoff hopes as they are currently only two games ahead of the ninth-seeded San Antonio Spurs.
The Grizzlies will now have to rely on their other players to step up in Morant’s absence. This includes veteran point guard Tyus Jones, who will likely take over as the team’s starting point guard in Morant’s absence. Jones is averaging 8.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 2.3 rebounds per game this season and will need to increase his production if the Grizzlies are to remain competitive without Morant.
The Grizzlies will also need to get more production from their other players, such as forwards Kyle Anderson and Dillon Brooks, as well as center Jonas Valanciunas. All three have been key contributors for the team this season and will need to continue their strong play if the Grizzlies are to stay in the playoff hunt without Morant.
The Grizzlies’ title chase has certainly been put on hold with Morant’s suspension, but it is not over yet. If the team can get enough production from their other players and remain competitive in Morant’s absence, then they still have a chance at making a deep run in the playoffs this season.
