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Monday night marks the first time Ja Morant is eligible to play for the Memphis Grizzlies after serving an eight-game suspension handed down by the NBA. Morant had already missed four games when the league punishment was officially given to the All-Star point guard.
“G12” hasn’t seen action since March 3 in the Grizzlies’ 113-97 loss to the Denver Nuggets. After the game, he went to a nightclub where he posted a video of himself on Instagram brandishing a gun.
Morant apologized and vowed to seek help as he tried the process of “healing.” He reportedly went to Florida to go to a counseling facility. The Memphis Grizzlies' franchise player eventually traveled to New York where he had a dialog with NBA commissioner Adam Silver.
Silver released a statement applauding Morant’s acceptance of his actions and assertion to be smarter and better than before.
Morant, however, will not suit up yet for the Memphis Grizzlies. After sitting out eight games, he needs to ramp up his conditioning. The team doesn’t want to let an injury happen to him now that he’s ready and raring to play.
What is Ja Morant’s status tonight against the Dallas Mavericks?
The Memphis Grizzlies have ruled out Morant for their last head-to-head matchup against the Dallas Mavericks this season. He will not be with the team as he tries to ramp up his conditioning for the pressure-packed stretch of the regular season.
The Grizzlies will reportedly look at Morant’s status on a day-to-day basis. He could return as soon as Wednesday when the Houston Rockets are in town. If he’s not available still, Morant could suit up on Friday for a rematch with the Rockets.
Regardless of when he returns, the Memphis Grizzlies don’t want to run the risk of causing an injury due to lack of basketball conditioning.
Also read: Ja Morant mall incident: What exactly happened between him and mall security?
What is Ja Morant’s impact on the Memphis Grizzlies?
The Memphis Grizzlies (43-27) are only 9-8 this season without Ja Morant. The two-time All-Star is easily their best and most impactful player. Morant is someone they don’t have a ready replacement for him despite Tyus Jones’ recent impressive form.
“G12” is averaging 27.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.1 steals in 53 games. He is also one of the NBA’s most ferocious rim attackers, setting the tone for the Grizzlies’ aggressiveness.
Morant is arguably why the Grizzlies have been near the top of the Western Conference for almost the entire season.
You may also like to read: "And so it begins": Ja Morant Powerade deal in jeopardy as brand deletes Instagram commercial
Guess the Lakers players!
