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Over the past few days, Ja Morant has been one of the biggest topics of conversation in the NBA. The Memphis Grizzlies recently suspended the All-Star point guard after he was seen flashing a gun while live on Instagram.
This incident is just the latest of his issues away from basketball. During the offseason, he was linked to two different assault allegations. One involved him getting into a fight and pulling a gun on a 17-year-old at his home in Memphis.
Many around the league have given their thoughts on this, but one former player gave an interesting take. During an episode of "Gil's Arena," Gilbert Arenas chimed in on the Ja Morant situation:
"I'm going to do like every owner does, pretend I don't see it ... just grow up a little bit faster."
Ja Morant has been suspended for at least two games, but that could grow depending on what happens with the league's investigation.
Gilbert Arenas offers a solution to Ja Morant dilemma
Aside from his joking comment, Gilbert Arenas gave a serious take on how to fix Ja Morant's situation. Arenas said the team needs to get someone around him whom he'll listen to and has been through something similar:
"You got to put somebody around Ja who's been the same way, and actually got out of it, safely."
While the Memphis Grizzlies have done a good job building their team, the roster is still filled with youth. Outside of Steven Adams, there aren't any veterans who can help be a voice in the locker room.
Given how young players become stars these days, having good veterans around is essential. Having a voice around that isn't a coach who can help navigate NBA life can completely change the trajectory of someone's career. With all the fame and money that comes with being a star now, it's very easy to fall into bad habits.
After Arenas made this comment, his co-host quickly suggested him as someone who could probably help Morant. Not only did he play for the Grizzlies at one point, but he's made some similar mistakes. During his time with the Washington Wizards, Arenas brought a gun into the locker room after having a disagreement with a teammate.
Morant still has a long career ahead of him. Following these latest dustups, finding a good role model could do wonders moving forward.
