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Over the past week, Ja Morant has been one of the biggest topics in the NBA. After posing with a gun on social media, the All-Star point guard checked into a counseling center in Florida.
It was unclear when Ja Morant was going to re-join the Memphis Grizzlies, and now we have some insight. According to recent reports, the former No. 2 pick had a meeting with commissioner Adam Silver to discuss his return.
The basis of the meeting is regarding the investigation by the league regarding the firearm. Local police launched a separate investigation and came to the decision not to charge him.
Morant has now missed five straight games since his initial suspension. In that time, the Memphis Grizzlies have a record of 3-2.
New reports also gave light on his decision to enter the counseling program. The decision came right after he put out a release that he was stepping away from the team to better himself.
A Ja Morant return completely changes things for the Memphis Grizzlies
When this news first broke, it looked as though the Memphis Grizzlies' season was going to go completely off course. With Ja Morant out of action for an unknown amount of time, they couldn't be considered real contenders.
Seeing that Morant is getting ready to get back on the court, the Grizzlies are once again a threat in the Western Conference. They currently sit in second place with a record of 41-26.
While there are multiple threats in the Western Conference, other contenders are dealing with injuries. The Phoenix Suns are without Kevin Durant until the start of the playoffs, and the Golden State Warriors just got Steph Curry back in the lineup.
If the teams around them hobble into the postseason, a door could open for the Grizzlies to make a deep run. But if they want to take advantage of this, they'll need Morant back sooner rather than later.
The ordeal might have shattered other locker rooms, but Memphis has managed to stick together. They have regularly voiced their support for Morant, seeking help, and have remained competitive in his absence. Based on how the Grizzlies remain composed, they should be able to hit the ground running when their star play can make his return.
