Losing $7,084,427 Doesn’t Cost Ja Morant’s NBA All-Star Spot as the 24-Year-Old Remains the Only Grizzlies Star to Make the First Cut

In May 2023, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant found himself on the wrong side of the NBA rules, when he brandished a firearm on Instagram Live. The league handed Morant a 25-game suspension for “conduct detrimental to the league”. The suspension has cost him approximately $7,084,427 in missed match fees. However, that episode is in the past and Ja Morant has cracked on with basketball.

Morant made a sensational comeback, as he led the Grizzlies to a four-game winning streak in his first four games back in action. Due to his incredible return, Ja has retained his All-Star spot in the first cut.

Despite playing just eight games this season, fans voted Ja Morant into the All-Star list. In fact, he remains the only Grizzlies player to make the first cut. Talented teammates like Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. have been snubbed by the fans. Although their dismal record might have something to do with it. The Grizzlies currently occupy the 13th spot in the Western Conference standings, having won just 11 matches and losing another 23. However, with Morant in the lineup, the Grizzlies have won five out of their last eight matches.

Morant making the first cut for the All-Star game further emphasizes his star power. Morant accumulated 288,667 votes, ranking as the seventh-highest among guards. He received more votes than players in good form, such as De’Aaron Fox and Austin Reaves. He has captivated basketball fans with his incredible handles and thunderous dunks. Many people have backed Ja Morant to become the face of the league. However, in order to achieve that, Morant must remain out of trouble. His otherworldly abilities would be challenged as he aims to complete an improbable turnaround.

Can Morant lead the Grizzlies to the playoffs?

There’s no hiding the fact that the Memphis Grizzlies have been abysmal this season. Morant’s 25-game suspension has had a massive impact on their season. However, with Morant back, the Grizzlies must pick up wins regularly if they still harbor ambitions of a playoff spot. The Grizzlies must promptly address some of the glaring issues within their roster.

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Despite having talented offensive players like Bane and Morant, the Grizzlies have the worst offense in the league. They have recorded a defensive rating of 106.7. Furthermore, the Grizzlies have also struggled from deep. They have shot 33.3% from beyond the arc, which is the worst in the league. Ja Morant’s return will offer a lift, but the Grizzlies may find it challenging to climb out of the hole they’ve dug for themselves. Can Ja lead the Grizzlies to the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below!

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