Gilbert Arenas’ Prediction Could Mean Bad News for Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley

The Memphis Grizzlies are in dire straights. While many factors play a role in their relative mediocrity, the biggest is the absence of Ja Morant. The 25-game suspension for the young superstar has led to disastrous results for his team. However, his return is almost upon us. With the 26th game in the Grizzlies calendar occurring on December 19th, the wait might be over. Almost. According to Gilbert Arenas, that night will not be when Morant returns to the court. That could lead to some less-than-ideal scenarios for Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley.

The Return of the King might have to wait before it becomes a reality for fans in Memphis. Arenas, who had his share of legal troubles, has been outspoken in supporting the 24-year-old. So, his excitement over Ja’s return is understandable.

“NBA, I’m telling you right now. Ja Morant’s coming home, baby! He’s coming home.” But, there is a reason why the 3x All-Star believes he isn’t returning on December 19th. “But he ain’t coming home on the road. December 19th.“

“So you might as well take that f***ing game off TNT. You gotta come to Memphis. NBA, y’all can beg this man all you want. But you already on his bad side.” The reason is simple. A return of this magnitude needs to happen at home. And if this comes to fruition, O’Neal and Barkley, who have been open with their criticism of the 24-year-old, will have to wait to scrutinize Morant.

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“He gonna play at home. I’m not going to play my first game out of suspension on the road…So Pelicans, y’all are not going to get Ja Morant when he’s done. So y’all can take that game off TNT right now.”

At 4-13, time is running out for the Memphis Grizzlies. Could a one-game delay define their playoff chances? Either way, the TNT crew could have to wait to dig into the Ja Morant situation.

Where do Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley stand on the Ja Morant situation?

Both Shaq and Barkley have made their criticisms of the 2x All-Star public information. While O’Neal has been a touch measured in his approach, Charles Barkley hasn’t shied in calling out Morant.

At one point, the Philadelphia 76ers legend even called him a “fool”. On the other hand, Shaq has taken a relatively wise approach. Instead of attacking the Grizzlies superstar, he’s trying to show the opportunities that could potentially go away.

With the return of Ja being a big talking point in the coming month, maybe a delay could bring further anticipation for when the legends do dissect the situation.

Read More: After $39,000,000 Hit to His Paycheck, Ja Morant Gets a Stern Lesson From Shaquille O’Neal: “Wouldn’t Get Those Opportunities Back”