Out of all the teams in the West, who do you think is the most neglected so far? Well, it’s none other than the Grizzlies and their star player has just sent a message to the league. Ja Morant almost missed an entire season, but is now on the verge of his comeback. The 25-year-old guard played 9 games last year after serving a 25-game suspension but was injured shortly after. Morant’s shoulder injury was alarming for the Grizzlies, as he’d go on to miss the rest of the season. But how did this affect Memphis?

For the most part, Morant’s injury was followed by Bane’s ankle injury and Marcus Smart also suffered a finger injury before the first half of the season. This left Jaren Jackson Jr. to take matters into his own hands, being the only star player on the roster. Despite his efforts, the Grizzlies had the third-worst record in the league, 27-55. But on the bright side, Memphis will not only see Morant returning to the roster. Smart and Bane will also be making their return, solidifying the Grizzlies’ redemption season.

Ja Morant on the other hand, recently dropped a comeback teaser, “What it takes to win,” featuring his offseason workouts. This comes after his newly released signature shoes, Nike Ja 2. There are a few colorways that dropped just recently, “Murray State” paying tribute to his college days along with “Night Vision” colorway. It is safe to say that Ja is all set with his gear for the upcoming season, as his return was indeed much anticipated.

Ever since the unfortunate injuries, the Grizzlies faded in the Western standings. But all was not lost, as Memphis managed to bag the ninth pick in this year’s draft. The big man from Purdue, Zach Edey, is one of the most anticipated rookies to step on the NBA hardwood. Nevertheless, before the 2022-23 season, the Grizzlies were among some of the serious contenders. Back in 2022, Morant and company made it to the second round where they’d fight the Warriors till six games.

In the following year, the Grizzlies went up against the Lakers in the first round. This series would feature a tough competition between the two teams with Dillon Brooks shining the most. While this was his last season in Memphis, the front office compensated his spot by adding Marcus Smart. However, are the Grizzlies ready for the competitive atmosphere in the West? Yes, the squad will make a case for the top 6 seed if all goes well, but then again, Memphis will also face some fresh talent.

What can Ja Morant and company expect in the upcoming season?

The Thunder and the Wolves recently rose to the top while Memphis was in the middle of an injury-ridden season. Not only that, but the Pelicans are also making their way to stand among playoff contenders. The Grizzlies will be one of the teams to look out for, being back in full strength, but it would take them a lot to clinch a playoff berth. Ja Morant averaged 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 8.1 assists while shooting over 46% from the field during the 2022-23 season.

Now, the 6-foot-2 guard isn’t the best shooter, but guys like Smart, Bane, and Kennard can fill in to shoot the three-ball. Ranking among the top 6 in the West will be a heavy task. However, this will be their redemption arc after all. Teams like the Nuggets, OKC, the Wolves, the Mavs, and the Suns have made a strong case to top the West. Going up against them will be a tough one, but quite frankly, Memphis has all the talent required. It will be interesting to see Morant and the Grizzlies make a strong comeback, as they hope to establish themselves as a contender this year.

What are your thoughts on Ja Morant’s return? Do you think the Grizzlies can finish top six in the West? Let us know in the comments.

Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.