Matt Barnes Overlooks 25YO NBA Star’s Multiple Suspensions as MVP Hopes Rises

Three times in the past four years Nikola Jokic has been the NBA MVP, but will he repeat? Well, at least Matt Barnes has placed his bets on a different name. However, it’s not as if he denied Joker’s claim to the title. But just named someone who he sees as the next face for the title.

The discussion emerged on an episode of The Rich Eisen Show when Barnes asked for his pick for next season’s MVP. “I’m going to go on a wild one and say if he can stay healthy because he has so much pent up… Ja Morant… People forget… what kind of level and how we were talking about him before… I think he’s coming back with a chip on his shoulder,” the ex-NBA star replied.

Notably, former Memphis Grizzlies star and Ja Morant‘s agent also, as per an article by Commercial Appeal, made a declaration of sorts that G12 is quite motivated for the upcoming season after facing a host of setbacks.

Started with the 8-game suspension in season 2023 after the firearms incident back in March 2023 and was followed with a 25-game suspension in 2024, for a similar reason. And even after returning to the league, he would face a season-ending injury in 2024.

It’s being said that Morant’s newfound motivation stems from these instances itself. Seemingly, the idea that people have forgotten about his potential is unsettling for Ja. For someone who averaged 25+ points per game two consecutive seasons, displayed well-balanced rebounding as well as playmaking skills, and emerged as the most improved player, the feeling is understandable. Something that even Matt Barnes highlighted on The Rich Eisen Show. 

However, apart from G12’s health, Barnes’ only concern is if the Memphis Grizzlies can do what they need to for things to happen for them as well as Morant.

Well, at least the odd-makers don’t seem to favor neither the Grizzlies nor the 2x All Star. G12 stands as low as at the 10th spot with +3400 odds (as per FanDuel). And Grizzlies themselves are no better as of now. The return of Morant and Desmond Bane from injury could be a console but the team now misses key pieces from the time when they ranked in conference standings in season 2022 and 2023.

This includes players like Dillon Brooks, Steven Adams and Tyus Jones. And thus the Grizzlies stand at 6th spot among the odd-makers to win the Western Conference. Despite all of this, Barnes stating Morant as his MVP speaks volumes about his faith. However, this is not the first time that the ex-NBA star has rooted for the Grizzlies guard.

Matt Barnes claimed Ja Morant will be in the next wave of point guards

During a 2022 appearance on NBA on ESPN, Barnes gave us something to think about when he was asked where Morant stands among the league’s best point guards. He didn’t hesitate to point out that G12 is part of the “next wave of point guards”.

But not without acknowledging that the legends like Steph Curry, Damian Lillard, Kyrie Irving, and Chris Paul still hold their ground. The ex-Lakers star mentioned that the Grizzlies guard has reserved his place among the point guards of the next generation. What really grabs attention is how Barnes highlighted Morant’s mindset.

According to Matt, the 2x All-Star looks at the veteran players as “lunch”. Meaning he’s more than ready to take them on. However, this was before Ja Morant made the news with the firearms display on social media. But with Matt Barnes once again placing his faith in the 25-year-old, it’s to be seen how he redeems himself this upcoming season.

Stay tuned for more updates. Join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host, BG12, sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.