Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant was noticeably absent from the team’s game against the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night. Morant is currently serving out a nine-game suspension, which was imposed by both the league and the team following a recent gun incident. However, he made an appearance on the bench, much to the delight of the home crowd, who warmly welcomed him back.
Welcome back, 1️⃣2️⃣ pic.twitter.com/zpmSWYwMUH
— Bally Sports: Grizzlies (@GrizzOnBally) March 21, 2023
Despite not being able to play, Morant was in high spirits and even performed his trademark Griddy dance moves as he greeted his teammates on the bench. His return to the team is eagerly anticipated, with Morant expected to take the court once again when the Grizzlies face off against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday.
The Grizzlies have been performing well this season, currently holding the No. 2 spot in the Western Conference with a record of 43-27. While they are still trailing behind the top-seeded Denver Nuggets by four games, the return of their star point guard could give them the push they need to make a final push for the conference’s top spot.
How important is Morant for the Grizzlies and the home crowd?
Despite the gun incident that led to his suspension, Morant appears to have made amends with his teammates and the wider NBA community. The home crowd’s warm reception of him on Monday night is a testament to his popularity and importance to the Grizzlies’ success.
As Morant returns to the court, he will undoubtedly be looking to make up for lost time and continue his impressive form from earlier in the season. His return could also have a positive impact on his teammates, who will be eager to have their star player back in the fold.
All eyes will be on the Grizzlies in the coming weeks as they aim to finish the regular season strong and make a deep run in the playoffs. With Morant back in the mix, the team’s prospects look bright, and fans will be eagerly anticipating their next game against the Rockets to see their star point guard back in action.
Ja Morant set to return for Grizzlies after suspension and counseling stint
The Memphis Grizzlies expect their All-Star point guard Ja Morant to return to action on Wednesday night against the Houston Rockets, following his eight-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the league. Coach Taylor Jenkins confirmed that Morant addressed the team and coaching staff on his return, but did not reveal details of the discussion.
The Grizzlies opted to sit Morant out of Monday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks to allow him time to ramp up his conditioning after spending a week and a half at a counseling facility in Florida.
Morant, who leads the team with 27.1 points and 8.2 assists per game, participated in individual work and scrimmaged with the Grizzlies’ reserves and staffers on Monday, and will take part in practice on Tuesday.
