The Memphis Grizzlies have been making steady progress in the NBA over the past few seasons, with rising star Ja Morant playing a key role in their success. However, the team was recently hit with a setback when Morant received a suspension for a violation of league rules. With the playoffs on the horizon for the 2023 season, fans are left wondering how this suspension will affect the Grizzlies’ chances of making a deep playoff run. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the situation and assess the potential impact on the team’s playoff aspirations.
Memphis Grizzlies’ performance with and without Ja Morant says that they need him to contend in the west
Statistically speaking, the Memphis Grizzlies are better when Ja is on the floor. As a team consisting of a talented young core of Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and Dillon Brooks, this Memphis team looks like a legitimate contender. But, the two-time NBA all-star’s absence is taking a toll on the team. Take a look at the comparison in win-loss record, offensive rating, and defensive rating with and without Ja Morant.
| With Ja Morant | Without Ja Morant | |
| W-L record | 34-19 | 5-7 |
| Offensive rating | 115.5 | 111.2 |
| Defensive rating | 110.7 | 111.8 |
They still look like a formidable foe for anyone in the Western Conference. But, it is still the regular season. Come to the playoffs, the Grizzlies need someone to step up, and that someone was supposed to be Ja Morant. But, with him currently being away from the team indefinitely, a first-round exit is inevitable. Plus, if the playoffs would start today, they must face the 6th seed Dallas Mavericks featuring two of the best guards in the NBA – Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic.
Ja Morant leads the Grizzlies in 3 major categories: Points, Assists, and Steals
In the 2022-2023 season, Ja Morant is averaging 27.1 points, 8.2 assists, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. He leads the whole Grizzlies team in points, assists, and steals which makes him the undisputed superstar of the team.
Without his huge contribution in the said categories, Memphis needs to find someone to wear Morant’s shoes in the meantime. It seems to be that they aren’t so fine in the West anymore, are they?
But, what really is the effect of Ja Morant’s absence from the team?
It’s obvious that Ja Morant makes the team better offensively and defensively. They are still a great team and being the third seed in the west proves that statement. However, since being out, the Memphis Grizzlies are 1-2. It doesn’t look bad, but it’s going to be difficult knowing they still have 17 games left to play in the season.
With Ja Morant’s controversies (many to mention), not only is he affecting the team’s morale, but he is also destroying his career. On the positive side, they do have a legit chance of making the playoffs this year. However, will they even survive against the best teams in the Western Conference?
Can the Memphis Grizzlies make a deep playoff run this year without Ja Morant? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. For more content, stay with us, here at Spiel Times.
OTHER NEWS: NBA: Ja Morant to be suspended for 50 games – Rumor or true?
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