Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has missed the last nine games after stepping away from the team earlier this month. It appears that he is now slated to return from his lengthy absence on Wednesday.
Morant has had a number of personal issues including several incidents where he was reportedly aggressive towards children and an Instagram live video in a nightclub showing off a gun. He has taken several steps to better himself including entering a counseling program and stepping away from social media.
It seems that he has done enough to prove to the Grizzlies organization that he should be able to take the floor again. According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, he will play in Wednesday’s matchup against the Houston Rockets.
Ja Morant will come off the bench tonight vs. Rockets, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said. “That might be the case for a couple of games,” Jenkins said.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) March 22, 2023
MacMahon detailed that Morant will be coming off the bench in his return to action. Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins revealed to him that this “might be the case for a couple of games”.
While his role may be reduced on Wednesday, many are extremely excited to see him returning for Memphis.
I understand there may be a process to things, and if Ja is cool with it, then sure.
Do think he absolutely should be starting soon.
Also, franchise record for a bench player in points is 41 by Mike Miller.
14 players have scored 40+ vs HOU this year.Just saying…. https://t.co/HF4BxPOLxh
— Shawn Coleman (@StatsSAC) March 22, 2023
Ja Morant plays basketball tonight. pic.twitter.com/45MXb486jL
— Bally Sports: Grizzlies (@GrizzOnBally) March 22, 2023
6th Man of the Year campaign starts tonight https://t.co/Q3xXb2rq6u
— JLowe (@shawtygot_LOWE) March 22, 2023
I’m glad he back playing !! https://t.co/JGscgVkttw
— 🧢 SlimWithTheTiltedBrim 🧢 (@rubenromiah) March 22, 2023
The Grizzlies certainly need Ja Morant to get back up to speed quickly as they ramp up for a potential postseason appearance. Memphis comes into Wednesday’s game with a 44-27 record in the second seed of the Western Conference.
Morant has been excellent when he has been on the court this year, averaging 27.1 points per game along with 8.2 assists. Hopefully, his off-court issues quickly become a thing of the past and he can get back to his impressive brand of basketball for Memphis.