Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant is currently not performing at the same level as he did in 2022, when he earned the NBA’s Most Improved Player award following his Rookie of the Year season two years earlier. In the current season, his per-game averages in points, rebounds, assists, and minutes have all taken a noticeable dip. This change in individual statistics comes as the Grizzlies have shifted their focus toward a more team-oriented style of play compared to the early part of the decade. Their collective approach appears to be yielding positive results, as the team boasts an impressive record of 38–24, placing Memphis back among the elite teams in the Western Conference.
Despite the overall team success, Morant’s struggles and recurring injuries have raised concerns about his role and performance. During a challenging game in which the Grizzlies lost 120–103 to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday, Morant acknowledged that he needed to better manage his playing time. Following the game, he expressed regret over his decision to remain on the floor, stating through an interview with Damichael Cole of The Commercial Appeal that he felt awful and believed he should have sat out. His comments reflected the ongoing tension between playing through discomfort and the necessity to contribute on the court, regardless of the physical toll.
Even though Morant managed to score 24 points to lead his team in that matchup, he achieved this by taking 22 shots, highlighting the difficulty he is facing in finding efficiency. His performance was particularly frustrating given that he had missed the previous two games due to shoulder soreness. “I’ve played like this all season, honestly. It is what it is. Got to get the win,” Morant admitted, acknowledging both his consistent struggles throughout the season and his relentless commitment to helping his team secure victories. This candid reflection underscores the challenges he faces as he balances individual performance with team success amidst injury setbacks.
