In May 2023, Ja Morant found himself on the wrong side of NBA’s law, when he brandished a firearm on Instagram Live. The NBA handed him a 25-game suspension for “conduct detrimental to the league”. The suspension has cost him approximately $7.5 million. However, that saga is in the past and Ja has made a remarkable return to NBA basketball.

Since Ja’s return, the Grizzlies have won all four of their games, with Morant playing a starring role. Morant’s stunning comeback has earned him plaudits from all corners of the basketball fraternity. A former All-Star has gone as far as to say that Ja is the “definition of an MVP”. 

Jeff Teague calls Morant the “heartbeat” of the Grizzlies

In a recent episode of his podcast, Club 520, Jeff Teague reserved high praise for Ja Morant. During a conversation, he credited Ja for turning the fortunes of a “trash” Memphis Grizzlies’ side. He further claimed that Ja is the “heartbeat” of the Grizzlies. He said, “Ja like the heart and soul and heartbeat of that team. When he come back, they hold swag different…. He really captivating though. Like he’s the definition of a MVP. Like he’s really the most valuable player of his team.”

Since Ja returned on 19th December, the Grizzlies have won 4 of their five games. Their only loss came at the hands of the Nuggets, with Morant sidelined due to illness in that game. While the sample size is limited, Morant has been posting MVP-caliber statistical performances since coming back. He has averaged 28.8 points, 8.5 assists and 5.5 rebounds in four games. Morant’s return has rejuvenated a demoralized Grizzlies outfit. But can he lead them to an improbable playoff spot?

Is a highly improbable Grizzlies’ turnaround on the cards?

The Memphis Grizzlies have had a horrid start to the 2023-24 season. In Ja’s absence, the Grizzlies became one of the worst teams in the Western Conference. They currently occupy the 13th spot in the Western Conference standings, having won just 10 games and losing another 20 games. The Grizzlies poor start has left them with a mountain to climb if they want to fulfill the postseason ambitions.

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However, it remains to be seen whether the Grizzlies are interested in a playoff berth this season. The Grizzlies could decide to tank, in a bid to secure a favorable position in the high-stakes 2024 NBA draft. But, should the Grizzlies choose to compete for a playoff spot, their current standing suggests that securing one in the fiercely competitive Western Conference remains highly improbable. Can the Grizzlies make it to the postseason? Let us know in the comments below!

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