Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant is set to enter the 2024-25 NBA season with renewed determination. After a tumultuous previous campaign, NBA insider Shams Charania reports that Morant is focused and ready to prove his capabilities.
Charania shared insights on The Pat McAfee Show about Morant’s mindset. “I do think Ja Morant is going into this year really believing that this is his time… Everyone I’ve talked to around Memphis has told me he’s extremely focused,” Charania said.
Morant faced significant challenges during the 2023-24 season. He began the year serving a 25-game suspension due to a second incident involving a gun on social media. His absence contributed to a rough start for the Grizzlies, who lost their first six games and struggled with a 6-19 record by the time he returned.
Upon his return on December 19, 2023, Morant made an immediate impact. However, his success was short-lived as he suffered a labral tear in his right shoulder during practice, forcing him to undergo season-ending surgery.
Overall, Morant played only nine games last season, averaging 22.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 8.1 assists in 35.3 minutes per game. His limited appearances were part of a challenging year for the Grizzlies, marked by injuries to key players, including Steven Adams and Desmond Bane.
The Grizzlies faced unprecedented injury issues throughout the season. They utilized over 50 different starting lineups, setting a record for the most lineup combinations since the 1970-71 season. The roster’s struggles forced the NBA to grant Memphis three hardship roster spots due to the extensive injury list.
Morant’s commitment to improving his game is evident as he looks ahead to the 2024-25 season. With his previous year behind him, he aims to lead Memphis back to playoff contention. The Grizzlies were eliminated from playoff contention for the first time since 2020 after a loss to the Golden State Warriors.
