Richard Jefferson takes strong stance on Grizzlies' Ja Morant following scandals

In the NBA, it’s common for gifted players to experience setbacks at inopportune times.

Extended absences from the hardwood or disastrous playoff performances can cause the public to doubt their capabilities. From one NBA analyst's perspective , however, a particular star will remind the world that he’s an elite talent in 2024-25.

“I’m gonna say Ja Morant,” ESPN’s Richard Jefferson said during a segment about players in line for bounce-back years. “This was a team (Memphis Grizzlies) that was trending upward. They were the Oklahoma City Thunder two seasons ago. Obviously, there have been injuries and there have been a lot of things that have gone on in the organization, but don’t forget who Ja Morant is.”

After serving a 25-game suspension for “conduct detrimental to the league,”  Morant rejoined the Grizzlies on Dec. 19. He guided the team to a 6-3 record before suffering a season-ending shoulder subluxation/labral tear in January. When the two-time All-Star is healthy and making sound decisions during his free time, he is unquestionably a top 20-25 NBA player.

As a ball-handler, Morant is as smooth as they come. He glides to the rim after executing a series of enticing side-to-side dribble moves and finishes in the lane with authority. One of his best highlights of the 2023-24 season came against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs on Jan. 2. He executed his patented crossover jab on the right block and converted an explosive two-handed jam over the Rookie of the Year.

Despite being sidelined for most of the year, Morant led the Grizzlies in scoring with 25.1 points per game. With Morant undergoing successful surgery and receiving clearance for full contact, Memphis should boast a positive 2024-25 season outlook.

More NBA: Nets could land future Hall of Famer, six-time All-NBA forward in trade with Heat