It’s not easy for the Memphis Grizzlies to stay strong in the upcoming 2023-2024 season.
According to local sources, Memphis’ Ja Morant (guard, 191cm, 79kg) may miss an extended period next season.
Morant recently once again exposed a picture of himself with a gun on social media. Trouble is, this isn’t the first time. As it has only been about two months since he was disciplined for causing controversy during the season, heavy punishment is expected.
Previously, firearms discipline was strict. Back in 2010, Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton staged a massive scandal when they brought guns into the locker room. Arenas was suspended for 50 games and Crittenton for 38 games. On the other hand, Morant is an SNS video, but severe punishment is expected because it is only two months old and, let alone self-reflection, was not able to grasp the seriousness again.
Locally, it is being discussed that he may not play more than half of the season. Since Commissioner Adam Silver led the NBA, discipline has become significantly lighter than before. Nevertheless, since this case is by no means light and the accident occurred again within two months, heavy punishment is expected. Even if Morant doesn’t play at least 30 games, Memphis will have a major setback in planning for next season.
Memphis has already taken a quick action by excluding Morant from all team activities. Even during the season, he was excluded from the squad. However, as this is the second time, it is understood that the club has also been considerably shocked. Reporter Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that many members of the Memphis community were shocked by the incident.
From next season, Morant will be subject to a five-year, $194.3 million contract extension signed last summer. It is a contract worth $33.86 million per year, and the salary set for the next season alone is $33.5 million. He is Memphis’ ace and the highest-paid player on the team next season. Still, he committed acts like these not long after being knocked out of the playoffs 먹튀검증.