Although he has been in trouble for the past year or so, Ja Morant remains one of the league’s most talented players. This is backed up by Shaquille O’Neal’s inclusion of the Memphis Grizzlies star in his list of top 50 NBA players for Bleacher Report.
Morant’s journey in the NBA has been anything but conventional. Once viewed as a rising star with the potential to dominate the league, his trajectory has faced challenges, including suspensions and a recent shoulder surgery that limited his appearances. Despite these setbacks, Morant remains a formidable force on the court, showcasing his incredible skills as a point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies.
During the 2021-2022 season, Morant’s performance was electrifying, averaging 26.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game. His ability to create scoring opportunities and elevate his teammates is essential for Memphis, a team aiming for championship contention.
Analysts have noted that Morant’s leadership capabilities are currently in question, especially given his off-court issues that have affected his playtime. Kenny Smith emphasized that true leadership is about being present and making sound decisions, both on and off the court.
Shaquille O’Neal Gives Memphis Grizzlies’ Respectable Ranking in His Top 50 List
While most people were surprised at O’Neal’s ranking for Victor Wembanyama, the former NBA champion gave Morant a better place in his list. This can be seen in an article published by Bleacher Report recently.
The 2024-25 NBA season tips off this week, and outlets all over the internet are publishing their individual player rankings. At Bleacher Report, we have the ultimate trump card: The official ranking from the legendary Inside the NBA crew. Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith all made their own top 50s (you can see the aggregate version that combines all three here), and we’re looking at Shaq’s below.
22. Ja Morant, Point Guard (Grizzlies)
If Morant can return to form and stay healthy, his impact could be transformative for the Grizzlies. His blend of scoring, playmaking, and defensive skills makes him a nightmare for opposing teams. Smith believes that if Morant can harness his talent effectively, Memphis could quickly reestablish itself as a serious contender in the league.
As the 2024-25 season approaches, all eyes will be on Morant. His ability to overcome personal and professional hurdles will be critical not just for his career but for the future of the Grizzlies as a playoff threat. With the right focus and commitment, Ja Morant could reclaim his status among the NBA’s elite players.
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