Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant accepts blame for first-round exit
The Memphis Grizzlies’ NBA title hopes were dashed after falling to the Los Angeles Lakers in six games.
The Grizzlies finished with the second-best record in the Western Conference, poised for potential NBA title contention. However, injuries to the frontcourt with big men Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke alone played a factor in their downfall to the Lakers.
After the disappointing playoff exit, star point guard Ja Morant said he needs to make better decisions on and off the court.
Read: New York Jets GM Joe Douglas On Aaron Rodgers Trade
“I’ve just got to be better with my decision-making,” said Morant, who finished with 10 points on 3-of-16 shooting in the blowout defeat via ESPN. “That’s pretty much it. Off-the-court issues affected us as an organization pretty much. Just [need] more discipline.”
Morant is the focal point of the Grizzlies’ long-term future after another highly productive campaign. His off-the-court issues did impact the team, but Memphis didn’t possess the firepower to move past Los Angeles.
The Lakers’ balanced attack featured a different leading scorer in each of the six games. As well as that, Anthony Davis’ stellar defense was too much to overcome.
Want $250 to bet on NBA futures?
Beyond that, the Grizzlies may be headed toward some roster adjustments to better contend for an NBA title. Memphis must first ink rising star guard Desmond Bane to an extension as he’s eligible to ink the rookie max contract this upcoming offseason.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies could depart from forward Dillon Brooks, who will head into free agency. Memphis could bring aboard a proven scorer to help push the franchise toward a deep playoff run next season.
