Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

Ja Morant suspension could be the wake up call he needs to turn around Grizzlies career

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Pocholo Magsino | Last updated Nov 2, 2025 10:30 AM ET

Ja Morant went viral after the Memphis Grizzlies’ loss when he made some incendiary comments about his team’s coaches. It was surprising because no one expected that from a superstar.

When Taylor Jenkins left the team, many thought he and Ja Morant had a falling out. While Morant denied that it happened, he is involved in another controversy with a head coach, this time with Tuomas Iisalo. Unlike the situation with Jenkins, where there was no proof, Morant is on record making some pointed jabs at the Memphis Grizzlies‘ head coach and the rest of the staff.

Morant called out Iisalo and the coaching staff, pointing at them when asked about what went wrong in their collapse against the Los Angeles Lakers. Many people were confused by this comment, but it had been bubbling up during the game, as it was evident that Morant was not focused.

Even former All-Star Blake Griffin called it out on the Prime Video broadcast. People expect a lot from Morant because he is the franchise cornerstone. Unfortunately, this might have put a damper on his relationship with the coaches and the organization.

Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images

Morant must sit out a game for his comments

Now, Morant is facing the repercussions from his comments about Iisalo. He will be sitting out the Grizzlies’ next game against the Toronto Raptors on Sunday. would have been a good game for Morant to bounce back, but the organization deemed his comments detrimental.

Understandably, the Grizzlies are making this move to hold Morant accountable. This is an undeniable stain on the organization because they expect their superstar to be supportive, but he is calling out his coaches during a tough time.

The fact that many people thought Morant was checked out during the game because he looked disengaged is also a factor here. The Grizzlies want to win games, and if Morant is not showing that he wants to lead the team, this suspension might be useful, as it could help him focus more.

Grizzlies statement on Ja Morant pic.twitter.com/0zk9VmADwn
— Grizzlies PR (@GrizzliesPR) November 1, 2025

The potential long-term implications of Morant’s comments

Since Morant is involved in this issue, many people are throwing around the idea of Morant getting traded. He would fetch a lot of good assets, including a plethora of draft picks. However, the team is built around him, so it would be a hard reset if the Grizzlies trade him away.

Morant is talented enough to start for almost every team in the league. The Minnesota Timberwolves would be a good fit because they might have the assets to trade and could pair Morant with Anthony Edwards, another young superstar set to take over the league.

Ja Morant to the Minnesota Timberwolves trade scenario pic.twitter.com/lGCtYr3rJJ
— HQE (@thehqenba) November 1, 2025

It would be a welcome change for Morant if he were to move away from Memphis.

However, he might want to keep fighting for the Grizzlies, especially since he is already intrinsically connected as the franchise player. It is a tough situation, but it might be time for him to focus and help them.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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