Kendrick Perkins puts Ja Morant into the elite category: 'Definitely knocking at the door telling Russ and D-Rose to let him in that room'

Originally posted on Basketball Network
By Yakshpat Bhargava | Last updated Nov 30, 2024 3:31 AM ET

When defenders went up against prime Russell Westbrook and Derrick Rose, they constantly had to stay alert. These guards combined explosive quickness with unreal athleticism, making them nearly unstoppable when attacking the paint.

Their ability to leap beyond the rim from a standing position, adjust mid-air, and score with ease set them apart. According to Kendrick Perkins, it's time to place Ja Morant in this elite category of all-time athletic guards.

Perkins drops high praise for Morant

From the start of this 2024-25 campaign, "G12" has been on a mission to deliver jaw-dropping moments, keeping fans at the edge of their seats. After executive two mid-air, direction-changing alley-oops against the Brooklyn Nets earlier in the season, the two-time All-Star added another highlight-reel during a matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night.

In the third quarter, the 6'2" point guard showcased his remarkable athleticism. With minimal momentum, Ja elevated from a standing position on a pass from Brandon Clarke to knock an insane alley-oop dunk.

JA MORANT MY GOODNESS

(h/t @EricTweetsNBA)

pic.twitter.com/iTog6TsdnI
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) November 29, 2024

Impressed by the 25-year-old's incredible hang time, "Big Perk" took to social media to declare how it was time to include Morant in the running of the most athletic guard in the league's history.

Ja is definitely knocking at the door telling Russ and D-Rose to let him in that room of Most Athletic Point Guards of All-Time!!! God Bless America
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) November 29, 2024

Ja draws parallels with prime "Brodie" and D-Rose

During the primes of both Rose and Westbrook, they paired elite athleticism with the ability to dominate games on both ends of the floor, helping their teams secure crucial wins.

Similarly, Morant has displayed this trait, leading the Grizzlies to the second-best record in the Western Conference for two consecutive seasons previously. Even this year, he continues to excel, guiding Memphis to a 12-7 record (4th in the Western Conference) while averaging 20.8 points and 9.3 assists per game.

While Morant undoubtedly deserves recognition as one of the most athletic guards of all time, the ultimate test lies in whether he can go beyond just his physical abilities. If he wants to leave a better legacy than prime D-Rose or Westbrook, he mustn't just provide breathtaking plays but take the Memphis Grizzlies deep into the playoffs as well.

Will he be able to make that ultimate step? Remains to be seen as the Grizzlies extend their winning streak to five games with their latest triumph over Zion Williamson-less Pelicans.

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

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