Ja Morant, the dynamic point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, has quickly become one of the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA’s most exciting talents since his debut in 2019. Despite his rising star power, concerns remain about a key factor that could hinder his journey back to being an All-NBA player this season, according to LeBron James’ former teammate Iman Shumpert.
Morant’s Recent Performance and Injury Challenges
Since entering the league, Morant has established himself as the undeniable leader of the Memphis Grizzlies. However, his recent seasons have been disrupted by injuries that limited his availability and overall output. Last year, Morant played in only 50 games, averaging 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists. His season ended with a hip injury during the Grizzlies’ playoff first-round series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, causing him to miss the decisive fourth game in a sweep.
The Grizzlies’ Outlook Amid Western Conference Competition
As the Memphis Grizzlies prepare for the 2025-26 season, they face a competitive Western Conference filled with teams that have strengthened their rosters. While Memphis enters the next campaign fully healthy, they parted ways with star wing Desmond Bane in the offseason, a move that could affect team chemistry and scoring options. Despite this, the Grizzlies have solid young talent, including rookie standout Jaylen Wells and recent first-round pick Zach Edey, who both showed promise last season.
Iman Shumpert Reflects on What Could Limit Morant’s Rise
Iman Shumpert, who won an NBA championship alongside LeBron James on the Cleveland Cavaliers, has closely observed Morant’s talent and potential. Shumpert recognizes the high level of athleticism Morant possesses but points to one major challenge that could restrict the guard’s ability to dominate consistently.
“When you talk about somebody that is that athletic, the only thing that can stop him is … I don’t even want to say it,”
said Shumpert, clearly referencing injuries as the main obstacle.
“That’s the only thing that can stop him from being on the court and showing us what we want to see. He’s in love with the game and that’s apparent, no matter when you see him playing basketball.”
He added emphatically,
“Even when he’s stopped himself, when he returns to the court, give me Ja.”
Injury Impact and Team Prospects Moving Forward
Injuries have limited Morant to just 59 games over the past two seasons, coinciding with a rough period for the Grizzlies, who finished 27-55 last year. This slide allowed Memphis to secure promising prospects like Zach Edey with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. Along with Jaylen Wells, who earned All-Rookie First Team honors, the team hopes to rebuild around Morant’s talent.
Despite these challenges, the Grizzlies have shown they can compete at a high level, securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference in both 2022 and 2023. Their system and young core have the potential to make noise in the playoffs again. Still, as Shumpert emphasized, all success depends on Morant staying healthy and available to lead the team on the court.