After months of sitting on the sidelines, Ja Morant is only days away from joining his struggling Memphis Grizzlies.
Morant’s lengthy suspension is coming to an end and he is prepared to jump right into action next week and work alongside some crucial new recruits.
During Friday’s press conference, Morant spoke about Marcus Smart and Derrick Rose, who joined the team in the offseason.
According to a video shared by Clutchpoints, Morant called them “two veteran guys who are very vocal in our locker room who has been a big help.”
“Those pieces for us, not only on the court, but off the court, will help us get better,” he added.
"Two veteran guys who are very vocal in our locker room who has been a big help… Those pieces for us, not only on the court, but off the court, will help us get better."
Ja Morant on having Marcus Smart and Derrick Rose on the Grizzlies 💯pic.twitter.com/CJMq4Y4QAY
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 15, 2023
This is exactly what was expected of Smart and Rose when they were brought to the team in the summer.
While they would obviously make an impact with points and assists, these two players were viewed as experienced veterans who could help in the locker room and build a strong chemistry too.
It sounds like that is what they are doing.
Morant mentioned that Smart and Rose can support “not only on the court,” which is an interesting comment that is attracting attention.
Both players were signed after Morant was suspended by the league and many analysts and fans were hoping they could each sit down with Morant, help him with his personal life, and get him on track so he no longer gets suspended.
Many saw Smart and Rose as not just teammates but mentors to Morant.
Has either player attempted to build a personal, off-court bond with Morant?
Now that he is coming back, Morant has to make up for lost time and will need to get to work right away.
The Grizzlies are in a deep hole and they will require Morant, Rose, and Smart to help them get out of it.
NEXT: Ja Morant Reveals His Thoughts On His Upcoming Return