[Saba Sports News] Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has faced another setback during his 25-game suspension as he experienced a significant drop in ESPN’s annual NBA player rankings. Last season, Morant was ranked No. 9, but this year he plummeted to No. 35, putting him below players like Lauri Markkanen, Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, and even his Grizzlies teammate, Jaren Jackson Jr.
In response to what he perceived as disrespect, Morant tweeted, “no Uturns,” essentially urging ESPN to stand by their ranking throughout the season without backtracking.
While it was expected that Morant’s off-court issues would impact his rankings, his on-court performance remained elite, with impressive averages of 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Few players in the NBA can boast better numbers than that, let alone 34 of them.
Ultimately, Morant needs to ensure that his personal life no longer interferes with his responsibilities on the basketball court. While the Grizzlies have brought in veterans who may be able to assist him, Morant remains the key to proving ESPN and the world wrong.