As the Memphis Grizzlies’ losing streak hit four games on Wednesday, rookie Ja Morant was visibly upset after suffering a 140-112 loss on the road to the Houston Rockets.
The Grizzlies trailed 35-17 after the first quarter and by halftime, the Rockets’ lead grew to 26 points. By then, the MVP duo of James Harden and Russell Westbrook had already combined for 46 points against the Grizzlies.
Morant managed just 12 points and nine assists in the loss as the Grizzlies played without Jaren Jackson Jr. and rookie Brandon Clarke due to injury. Memphis has been outscored by 17.8 points per game during their recent skid, something that hasn’t sat well with Morant.
Warning: Some language may be inappropriate
Ja Morant was blunt tonight on the Grizzlies’ four-game losing streak. “This sh** getting old”. Hard to blame his frustration.
He agreed with Taylor Jenkins that the team needs to start better
— Evan Barnes (@evan_b) February 27, 2020
Afterward, Morant clarified his comments were not directed at his teammates or the Grizzlies organization and hinted that he would be fined if he were to fully sound off.
this was nothing against my team or organization. i can’t speak on what this was about or i’ll get fined 😂💯 https://t.co/go0MznGY1G
— Ja Morant (@JaMorant) February 27, 2020
The Grizzlies currently hold the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference but their lead over the Portland Trail Blazers in ninth place shrunk to 2.5 games with the loss on Wednesday.
With 24 games left, the remaining schedule isn’t particularly easy for the Grizzlies, either. Of those games left, 13 are against teams currently above .500, tied for the most among teams in the playoff hunt.
As the upstart Grizzlies find themselves in the thick of the playoff race, the team will face a tough battle to make it and they will need to solve their current issues quickly to have a chance.
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