The NBA suspended Ja Morant for eight games, with eligibility to return Monday against Dallas. Despite missing Morant and injured Steven Adams, the Grizzlies have secured wins, maintaining their Western Conference contender status. This is the first major adversity this young Grizzlies team has experienced and it could break them or harden them ahead of this year’s playoffs.
This incident could also have serious ramifications extending off the court. In particular, Morant’s All-NBA candidacy is on the line, which would have significant financial implications for both him and the Grizzlies.