Memphis Grizzlies: First Quarter Awards
By AJ Salah
Most Valuable Player: Ja Morant
Ja Morant has literally exploded onto the NBA scene.
An unknown as recently as two years ago, he loudly ascended the NBA Draft ladder, making NCAA history on the way to his 2nd overall selection.
So far, his game has translated very well to the NBA; Morant has been a devastating offensive maestro. He’s currently averaging 18.6 ppg and 6.4 apg on 45% shooting. Not bad, considering Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson are the only rookies ever to do that (in far more minutes per game).
Morant is also connecting on 41% of his attempts from deep. Despite a small sample, his development as a stretch threat appears ahead of schedule.
Ja composes himself like a veteran, never shrinking away in the moment. He was an absolute beast down the stretch against Utah and Brooklyn; Memphis’ two signature W’s of this young season.
His defense still needs work; as does that of practically any rookie PG. He’s also a bit careless with his handle and pass attempts; experience will polish those.
Next. Should the Grizzlies start load managing?. dark
But the early indications are that the Memphis Grizzlies have scored a future superstar in Ja Morant. He’ll produce an endless highlight reel, and with luck, a plethora of wins to match.