Memphis Grizzlies: 3 storylines for game against Jazz

No. 2: Can Ja Bounce Back?

In the Grizzlies last game against the New Orleans Pelicans, star point guard and leading Rookie of the Year candidate Ja Morant had one of his worst games of the season.

The guard from Murray State recorded just 11 points and five rebounds, and went 5-21 from the field for a shooting percentage of 23.8 percent. He also struggled to hit 3-point shots, shooting 10.0 percent on 1-10 shooting.

For Memphis, the play of Morant is going to be one of the key factors that determines whether or not the team will make the playoffs. This was true before the bubble started but now–with Justise Winslow, Tyus Jones, and Jaren Jackson Jr. all out due to injury–it’s more essential than ever.

Unfortunately, while this type of play doesn’t line up with his production during the season, it’s becoming more and more common in the bubble. In Memphis’ first game, against the Portland Trail Blazers, Morant shot 7-22 from the field and 1-7 from 3-point range, though he was able to record six rebounds and 11 assists to offset his three turnovers.

Then, in their second game against the Spurs, Morant rebounded (no pun intended) with a 10-18 shooting performance, though he did miss both of the 3-point shots that he took. His production outside of strictly scoring stayed fairly consistent, picking up nine rebounds and nine assists.

While Morant may be progressing and taking over games in ways other than scoring, namely through his rebounding and ability to set up his own numbers, he is going to need to step up his scoring production if the Grizzlies are going to get out of this rut.