Memphis Grizzlies: Comparing Ja Morant to past and current NBA stars

Memphis Grizzlies PG Ja Morant and Russell Westbrook play nearly identical games

This was probably the most obvious comparison that could be made. Morant looks like a young Russell Westbrook out on the court, there’s no denying it.

They’re both explosive athletes who can play a wild game at times and struggle shooting the ball. They’re also both some of the most exciting basketball players that we’ve ever seen play the game. While Westbrook has already established himself as arguably the most explosive athlete to ever see the league, Morant is on his way there.

Since Morant is only in his second year, it’s most logical to compare these players’ rookie year stats. Here’s what they looked like:

Ja Morant: 17.8 PPG, 7.3 APG, 3.9 RPG, 0.9 SPG, 47.7% FG, 33.5% 3PT FG

Russell Westbrook: 15.3 PPG, 5.3 APG, 4.9 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 39.8% FG, 27.1% 3PT FG

As you can see, the stats look very similar. Morant has a distinct edge is points per game and field goal percentage, two things that likely compliment one and other. That being said, Westbrook’s shooting took the same distinct year two blow that Morant’s has.

Westbrook does hold the edge in steals per game and likely will finish his career with more steals than Morant. Overall, his size and power allow for him to be a better all-around defender, but Morant has the potential to be a better offensive player.