Memphis Grizzlies: Ja Morant should be a lock for the 2022 All-Star game

The Memphis Grizzlies franchise is one of the youngest in the NBA. As a result of this, they haven’t had the same bulk of star-studded rosters as older franchises, like the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, or Chicago Bulls.

This lack of star power has translated to the NBA All-Star game, where the Grizzlies have only been represented six times overall. Those six selections are split between three different players, and if you want to get really technical, two different families.

Here is a full list of the Grizzlies’ past all-star players:

• Marc Gasol (2012, 2015, 2017)
• Zach Randolph (2010, 2013)
• Pau Gasol (2006)

In the 2022 NBA All-Star Game, the Memphis Grizzlies will look to be represented by Ja Morant

After a few years with virtually no hope of having a player selected to the NBA All-Star Game, the Memphis Grizzlies may have a shot in 2022. That shot goes by the name of Ja Morant who, ironically, was snubbed from the 2021 NBA All-Star game due to his poor jump shot.

Morant’s poor shooting caused a hole in his game that led to his entire stat line suffering, from assist numbers to scoring numbers. Once his jump shot was back on track, there was no stopping the former NBA Rookie of the Year.

Morant improved his scoring output, assist numbers, and rebounding totals while cutting down on turnovers in year two. Most of the differences were marginal, but noteworthy while playing a handicapped game without the ability to shoot.

In the NBA Playoffs, Morant took a huge step forward, becoming the first player in Grizzlies history to average over 30 points per game in the postseason. He did this while stabilizing his shooting and averaging 8.4 assists per game, flashing the type of player that he could be next season.

Most importantly, however, Morant put his name on the map in the NBA. While he had become somewhat of an afterthought after winning Rookie of the Year, he showed up on the biggest stage, knocking Stephen Curry out in the play-in tournament and stealing game one against the Utah Jazz.

Both of these games saw the young point guard step up with clutch performances.

Even though the Grizzlies would get bounced in the first round, Morant showed that he is ready to step into a superstar role. The spotlight didn’t seem too bright for him, instead, he seemed to improve when things mattered the most.

At this point in time, Ja Morant has to be considered a virtual lock to make the 2022 NBA All-Star game. His shooting should be back on track next season, and with it, his numbers should drastically increase.