3 Grizzlies who will benefit from Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension

2. Marcus Smart

This summer, GM Zach Kleiman made the decision to take part in a multi-team blockbuster that landed the Grizzlies Marcus Smart from the Boston Celtics.

Though many suspect a significant reason for making this move revolved around the leadership he would bring to this young and promising Memphis core along with the defensive tenacity that could be used as a replacement for the exiting Dillon Brooks, his arrival also provides Taylor Jenkins with a  much-needed substitute for Ja Morant at the point guard position.

Since officially being utilized as a full-time starting floor general back during the 2021-22 season, Smart has gone on to post solid per-game averages of 11.8 points, 6.1 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals while helping guide his team to two consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances and an NBA Finals berth.

With the once heavily relied upon backup Tyus Jones now in Washington as a result of the multi-team exchange, the Grizzlies will depend upon the soon-to-be 10-year veteran in Smart to run point during Morant’s suspension.

Considering his recent experience serving as the primary one for a title-hopeful squad, expect there to be smooth sailing for Memphis thanks, in large, to the 29-year-old.