Ja Morant sends cryptic message after heated exchange in Grizzlies vs Lakers

The Memphis Grizzlies have struggled during these early stages of 2023-24, as they now have dropped to a league-worst 2-9 on the season following their latest loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Though many contributing factors have aided in their unfortunate turnout to this point, easily the most substantial has been the absence of superstar Ja Morant from the rotation.

Serving out a league-issued 25-game suspension, the franchise cornerstone has yet to suit up for a single outing this year and won't be eligible to return until mid-December.

However, though he may not be present on the hardwood alongside his teammates, reports are the star guard has been an active participant in practice and an avid onlooker during their 11 contests thus far.

This latter part may have been strengthened even more Tuesday evening, as Morant issued a timely post on social media at a peculiar point during Memphis' bout against the Lakers.

Ja Morant issues cryptic message following Grizzlies vs Lakers scuffle

At 11 PM (EST), Morant posted a single emoji of a bear accompanied by nothing else on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

What makes this seemingly simplistic post noteworthy is the fact that not long before this there was a substantial pause in play during the latest Grizzlies game sparked by a scuffle between Santi Aldama and Lakers star big, Anthony Davis.

At around the 4:57 mark in the first period, the two bigs were caught in a physical exchange that saw Aldama being shoved to the ground. In response, teammate Desmond Bane beelined it right to the chest of the electrifying Davis in defense of Adlama, where the two would proceed to jaw at each other before ultimately being separated.

As many are likely aware, the bear emoji is one used synonymously with the Grizzlies organization, and Morant's choice to use such an icon at this particular time should be seen as a subliminal message of solidarity directed toward his cohorts.

Though he may not be out there on the frontlines, with his latest social media activity it's apparent that he still stands with his teammates, albeit from afar.

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