It goes without saying that this year's Memphis Grizzlies have struggled mightily through the first month and change of action in 2023-24, and are currently tied for the fourth-worst mark on the year at 6-14 as a result.
However, despite their lackluster record, hope is by no means lost on Taylor Jenkins' club, as they have recently found themselves on the winning end of three of their last four outings and, since November 29, have been the second-best defensive unit and have sported the fifth-best net rating (7.8) in the entire association.
While this alone could be enough to excite Grind City's faithful followers, easily the biggest storyline fans and media pundits alike have been following of late is the soon-to-be lifted 25-game suspension of superstar guard Ja Morant, who has been sidelined due to conduct deemed detrimental to the league.
A two-time All-Star and an All-NBA selectee, the 24-year-old's absence has been tabbed as a major influencer on the Grizzlies' lackluster turnout thus far, though his return is anticipated to be a much-needed jolt of energy that could very well aid in their journey toward the road to recovery.
Though it's somewhat hard to know exactly what kind of shape Morant will be in following an eight-month-long hiatus, recently former All-Star guard and 2017 MVP candidate Isaiah Thomas went on to predict via X (formerly Twitter) that the point guard is bound to be back to his studly ways.
Isaiah Thomas makes lofty prediction about Grizzlies star Ja Morant
When Ja morant come back?? This season already crackin but I bet he go craaaazzzyyyyy
— Isaiah Thomas (@isaiahthomas) December 7, 2023
This is by no means the first time Thomas has hyped up the impending return of Morant, with the former pro stating the Grizzlies guard will be "on some MVP shit" once getting back, especially with Derrick Rose now on the roster.
Though he has yet to step foot on the hardwood for a live-action NBA game, there have been numerous reports throughout his suspension noting his activity in practices and behind-the-scenes workouts with his team, with coach Jenkins going on record to state he's "pushing every button possible to get himself as prepared" as possible for his return.
Morant's first game of eligibility will be in a road tilt against the New Orleans Pelicans on December 19.