Former Grizzlies star on Ja Morant: 'We’re all waiting for him to get back'

Times are undoubtedly tough for the Memphis Grizzlies right now, as they sport the fourth-worst record in the entire association and are currently amid a four-game losing streak.

Their most recent demise came in grueling blowout fashion on their home floor against the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves, as they were downed by a final score of 119-97.

Despite the lackluster performance, however, there still proved to be a select few endearing results from the outing, most notably the praise-filled comments made by former franchise centerpiece, Mike Conley, who currently serves as the starting guard for the top-seeded T-Wolves.

Following the contest, even with the diminished enthusiasm on the night, the veteran talked up the Grizzlies fanbase for their dedication and commitment to the club and, per Jonah Dylan of The Commercial Appeal, opened up on his thoughts about Memphis' currently suspended superstar, Ja Morant, sharing his excitement for his successor's impending return.

Mike Conley dishes on enthusiasm for Ja Morant's return to Grizzlies

"He’s a young man who’s learning his way. I’m sure he’s growing up and doing what he needs to do to get back on the court and redeem himself on that end. I think we’re all waiting for him to get back. He’s good for our league."

- Mike Conley on Ja Morant

Before getting to a Morant, the Grizzlies saw Conley leading the charge at their point guard position for the better part of 12 seasons where he became an all-time favorite of the franchise, guiding them through a number of deep playoff runs and boasting averages of 14.9 points, 5.7 assists, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.5 steals along the way.

Since his departure back in the summer of 2019, Conley has voiced nothing but respect and admiration for the Grizzlies organization and has been a major advocate of Morant taking the reigns from him as the club's cornerstone guard.

Five years since his departure, it's heartwarming to see him still talking up his former employers.

As for Morant, his first opportunity to return from his suspension will be on December 23 in a road tilt against the Atlanta Hawks.