The Memphis Grizzlies enter the 2025-26 season with a new level of scrutiny on Ja Morant. While his athletic talent remains elite, concerns about maturity, accountability, and leadership have intensified following off-court incidents, a civil lawsuit, and NBA penalties. The team appears to be recalibrating its strategy, signaling a reduced reliance on Morant as the central figure of the franchise.

This shift raises pressing questions about whether Morant can truly lead a team, or if Memphis will increasingly rely on other core players, primarily Jaren Jackson Jr., to stabilize performance.

Chris Mannix acknowledged Morant’s talent and the potential for Memphis to build an offense around him. “ This is a huge year for Ja Morant. They may change the coaching staff to bring in guys that mo

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