It appears that Ja Morant will miss more than just two games for the Memphis Grizzlies, after head coach Taylor Jenkins kept things vague when asked when he'll return to the lineup. Speaking with reporters on Sunday, Jenkins explained that there isn't a "definitive timeline" and that the organization is taking things "one day at a time," regarding Morant's status. The team suspended Morant after he brandished a firearm while filming himself on Instagram Live. Morant has since released a statement apologizing for the incident.
"The focus right now is Ja taking on the responsibility to really get the help he needs to get into a better place, generally speaking," Jenkins said. "But also on the flipside, to be in a better place to embrace the responsibilities and expectations as a member of this team. That's what we're dialoguing about. That's what we're going to support him through. But we're also going to hold him accountable too."
Ja Morant On The Court
"He understands. He's made some difficult decisions and poor choices in the past that he's got to account for and that's why you see in his statement, it speaks for itself that he understands he needs to get help to get into a better place not just for himself, but for his team," Jenkins continued. "He's definitely embracing the mistakes that he's made, but only time will tell. We are going to support him and hold him accountable to make those changes."
The Grizzlies' next two games are against the Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers. After that, they'll be taking on the Warriors, the Mavericks, the Heat, and more. The Grizzlies currently sit in second place in the Western Conference standings. There have just 20 games remaining on their schedule before the beginning of the playoffs.
Taylor Jenkins' Explanation
[Via]