Ja Morant’s latest off-court incident could land him in big trouble with the NBA. Morant appeared to be shown holding a gun on Instagram live Saturday, which led to the Grizzlies‘ suspending him from team activities moving forward pending a league investigation.
Once the league investigates, it could punish Morant even further. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports Morant might be facing a “lengthy suspension” from the league over this situation.
“I sense already today that (NBA commissioner) Adam Silver’s going to feel increasing pressure from other teams in the league who see this as much as it impacts the Grizzlies, that it impacts them and their ability to market their players and their teams,” Wojnarowski said.
.@wojespn provides the latest on Ja Morant and his suspension: pic.twitter.com/Dw1fVFn9vn
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) May 14, 2023
The NBA already suspended Morant for eight games in March after he was seen on video flashing a gun at a Colorado nightclub. Before that suspension was handed down, Morant met with Silver to discuss his situation.
“There was a sense with that eight-game suspension during last season that Adam Silver showed some restraint in that edict with Ja Morant, took him at his word that he would make better decisions,” Wojnarowski said.
The league still needs to investigate the video and prove that it is legitimate, but if that is the case, Memphis might not have Morant to start next season.
“There is a real, real possibility if that is what it appeared to be, a weapon in Ja Morant’s hand, he again is likely going to face a significant suspension to start next season,” Wojnarowski said.