The controversy around Ja Morant has been a major point of discussion in the past few weeks. When the storm around the Grizzlies star eventually started to clear, images of Morant at a strip club were leaked, sending major shockwaves throughout the hoops community. According to various reports, the Memphis Grizzlies star spent over $50,000 at the strip club. The leaked images from the strip club revealed a money-filled floor. In addition, the eight-game suspension from the league cost him $668,659. However, this may just be the tip of the iceberg.
Morant has already served his eight-game suspension and was eligible for the game against Dallas Mavericks. But he did not return as he is currently undergoing a return-to-play conditioning program However, there is optimism that the reigning MIP could return against the Houston Rockets.
Ja Morant could lose $40 million
Ja Morant is in the final year of his rookie contract and his rookie max extension will kick in next year. He signed a five-year $194.3 million extension with the Memphis Grizzlies prior to the 2022-23 season. This extension was expected to increase up to $233 million. According to a report from Sporting News, Morant will make $233 million if he wins the MVP award or the Defensive Player of the Year award or if he earns an All-NBA selection this season.
With news that Ja Morant has entered counseling in Florida, it's hard to imagine him making All-NBA, which I think would have been likely without these incidents. Not making All-NBA would cost him about $39 million, reducing his contract from a projected 5/$233m to 5/$194m
— Nate Duncan (@NateDuncanNBA) March 14, 2023
The 23-year-old is not in the running for either the MVP award or the DPOY award this season. Amongst the three, making one of the three All-NBA teams looks likely for the high-flying guard and could earn him another $40 million. Notably, he made the All-NBA second team last season as well.
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However, the two-time NBA All-Star faces a lot of competition from other guards for the All-NBA teams. Furthermore, his actions could have tarnished his chances. As per the report, the self-inflicted damage, which made him unavailable for the team, could affect his candidacy. If Morant does not make any of the All-NBA teams, he will miss out on a whopping $40 million.
Morant returns to the FedEx Forum
Ja Morant was anticipated to be back against the Dallas Mavericks after serving his eight-game suspension. However, he did not make the team and could be seen on the bench cheering his teammates at the FedEx Forum.
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The point guard received a warm reception from the Memphis Grizzlies fans as well. Head coach Taylor Jenkins is hopeful Morant could be back on the court against the Houston Rockets.
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