Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant didn’t hold back his frustration with the team’s coaching approach after watching his squad fall 117-112 to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.
Sharp Words From the Star Guard
When reporters gathered around Morant after the loss, expecting the usual post-game analysis, they got something entirely different. Instead of dissecting plays or discussing what went wrong, Morant pushed back with a pointed response: “Go ask the coaching staff.” Press him on his own struggles or potential adjustments? Same answer – take it up with the coaches.
But Morant wasn’t finished. His most telling comment came when he suggested, “According to them, probably don’t play me, honestly. That’s basically what the message was after.“
The frustration becomes clearer when you look at the numbers. Morant managed just eight points while shooting a woeful 3-of-14 from the field. His playing time has also taken a hit, dropping to a career-low 28.5 minutes per game this season – a concerning trend for a player of his caliber.
Blake Griffin Weighs In
Morant’s performance and postgame attitude caught the attention of former NBA veteran Blake Griffin, who didn’t mince words during Amazon Prime’s coverage. “For a guy making $40 million who needs to lead the team, I don’t love what I saw,” Griffin said bluntly.
Griffin’s critique went beyond just the offensive struggles, noting that Morant’s defensive effort appeared lacking – something that can’t be overlooked when you’re expected to set the tone for your teammates.
Growing Pains Under New Management
These brewing tensions come at a delicate time for Memphis. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo is still finding his footing in his first complete season leading the franchise, having taken over after Taylor Jenkins was let go following six years at the helm.
The Lakers loss leaves Memphis sitting at 3-3 to start the 2025-26 season – not exactly the statement they hoped to make early on. With questions swirling about team chemistry and whether Iisalo can command respect in the locker room, Morant’s public criticism adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging transition period.
