Ja Morant update: "The NBA could come down with a more stringent penalty" - Shams Charania gives the latest on Memphis Grizzlies star's suspension

Ja Morant was suspended "at least two games" by the Memphis Grizzlies after he was seen showing a gun while live on Instagram on Saturday morning.

The incident sparked an investigation by the league. As of now, there is little on if a bigger punishment is on the way for the All-Star point guard.

While discussing the matter on "FanDuel TV," NBA insider Shams Charania said that the league could have a harsher punishment on the way for Ja Morant:

"I'm told the league could suspend him even on top of the two games that he has already received. 'Cause technically those two games he's away from the team, he's essentially suspended, but from what I gathered, he's still being paid. So, the NBA could come down with a more stringent penalty, more stringent discipline."

FanDuel TV

@FanDuelTV

“Ja Morant will be away from the team for the foreseeable future… The league could suspend him even on top of the two games that he’s already received”

@ShamsCharania with the latest on Ja Morant

#RunItBack

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“Ja Morant will be away from the team for the foreseeable future… The league could suspend him even on top of the two games that he’s already received”

@ShamsCharania with the latest on Ja Morant 👀

#RunItBack https://t.co/izwbfF2g1t

Ja Morant suspension could derail the Memphis Grizzlies' season

It goes without saying how big of a blow this is for the Memphis Grizzlies (38-25), who are second in the Western Conference. Losing Ja Morant for an extended period could derail any hopes they have of making a deep playoff run.

For the majority of the year, the Grizzlies have been near the top of the West. This is in large part because of their top player. In 53 games, he is averaging 27.1 points, 6.0 rebounds and 8.2 assists.

As we hit the home stretch of the regular season, the Grizzlies have a thin margin for error. The Sacramento Kings (37-26) are only one game behind them, and the Phoenix Suns (36-29) are within striking distance. With Kevin Durant in the mix now, they could easily climb a couple spots in the coming weeks.

For the Grizzlies to be a threat in the West, they need Morant in the lineup. More importantly, having zero distractions heading into the playoffs is a must. As a younger team lacking postseason experience, Memphis will need extreme focus.

There is still no telling how this will all play out for Morant and the Grizzlies, but if he receives a harsh punishment, it could shatter their playoff dreams.

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