Following a 116-99 win over the Lakers in Game 5, the Grizzlies understand that there’s still a lot of work to be done. With regard to pressure, the team’s star, Ja Morant, recognizes that the brunt of it will fall on him. However, he is relishing the opportunity to lead Memphis to a potential Game 7 at home.
When asked about what it would take to force a Game 7, Morant said that the onus is on him. Not only must he be the leader of the team but he can’t allow his reputation to precede him, either. Despite being only 23 years old, Morant is aware of the “pedestal” he is on.
Ja Morant on what it’s going to take for the Grizzlies to force a Game 7: “Me being a leader and being ready for this pedestal everybody got me on.”
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) April 27, 2023
“Me being a leader and being ready for this pedestal everybody got me on,” Morant told ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
Thus far in the series, Morant has lived up to his touted name. He injured his right hand after suffering a fall in Game 1 — an injury that forced him to miss Game 2. However, since returning, he’s been sensational.
In Game 3, Morant put up a scintillating 45 points, 13 assists, and 9 rebounds on 50/60/93 shooting splits. While the Grizzlies did lose 111-101, it was the two-time All-Star that single-handedly cut their deficit. In a seven-minute stretch during the fourth quarter, Morant scored 22 straight points for the Grizzlies. Unfortunately, they were unable to capitalize on his momentum.
In last night’s game, Morant posted 31 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists en route to a 17-point win over Los Angeles. He will look to put on another virtuoso in Game 6 on Friday as Memphis tries to extend the series.
