Blake Griffin Calls Out Ja Morant's Lax Effort for Grizzlies

Merlin sees former star Blake Griffin calling out Ja Morant’s effort after Memphis’ 117-112 loss to the Lakers, calling it “a very bad sign.” Griffin tore into Morant’s lazy cuts and poor ball-screen reads for a player “making $40 million” who must lead this club. Morant managed just eight points (3-of-14, 0-of-6 from deep) and snapped at reporters with “go ask the coaching staff” and “According to [the coaching staff], probably don’t play me,” underscoring clear frustration. Merlin notes the context: a new coach in Tuomas Iisalo, a 3-3 start and a star shooting 40.6% overall and 15.6% from deep. This is a crossroads — Morant can snap back and carry Memphis, or friction and habits will slow their climb.