Ja Morant Calls Out Grizzlies Coaches After Lakers Loss

Merlin sees Ja Morant visibly frustrated after a 3-of-14, eight-point outing in Friday's 117-112 loss to the Lakers — a night he told reporters to "go ask the coaching staff." The loss, with Luka Dončić pouring in 44, has Memphis at 3-3 and highlights growing tension with coach Tuomas Iisalo in his first full season. It matters because the Grizzlies’ upside rests on Morant clicking with the staff and the team’s chemistry holding steady. Merlin senses a crossroads: this roster is playoff-caliber with Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., but internal friction can dim that light. If Iisalo and Morant find a shared plan — not a truce, but a working language — Memphis stays dangerous; if not, the early season strain could cost cohesion. Expect staff meetings, minor tweaks, and quick tests of resolve.