Signs of departure? Morant and the Grizzlies coaching staff have a rift: as a leader, he is sending poor signals

On November 1st Beijing time, Isola is just starting his first full season as the Grizzlies’ head coach, yet his key players have already expressed dissatisfaction with him.

In the Grizzlies’ defeat against the Lakers, Morant had a poor showing. After the game, when questioned by the media about his own performance, he repeatedly directed them to “ask the coaching staff” or “ask him (meaning Isola).”

When asked if he had any other thoughts about the game, according to Grizzlies reporter Michael Cole, Morant replied, “Honestly, according to them (the coaching staff), maybe I shouldn’t have even played.”

In the game against the Lakers, Morant played 30 minutes and 58 seconds, making only 3 of 14 shots for 8 points, along with 7 assists. Although Morant has played in all six games for the Grizzlies this season, he has not exceeded 32 minutes in any single game. Additionally, on defense, he was dominated by Lakers star Doncic, who scored a staggering 44 points in this match.

Morant also denied having any physical issues during the post-game interview. So far, the media has not had the chance to question head coach Isola about Morant’s remarks.

Former All-Star Griffin criticized Morant after the game. Now working as a commentator, Griffin said, “A player earning $40 million a year who should be the team leader acting like this is something I just can’t accept. I don’t know if he’s unwell or injured, but in my opinion, this is a very bad sign, and this situation needs to change.”

So far this season, Morant’s overall shooting percentage is 40.6%, with a three-point shooting rate of only 15.6%. He is currently in the third year of a five-year, $197.2 million contract, while the Grizzlies have started the season with a 3-3 record.

Clearly, Morant is no stranger to controversy. In 2023, he was suspended twice by the league for “conduct detrimental to the league” after posting videos on social media holding a weapon.

Morant’s statements indicate a certain divide between him and the current coaching staff. Whether this divide will lead him to request a trade or prompt management to consider trading him remains to be seen.