Memphis Grizzlies rookie point guard Ja Morant will not participate in the slam dunk contest during the NBA's All-Star Weekend, according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.
Morant had been mulling a potential appearance, but is instead focused on “maintaining good health for the duration of the season:”
Memphis Grizzlies standout rookie Ja Morant has decided not to participate in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend in Chicago next month, league sources told Yahoo Sports.
Maintaining good health for the duration of the season is his main priority, sources said.
Morant, the No. 2 overall pick, has been cautious in his recovery from back spasms that occurred as a result of crashing into a baseline camera operator in November.
While Morant will not be involved in All-Star Saturday, Haynes also reported the leading Rookie of the Year candidate has not ruled out his involvement in future contests.
The former Murray State standout has been a walking highlight-reel for the Grizzlies. From high-flying dunks to an assortment of dribble moves and step-back jumpers, Morant is taking the league by storm.
Memphis have won six straight after defeating the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night. Morant had his best game of the season against former NBA MVP James Harden scoring 26 points on 10-of-11 shooting while also tallying eight assists and five rebounds.
The Grizzlies have surged into playoff contention due to this latest winning streak, and Morant has been at the very center of their rebirth. He is averaging 20.3 points, 8.9 assists and 4.4 rebounds through seven games this month, according to Basketball Reference.
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