What we know - and don't know - about Grizzlies star Ja Morant's 25-game suspension

Ja Morant's discipline from the NBA finally came on Friday in the form of a 25-game suspension. The NBA sent out a lengthy statement detailing how it came to the decision, and also what's expected from the Memphis Grizzlies star point guard going forward.

There are still questions remaining on how Morant and the Grizzlies will proceed from here. This is a long enough suspension to change the outlook of the offseason, but the Grizzlies may not want to overreact.

Here's what we know about the impact of the NBA's decision and what's next for Morant and the Grizzlies.

Will Ja Morant be eligible for awards?

One of the most notable changes with the new collective bargaining agreement is the 65-game minimum for players to be eligible for regular season awards.

Since Morant’s suspension is 25 games, the most he can play is 57 times in the regular season. This means he will be ineligible for All-NBA, MVP and other awards that cover play throughout the regular season.

How much money is Ja Morant losing?

Morant’s past decisions have a steep price. He’s expected to lose more than $7 million dollars and more than $300,000 per game for the 25-game suspension.

According to the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, 50% of a player’s lost salary can account towards the luxury tax. Players lose 1/110th of salary for suspensions of more than 20 games.

Can Ja Morant participate in preseason practices?

This part remains unclear. The NBA’s initial statement noted that Morant will be unable to participate in public league or team activities, leaving open the possibility that he could return to practice in closed settings.

In the past, players have been able to return around their teammates before serving the full length of a suspension.

Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton was suspended 25 games in 2019 for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy, but he was practicing with the Suns and using team facilities before returning in December.

SUSPENSION IMPACT: How a Ja Morant suspension would impact Memphis Grizzlies roster moves in offseason and more

What day will Ja Morant be able to return to play?

The Grizzlies played their 25th game on Dec. 7 last season. So when Morant would return to play and how much will he be allowed to be around the team.

The more limited Morant’s exposure to the team facilities, the longer his ramp-up period will be after he’s cleared to return. In a perfect world, Morant will be working out with the Grizzlies and getting in game shape so he can return immediately after the suspension.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: What to know about about Ja Morant's 25-game NBA suspension