The Memphis Grizzlies haven’t been doing much lately to endear themselves to the rest of the NBA universe, and things compounded themselves during another busy week for The Daily Memphian’s sports staff.

But there was a bright note amid all the cold and ice that had many couped up at home all too long.

Shortly after a silly conspiracy theory that the Grizzlies’ stats crew was padding Jaren Jackson Jr.’s gaudy block numbers at home was debunked, Jackson joined star point guard Ja Morant as a pick to play in this month’s NBA All-Star Game.

It’s been mostly downhill from there, as beat writer Drew Hill has dutifully chronicled.

Dillon Brooks was ejected from a game Thursday at Cleveland for a low blow to Donovan Mitchell, sparking a skirmish that injured a Grizzlies security man and resulted in a one-game suspension for Brooks.

Over the weekend, Morant and coach Tyler Jenkins both addressed a The Athletic report saying acquaintances of Morant confronted members of Indiana’s travel party near the visiting team’s bus following Memphis’ Jan. 29 victory over the Pacers.

Jenkins confirmed the NBA had issued a statement indicating it was unable to corroborate allegations a red laser attached to a gun was pointed toward the travel party; Morant said on Twitter his “brother” — a close friend, actually — has been banned from FedExForum home games for a year.

It was another black eye for a franchise whose verbal sparring issues haven’t been a one-off. But, as columnist Geoff Caulkins wrote, “this incident — as overblown as it may have been — might be the one that causes Morant and those around him to take stock.”

All this amid the looming NBA trade deadline.

Phew.

It’s a lot to keep track of.

But Daily Memphian sportswriters have, along with covering the Memphis Tigers’ mistake-laden basketball loss to Tulane, the Tigers’ football National Signing Day additions, a high school basketball slate cut short by inclement weather, release of the Memphis Showboats’ 2023 USFL schedule and news that legendary Memphis wrestler Jerry “The King” Lawer suffered a stroke while in Florida.

Here are some highlights. — Deputy sports editor Tim Buckley

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The Grizzlies security team has been quick to break up skirmishes and protests. Thursday night they showed how it's done yet again. 

Related stories:

Dillon Brooks suspended one game for scuffle with Donovan Mitchell

Herrington: As Grizzlies approach trade deadline, they should focus on a 3-year window

Ja Morant called The Athletic’s recounting of the events following the Pacers game last month false, and said the Grizzlies are the most hated team in the NBA.  By Drew Hill

Brandon Clarke said distractions are not the reason the Grizzlies are struggling, and that the team is “all grown.” Related story: Grizzlies Insider: If Santi Aldama is ‘Luigi,’ he’s a dang good sidekick By Drew Hill

Longtime wrestling commentator Dave Brown provides update after “The King” underwent surgery. By Tim Buckley

A look at each offensive position group for the Tigers, and a comparison to how it stacks up to last year’s talent using step up, step down and push as distinctions. By Frank Bonner II

Whether on Thursday’s trade deadline or in July’s free agency period a few months from now, as an ending or a new beginning, Grizzlies guard Dillon Brooks’ time in Memphis is on a crash course with clarity.  By Chris Herrington

The former Tigers quarterback will reprise his role for the Showboats, whose 2023 schedule was announced Tuesday by the USFL.  Related:  USFL reveals 2023 Memphis Showboats schedule By Frank Bonner II

The Memphis Showboats will play six games this year at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. By Tim Buckley

Ja Morant would be better off if he asked his friends and family to let him flourish in the spotlight he has earned. By Geoff Calkins

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