Perkins Claims He Boosted Morant Coverage

ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins told the Out of the Mud podcast he no longer 'f— with Ja' after the guard’s off‑court troubles and claimed his on‑air support boosted ESPN’s coverage of Morant and the Grizzlies 'from three games…to 52.' Perkins said he still supports Morant’s father while criticizing the player’s conduct, remarks that prompted Morant to mock Perkins on X and reject Perkins’ claim that he was responsible for Morant’s notoriety. Morant has faced two suspensions related to firearm incidents and has had limited availability this season due to injuries, despite earlier accolades including Rookie of the Year and All‑NBA honors. The Grizzlies missed the 2023–24 playoffs, exited in the first round last season, and are 2–1 to start the current season with Morant on the floor. Perkins has said he faced extreme backlash and threats after past controversial comments in 2021, underscoring the heated reaction to public critiques of current players.