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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Sport
Oren Weisfeld

NBA veterans are more vital than ever. So why are they being pushed out?

Players such as Udonis Haslem (second right) can give younger players invaluable advice
Players such as Udonis Haslem (second right) can give younger players invaluable advice. Photograph: Rhona Wise/EPA

Shortly before Memphis Grizzles star Ja Morant flashed a handgun inside a strip club on Instagram Live in early March, his team held a players-only meeting. Steven Adams, the 10-year NBA veteran who at 29 is by far the oldest member of the Grizzlies, urged his younger teammates to conduct themselves more professionally on the road after starting the season 12-20 away from home.

But the message did not resonate with Memphis’ franchise player. Morant went to the strip club, acted recklessly, and was given a suspension for his actions.

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