Markieff Morris Reportedly Asked to Apologize to Team After 2-Game Suspension

Phoenix Suns forward Markieff Morris is set to return from a two-game suspension, but he reportedly must first apologize for the actions that landed him in the organization's doghouse.

According to Marc J. Spears of Yahoo Sports, Suns general manager Ryan McDonough asked Morris to meet with him, head coach Jeff Hornacek and team president Lon Babby prior to practice Tuesday, and to apologize to those impacted by the situation that led to the disciplinary action.

Morris was suspended for two games last week for conduct detrimental to the team after throwing a towel at Hornacek during a 104-96 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Dec. 23.

While Morris is expected to comply with the Suns' requests, Spears reported there is confusion among those close to Morris since he already apologized on Twitter.

"My frustration got the best of me last night. It won't happen again. I apologize to Jeff. My teammates told me I hit coach with the towel," Morris said. "In no way was that towel intended for him. I just want to help my team win so much. That's my focus moving forward."

Morris was also apologetic toward his teammates since his actions caused him to miss a big clash with the Cleveland Cavaliers: "I want to apologize to my teammates for not being there to battle with them during tough times."

The 2015-16 season has been rife with controversy for the 26-year-old veteran, stemming from the Suns' decision to trade his twin brother, Marcus Morris, to the Detroit Pistons.

Markieff made it clear he wanted to be traded, but the Suns refused to honor his request.

Things eventually cooled down, but frustration has started to mount for the former Kansas standout since he is shooting under 38 percent from the field and averaging just 10.8 points per game.

His poor performance has impacted his playing time, and it was likely a major contributing factor in the situation that ultimately got him suspended.

Phoenix is very much in the Western Conference playoff race despite its poor record (12-21, No. 12 in the West), but it needs a focused, determined Morris in order to make a run.

While an official apology could go a long way toward restoring team harmony, it is also possible he is too far gone.

Morris can be a quality player when he is locked in, but the fact that he has generated so much unwanted publicity this season suggests the Suns may have to send him and his potentially damaging attitude elsewhere before they can truly contend for a playoff spot.

Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter.