What is a potential landing spot for Ja Morant, what Grizzlies could get in return
Said Bravo- The Memphis Grizzlies may be considering trading star point guard Ja Morant after seven turbulent seasons.
- Morant's tenure has included All-Star selections and an All-NBA honor, but also suspensions and clashes with staff.
- A soured relationship and a season-ending injury have contributed to the potential trade talks.
(This story was updated with new information.)
Ja Morant is one of the most electric players and gifted athletes to ever play for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Despite a swell of euphoric moments on the court, at FedExForum and across the country, it has come with turbulence in recent years. In seven seasons, the point guard was named a two-time All-Star, NBA Rookie of the Year and earned All-NBA second-team honors in the 2021-22 season.
But he also suffered numerous injuries, was suspended for disciplinary reasons, and has clashed with the coaching staff as the Grizzles haven't been able to make a deep playoff run.
The Grizzlies shopping Morant is not because he's no longer a stellar player. His tenure has possibly run its course.
Morant's 2025-26 season ended due to a UCL tear in his elbow, which sidelined him for two months. Before he could return, the Grizzlies shut him down for the season due to "lingering discomfort."
The relationship between the organization and Morant has soured, and the two sides seem to be at odds. The Grizzlies are continuing to rebuild, while Morant, who will turn 27 in August, would be playing in his prime.
Morant has two years and $87 million left on his contract. The Grizzlies signed him to a five-year, $197 million extension in 2022. The deal made him the highest-paid player in franchise history.
The question is, where could Morant end up if the Grizzlies decide to trade him? The Miami Heat had been a top contender, but late June 22, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the Milwaukee Bucks had traded Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat in a blockbuster deal, essentially taking the Heat out of the picture for Morant.
New Orleans Pelicans
While the Pelicans have some ascending players, the team needs a star to complement Zion Williamson.
While they have struggled to muster up wins, bringing in Morant would give fans some optimism going forward.
If the Pelicans are willing to part ways with one of their ascending guards, such as 2025 first-round pick Jeremiah Fears, then the Grizzlies would likely take that in a heartbeat. Otherwise, they could acquire a veteran guard like Dejounte Murray and supplementary draft capital in compensation.
Reach Commercial Appeal sports intern Said Bravo at [email protected].