The Memphis Grizzlies are reportedly open to entertaining trade offers for All-Star guard Ja Morant for the first time this season, sources tell ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Entering Friday’s matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the team sits at 16-21, and talks about a potential Morant move are gaining traction.
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Morant, the 2019-20 NBA Rookie of the Year and former second overall pick, has faced a tumultuous run in Memphis.
Multiple suspensions stemming from incidents involving firearms on social media, coupled with injury-related absences, have created ongoing concerns for the franchise.
Tensions with first-year head coach Tuomas Iisalo have also fueled speculation.
The friction between Morant and Iisalo reportedly surfaced early in the season, particularly over substitution patterns. After a 117-112 loss to the Lakers on October 31, the two clashed in the locker room, with Morant calling out the coach for his rotation decisions.
The disagreement escalated to a one-game suspension, with Morant later admitting to reporters that he no longer felt the same joy on the court.
Teams reportedly showing interest
Interest in Morant is expected to grow in the weeks leading up to the February 5 trade deadline.
League insiders suggest that the Sacramento Kings, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Miami Heat could be in the mix, while the Los Angeles Clippers might also consider a move, though they reportedly lack the draft capital Memphis would want in a trade.
While the Grizzlies are exploring options for Morant, star big man Jaren Jackson Jr. remains untouchable, considered central to Memphis’ long-term plans.
The franchise has demonstrated a willingness to reshape the roster before, trading key starter Desmond Bane to Orlando for multiple future picks and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
Morant has delivered solid numbers this season, averaging 19.0 points, 7.6 assists, and 3.2 rebounds in 18 games while shooting 40.1 percent from the floor.
As the trade deadline approaches, Memphis may once again become a focal point in NBA discussions, following other high-profile moves like Trae Young‘s recent trade to Washington.
