In a surprising development, an NBA executive has identified Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant as a potential trade candidate this summer if the team fails to advance far in the playoffs. Howard Beck of The Ringer reported that the executive mentioned Morant as someone to “keep an eye on” during the offseason.
The executive, who frequently checks in with other league executives around trade deadlines, noted that the Grizzlies’ performance in the playoffs could influence their decision. “I’m constantly checking in with executives around trade deadline about like, okay, what we saw, what we didn’t see, what’s next, and in this league, you are always, always, always on the lookout for who’s the next wave of stars that are going to get dealt, right?” Beck relayed on the podcast.
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While the Grizzlies are currently performing well, sitting in second place in the Western Conference, the executive believes that an early playoff exit could prompt the team to reconsider their roster strategy.
There is reason behind this thought
Ja Morant, who has been a cornerstone of the Grizzlies’ success, has faced some challenges, including injuries and off-court issues. Despite these hurdles, he continues to be a key player for the team, averaging over 20 points per game this season.
“They’re just deep enough into the Ja Morant life cycle, and also the Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr. grouping,” Beck added. “They’re young enough, they should have plenty of runway. But again, in this league, you never have as much runway as you think you’re going to have.”
The executive emphasized that while there is no definitive plan to trade Morant, it is something to monitor if the Grizzlies do not perform as expected in the playoffs. “I’m not saying it’s going to happen, I’m not saying it should happen. I’m just saying it’s one of those things I’m just kind of keeping an eye on if they were to flame out early.”
