The Memphis Grizzlies are in a holding pattern-and so is the rest of the Western Conference, waiting to see what kind of spark Ja Morant might bring when he returns to the floor. According to reports, teams like the Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves are keeping a close eye on the situation, monitoring Morant’s status as his return from a right calf strain looms.
While there’s no firm date on when the electrifying guard will suit up again, early December was floated as a possible target. For now, though, it’s all about recovery and readiness. And even from the bench, Morant is making his presence felt.
Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo praised Morant’s vocal leadership during games, noting that the star guard has been actively engaged-asking questions, offering tips, and keeping the communication flowing. “It’s a huge advantage for us,” Iisalo said. “Really good communication, really good leadership, both from him and also from Jaren [Jackson Jr.] and our veteran guys.”
That’s the kind of presence you want from your franchise cornerstone-even when he’s in street clothes. And make no mistake, Morant is still the engine Memphis hopes to rev up soon.
The Grizzlies are 9-12 and sitting in ninth place in the West. It’s not where they expected to be, but it’s not beyond salvaging either, especially if Morant can return to form.
In the 12 games he’s played this season, Morant has averaged 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. The shooting numbers haven’t been pretty-just 35.9% from the field and a chilly 16.7% from three-but his free-throw shooting has been elite at 94.2%. It’s clear there’s rust, but there’s also room for a bounce-back.
Financially, Morant is locked in as a major piece of Memphis’ future. He’s set to make $39.4 million this season, with that number climbing to $44.9 million by the final year of his deal in 2027-28. That’s superstar money-and the Grizzlies are banking on superstar production once he’s fully healthy.
Still just 26 years old, Morant has already made his mark since being drafted second overall in 2019. He boasts career averages of 22.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game, and he was named Rookie of the Year in 2019-20. But while the highlights have been endless, the postseason success has been limited-just one trip to the second round so far.
That’s why teams like the Kings and Timberwolves are watching. Because if things don’t click in Memphis, and if the Grizzlies eventually consider shaking things up, Morant’s name would instantly become one of the most intriguing in the league. For now, though, it’s all about the comeback-and whether Morant can help steer Memphis back on track before the season slips away.