The Memphis Grizzlies appear to be heading toward a seismic shift this offseason, with league sources indicating the franchise plans to trade star guard Ja Morant. While the team stayed quiet at the trade deadline, that silence shouldn’t be mistaken for indecision. According to reports, the Grizzlies are playing the long game - willing to endure short-term discomfort in exchange for what they hope will be a more sustainable future.
Morant, currently sidelined with a left elbow UCL sprain, is in the midst of a $39.4 million season. His contract - which escalates to $42.1 million next year and $44 million in 2027-28 - doesn’t include a no-trade clause, giving Memphis flexibility as they explore potential deals.
And make no mistake, they’ve been exploring. The Grizzlies fielded offers at the deadline, and while nothing materialized, the message was clear: Morant is available, but only for the right return.
That return, according to rival executives, would likely center around draft capital and young talent.
The Miami Heat were among the teams linked to Morant but ultimately backed off, reportedly due to concerns about his injury history and the size of his deal. The Bucks and Kings also surfaced as potential suitors, but no traction was reported with either.
For Memphis, this is more than a transactional decision - it’s a philosophical pivot. Morant has been the face of the franchise since being drafted second overall in 2019.
He burst onto the scene as Rookie of the Year and quickly became one of the league’s most electrifying players. His athleticism, court vision, and fearless mentality made him must-watch TV and helped lift the Grizzlies into the playoff conversation.
But since the team’s 2022 run to the second round, things haven’t quite clicked.
This season has been a tough one for both Morant and the Grizzlies. He’s only played in 20 games, averaging 19.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per contest. The efficiency hasn’t been there - shooting just 41.0% from the field and a rough 23.5% from deep - but he’s still managed to showcase his playmaking ability and knack for getting to the line, where he’s hitting nearly 90%.
At 26, Morant still has plenty of prime years ahead, and his career averages - 22.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists - speak to the kind of impact player he can be when healthy and focused. But between injuries and off-court issues that have clouded parts of his young career, Memphis may be ready to reset the timeline.
The Grizzlies have already started reshaping the roster, dealing Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz. With the team sitting 11th in the West, outside the play-in picture, it’s clear the front office is looking ahead. Trading Morant would mark the end of an era - but also the beginning of something new.
There’s no denying Morant’s talent or the excitement he brings to the game. But for Memphis, the question isn’t about what he’s done - it’s about what comes next. And from all indications, the next chapter won’t include their former franchise cornerstone.