Ja Morant Trade Buzz Cools for Heat, Bucks Amid Grizzlies Uncertainty
In a season already filled with blockbuster movement, Ja Morant’s name has quickly risen to the top of the NBA rumor mill. The 26-year-old guard has been linked to several teams in recent weeks, sparking plenty of speculation about whether the Memphis Grizzlies might actually entertain the idea of moving their franchise centerpiece. But according to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, two of the most prominent suitors-Miami and Milwaukee-can likely be crossed off the list.
Bontemps, referencing the recent shockwave trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Lakers, made it clear: while the NBA has taught us to “never say never,” he’s confident Morant won’t be suiting up for the Heat or the Bucks.
That’s a notable statement, especially considering how often Miami is thrown into the mix whenever a star becomes even remotely available. The Heat have built a reputation on aggressive front-office moves and a willingness to swing big when the opportunity arises. But in this case, Bontemps believes the connection is overblown.
Same goes for Milwaukee. With the Bucks in full-on win-now mode, and every move seemingly centered around maximizing Giannis Antetokounmpo’s prime, it’s easy to see why Morant would be a tantalizing fit. But again, Bontemps shut the door on that possibility-for now.
So where does that leave Morant and the Grizzlies?
The buzz around a potential trade picked up steam after reports surfaced suggesting Memphis might be open to listening to offers. That chatter comes against the backdrop of a frustrating season for both player and team.
Morant has been limited to just 18 appearances through the Grizzlies’ first 39 games, with injuries continuing to be a concern. And with Memphis struggling to gain traction in the Western Conference standings, questions about the team’s long-term direction are only getting louder.
Still, moving Morant midseason would be a logistical challenge. He’s currently in the third year of a five-year, $197.2 million deal, earning just under $40 million this season. That kind of salary narrows the field of potential trade partners significantly-especially when factoring in the kind of return Memphis would demand for a two-time All-Star still in his prime.
For now, Morant has publicly stated he wants to remain in Memphis, and there’s no indication a deal is imminent. But in today’s NBA, where loyalty can shift overnight and superstars are more mobile than ever, it’s worth keeping an eye on how this situation unfolds.
The Grizzlies have a decision to make: stay the course with their franchise cornerstone or explore a future that could look very different. One thing’s clear-if Morant is moved, it won’t be to Miami or Milwaukee.