The Grizzlies are in a transitional phase, and while the focus might be on their current strategy, the looming question of Ja Morant's future is hard to ignore. As the offseason approaches, trade talks are buzzing, and some scenarios just don’t add up for Memphis.
Despite the chatter, the Grizzlies held onto Ja Morant at the trade deadline, even after parting ways with Jaren Jackson Jr. The market’s lukewarm response to Morant highlights a dip in his perceived value, driven by injury woes and inconsistent play over recent seasons.
So, where does that leave Memphis? Extending Morant’s contract seems off the table, leaving the team to either stick with him or explore trade options.
Trading Morant might make sense if the Grizzlies are eyeing a rebuild, but not all trade ideas are created equal. One proposal floating around involves sending Morant, GG Jackson II, and Cam Spencer to the Suns for Jalen Green and Khaman Maluach. For Memphis, this trade doesn’t hit the mark.
GG Jackson II is just 21 and showing impressive growth. His offensive off-ball skills and defensive prowess suggest a bright future in Memphis.
Cam Spencer, though he joined the league later, has quickly become a valuable scorer and playmaker. Trading these emerging talents would be a step back for a team looking to bolster its roster for the long haul.
On the Suns’ end, Maluach is a promising prospect but remains a work in progress. Memphis has other paths to strengthen their lineup, especially with a talent-rich 2026 NBA Draft on the horizon.
As for Jalen Green, he doesn’t fit the Grizzlies’ needs. At 24, with two years left on a hefty rookie extension, Green’s shooting struggles mirror some of Morant’s challenges.
His career 33.9% from beyond the arc, dipping to 30.6% in an injury-hit season, doesn’t inspire confidence.
Memphis needs a reliable guard to complement their lineup, but Green isn’t the answer. Trading Morant might be necessary, but not at the cost of losing promising players like GG Jackson II and Cam Spencer. The Grizzlies must tread carefully to ensure they don’t derail their rebuilding efforts before they even begin.