This trade idea has all the ingredients of a blockbuster: a superstar on the move, a dynasty at a crossroads, and two franchises dealing with very different kinds of urgency. The proposed deal?
Ja Morant to the Golden State Warriors. And while it’s just a hypothetical, the timing-and the fit-make it worth unpacking.
The Trade Proposal:
Warriors receive:
- Ja Morant
- Vince Williams Jr.
Grizzlies receive:
- Buddy Hield
- Jonathan Kuminga
- Moses Moody
- Protected 2026 first-round pick
Let’s start with the Warriors. Golden State is in a strange spot right now-still armed with Stephen Curry, but clearly lacking the offensive juice to keep up with the league’s elite.
Jonathan Kuminga, once seen as a key piece of the next era, reportedly wants out. And without Jimmy Butler in the mix (he’s out for the year), the Warriors are short on two-way wing production and even shorter on players who can consistently pressure the rim.
That’s where Ja Morant comes in. He’s one of the league’s most dynamic downhill creators, a player who can bend defenses with his speed, vision, and relentless attacking mindset.
Sure, his return this season hasn’t been seamless-he’s averaging 19.3 points and 7.8 assists through 19 games, and his efficiency has taken a hit-but the burst is still there. And when you pair that with Curry’s gravity and off-ball movement?
You’ve got the makings of something explosive.
Would it be chaotic? Absolutely.
But that’s kind of the point. This version of the Warriors isn’t chasing perfection-they’re chasing a spark.
Morant could be that.
From Memphis’ side, this isn’t just about parting with a franchise player-it’s about timing, fit, and long-term flexibility. There’s been increasing noise around Morant’s future with the Grizzlies, and league chatter suggests there may be mutual interest in a separation.
Morant doesn’t have a no-trade clause, and his fit under new head coach Tuomas Iisalo hasn’t been seamless. The Grizzlies’ system relies on rhythm and flow, and Morant-who thrives on feel and freedom-has struggled with the short shifts and constant rotations.
In return, Memphis would be getting a package that checks several boxes. Kuminga is still just 23 and loaded with upside.
Moody has shown he can contribute in meaningful minutes. Buddy Hield helps balance salaries and could be flipped again for more assets.
And the 2026 first-round pick, even if protected, gives the Grizzlies another chip to play with as they retool around their young core.
Of course, this isn’t a clean, no-brainer trade. There are risks on both sides.
Morant’s off-court history and current production dip raise questions. The Warriors would be giving up on two young talents and a future pick for a player who may or may not fully click in their system.
Memphis, meanwhile, would be moving on from a face-of-the-franchise type player without getting a surefire star in return.
But trades like this rarely come wrapped in a bow. What makes this one compelling is that it feels rooted in the moment-two teams facing very different but equally pressing questions about their identity and direction.
For Golden State, it’s about maximizing whatever time is left with Curry at the helm. For Memphis, it’s about reshaping the roster in a way that better fits their evolving style and culture.
This isn’t a perfect proposal. But it’s timely. And in the NBA, timing often matters more than anything else.