The Memphis Grizzlies sent shockwaves through the NBA on Tuesday by trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz - a move that signals more than just a roster shake-up. It’s a clear pivot in direction for a team that, not long ago, looked like it was knocking on the door of title contention.
Jackson, a two-time All-Star and the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, has been a cornerstone of Memphis’ identity. His departure doesn’t just leave a hole in the frontcourt - it raises questions about the franchise’s long-term vision. And naturally, all eyes now turn to Ja Morant.
Morant, the explosive guard who’s been the face of the franchise since his arrival, is still serving a suspension but remains one of the league’s most dynamic talents. With Jackson gone, it’s fair to wonder: is Morant next?
There’s already chatter around the league about what a potential Morant trade might look like, and one scenario that’s gaining traction involves the Miami Heat.
According to reports, Miami could be a serious suitor if Memphis decides to fully lean into a rebuild. But acquiring Morant wouldn’t be easy - or cheap.
The 24-year-old is owed $34.9 million this season, with that number jumping to $42.2 million next year and $44.9 million in 2027-28, all fully guaranteed. On top of that, there’s a 15% trade kicker baked into his deal, which complicates things further for any team looking to take him on.
Still, the Heat are no strangers to bold moves. And when you look at their current cap sheet, there’s a path - albeit a risky one - to making something happen.
One possibility floated involves moving off the expiring contracts of Terry Rozier ($26.6 million) and Simone Fontecchio ($8.3 million) to match salaries. That wouldn’t be a blockbuster in terms of talent coming back to Memphis, but if the Grizzlies are prioritizing financial flexibility and a reset, it could be enough to get the conversation started.
Of course, Rozier isn’t on Morant’s level as a player. That’s not even a debate. But the 31-year-old does bring something to the table that Memphis might value in the short term: playoff experience and veteran steadiness.
Back in 2018, Rozier was a key figure in the Celtics’ surprising run to the Eastern Conference Finals. He dropped 26 points, dished out nine assists, and grabbed six boards in a do-or-die Game 7 against the Bucks in the first round. Then he followed that up with a strong series against the Sixers, averaging 19 points per game on efficient shooting from the field and beyond the arc.
Since leaving Boston, Rozier hasn’t been back to the postseason, but that doesn’t erase what he’s done on the big stage. For a young Grizzlies team looking to recalibrate, his presence could offer some much-needed stability and leadership - especially if Morant is on the move and a new era is beginning in Memphis.
This isn’t just about who’s coming or going - it’s about identity. The Grizzlies have been one of the league’s grittiest, most exciting young teams in recent years, built around the core of Morant and Jackson. With one piece already gone, the next few weeks could determine whether Memphis is retooling around Morant… or turning the page entirely.