The Memphis Grizzlies look like a team hitting the reset button. Earlier this week, they made a big move by trading away Jaren Jackson Jr., a two-time All-Star and a key figure in their recent core.
That kind of decision doesn’t just hint at a rebuild-it screams it. And naturally, when a franchise starts over, the next question becomes: what happens to the face of the team?
That face, of course, is Ja Morant.
There’s been buzz around Morant’s future for a while now, and with the trade deadline looming, the noise has only gotten louder. One team that’s been consistently linked to the explosive point guard?
The Miami Heat. The interest is real, and it’s mutual-league sources have pointed to Miami as Morant’s preferred destination.
But with just hours left before the trade window closes, it’s looking more and more like a deal won’t get done.
Here’s why: despite the intrigue surrounding Morant’s availability, the Grizzlies have had a tough time drumming up a serious market for him. According to reports, teams aren’t exactly lining up to part with a first-round pick-something Memphis appears to be holding out for.
General manager Zach Kleiman and the front office are reportedly open to moving Morant if they can secure that kind of asset. But so far, no one’s biting.
Miami’s stance has been clear. The Heat are interested, but they’re not going to mortgage their future for a player who, while immensely talented, comes with some baggage and uncertainty.
The front office is only willing to offer expiring contracts and second-round picks at this point-no first-rounders, not even one down the line. That’s a major sticking point.
It’s also worth noting that Miami has had its eye on another superstar: Giannis Antetokounmpo. While the Bucks have made it clear they’re not moving him-at least not right now-the Heat are keeping that door open for the summer.
That’s another reason they’re reluctant to give up premium assets today. They’re playing the long game.
There’s been some chatter about a hypothetical trade involving Terry Rozier, Simone Fontecchio, and a 2029 first-round pick-something that could, on paper, satisfy Memphis’ demands. But unless Miami changes its stance on including that future first-rounder, that deal is going nowhere fast.
So here we are, just hours from the deadline, and the odds of Morant suiting up in South Beach this season are slim. Could something dramatic happen before 3 p.m.?
Sure. But as it stands, the Heat aren’t willing to meet the Grizzlies’ asking price, and Memphis isn’t budging without a first-rounder on the table.
For now, Morant remains in Memphis. But with the Grizzlies clearly shifting into rebuild mode, this probably isn’t the end of the story-just the end of this chapter.