Trade Deadline Fallout: Grizzlies Hold Onto Morant, Explore Options for Summer Shakeup
The NBA trade deadline came and went with plenty of movement-but one name that stayed put, somewhat unexpectedly, was Ja Morant. According to league sources, Morant himself was caught off guard that a deal never materialized, especially with the Memphis Grizzlies actively engaged in talks with multiple teams, including the Heat, Timberwolves, and Bucks.
Memphis wasn’t just browsing. They were listening, evaluating, and negotiating-but ultimately, they weren’t willing to settle.
The kind of return they were looking for? Think Trae Young-level, and nothing less.
That set a high bar, and no team came close to clearing it.
The Bucks, for instance, had exploratory talks involving guard Ryan Rollins, but things stalled when names like Kyle Kuzma and Bobby Portis entered the conversation. Both players are on multiyear guaranteed deals, and the Grizzlies weren’t interested in bringing on that kind of long-term salary-at least not without a sweetener.
Now, Memphis had previously indicated they’d be open to taking on long-term contracts if they came attached to first-round draft capital. But Milwaukee only has one tradable first-round pick, and there’s no sign they were willing to part with it for Morant.
So, Morant stays-for now. But don’t expect that to be the case for long.
The expectation around the league is that Memphis will revisit trade scenarios this summer, when more teams have cap flexibility and draft picks in play. And with Morant expected to return from his left elbow injury not long after the All-Star break, there’s a window for both player and team to benefit.
Memphis may be in full rebuild mode, but getting Morant back on the floor gives him a chance to reestablish his value with a strong finish to the season.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Drew Plenty of Interest Before Being Moved to Utah
While Morant stayed, Jaren Jackson Jr. was on the move-to the Jazz. But not before several other teams tried to get in the mix.
In addition to previously reported interest from the Warriors and Raptors, the Pistons and Hawks also made inquiries. The Suns and Hornets reportedly kicked the tires as well.
Still, none of those conversations gained serious traction, and Utah ultimately won out.
Bulls Tried to Flip Picks for Yves Missi, But Pelicans Held Firm
The Chicago Bulls were one of the more active teams in the second-round pick market, walking away from the deadline with eight of them. They tried to use some of that draft capital to pry second-year center Yves Missi away from New Orleans, but the Pelicans weren’t biting. They were holding out for a first-rounder, and with no team meeting that price, Missi stayed put.
Celtics’ Vucevic Deal Signals Confidence in Tatum’s Return
One under-the-radar move that raised eyebrows around the league was Boston’s decision to swap Anfernee Simons for Nikola Vucevic. It wasn’t just about fit-it was a signal. League sources see it as a clear indication the Celtics expect Jayson Tatum to return before season’s end.
Simons had been the team’s fourth-leading scorer, but with a healthy Tatum back in the mix, his role would’ve likely diminished. Bringing in Vucevic gives Boston a more traditional frontcourt presence for the stretch run, suggesting they’re gearing up for a deep playoff push with their star forward back in the fold.
Looking Ahead
The trade deadline may be behind us, but the ripple effects are just beginning. Memphis is clearly recalibrating, and Morant’s future will be one of the biggest storylines to watch this offseason. Meanwhile, teams like Boston and Chicago are already positioning themselves for what comes next-whether that’s a playoff run or a summer of strategic moves.
Stay tuned. The second half of the season is shaping up to be just as unpredictable as the first.