Ja Morant Trade Buzz Grows-But Don’t Expect a Deal with New Orleans
As the NBA trade deadline creeps closer, Ja Morant’s name is starting to echo louder around front offices-and the Memphis Grizzlies may be more open to change than they’ve let on.
Let’s be clear: the Grizzlies aren’t in talks with the New Orleans Pelicans, and that’s not expected to change. But that doesn’t mean Memphis is standing pat.
According to league sources, there’s mutual interest between Morant and the Grizzlies in exploring a potential split. That’s a major development for a franchise that has built much of its identity around the electric guard.
Morant, currently sidelined with a UCL sprain in his left elbow, has played just 20 games this season. He’s averaging 19.5 points, 8.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds-a solid stat line, though his shooting has taken a hit. He’s expected to miss about three more weeks, but that hasn’t cooled interest around the league.
In fact, rival executives believe Memphis is eyeing a rebuild-or at least a retool-with a focus on acquiring young talent and draft picks. Morant, who’s owed $39.4 million this season and doesn’t have a no-trade clause, could be a major chip in that process.
Internally, things haven’t been smooth either. Sources say Morant has grown frustrated with head coach Tuomas Iisalo’s rotation patterns. The frequent short stints and wholesale substitutions have reportedly disrupted his rhythm, adding to the tension between player and staff.
That friction, combined with Memphis’ current position-11th in the West-has only fueled speculation. Meanwhile, the Pelicans, despite holding Morant’s hometown ties, are reportedly not in the mix. They’re struggling with the worst record in the conference and seem to be headed in a different direction altogether.
Teams like Milwaukee, Toronto, Sacramento, and Miami have all been linked to Morant in recent chatter. And with the Feb. 5 trade deadline looming, expect the noise to get louder.
Morant’s future in Memphis, once thought to be rock-solid, is now one of the league’s most intriguing storylines.