Two Western Conference contenders are keeping a close watch on Ja Morant’s situation in Memphis - and for good reason.
According to recent reports, both the Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves are continuing to monitor Morant’s status as the Grizzlies wait for their franchise guard to recover from a right calf strain. These teams were already keeping tabs before, and they haven’t taken their eyes off the situation as the league inches closer to Morant’s potential return.
There’s still no official timetable, but early projections hinted at a possible return in early December. For now, Memphis is holding steady at 9-12, sitting ninth in the Western Conference - not ideal, but certainly not out of the mix. And considering the adversity they’ve faced, staying competitive without their star floor general is no small feat.
One of the more underrated aspects of Morant’s absence? His presence. Even in street clothes, he’s been locked in on the sideline, staying vocal and engaged - something head coach Tuomas Iisalo made a point to highlight.
“It is a huge advantage for us,” Iisalo said. “He is asking stuff of me and giving some tips there for the guys. Overall, really good communication, really good leadership, both from him and also from Jaren Jackson Jr. and our veteran guys.”
That kind of leadership matters, especially for a team trying to stay afloat in a brutal Western Conference. Morant’s energy, his voice, and his connection with teammates - even when he’s not on the floor - are helping steady the ship.
Before the injury, Morant had played in 12 games this season, averaging 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. The shooting numbers haven’t been where he’d like them - 35.9% from the field and just 16.7% from deep - but his ability to create offense and push the tempo remains a defining trait of this Grizzlies team.
From a financial standpoint, Morant is in the thick of a major contract. He’s owed $39.4 million this season, with that number climbing to $42.2 million next year and $44.9 million in 2027-28. That’s the kind of commitment that makes his health and long-term trajectory a top priority for Memphis - and a point of intrigue for teams watching from afar.
The former Rookie of the Year has taken the Grizzlies to the second round just once in his career. And while Memphis has shown flashes of being a team on the rise, the next chapter hinges heavily on Morant - both his availability and his impact. With trade speculation swirling and the Grizzlies trying to stay in the mix, his return isn’t just important for Memphis - it’s something the entire Western Conference is watching closely.