The Sacramento Kings are no strangers to swinging big when the trade deadline looms, and this year, they’re reportedly eyeing one of the most electrifying - and polarizing - names in the league: Ja Morant.
Despite reports that Morant and his camp have little interest in a move to Sacramento, the Kings remain linked to the Memphis Grizzlies star as Thursday’s trade deadline draws near. It’s a situation that’s raising eyebrows around the league - and not just because of Morant’s reported reluctance.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, there’s still a chance that Sacramento could pull the trigger on a deal, even with Morant’s trade value dipping and his interest in the Kings reportedly lukewarm at best. Windhorst noted that players around the league are shocked by the lack of demand for Morant, given his undeniable talent.
“They cannot believe that nobody wants Ja Morant,” Windhorst said. “Because the guy is such an incredible talent.”
And that’s the crux of the situation: the talent is there. The question is whether the risk is worth the reward - and whether the Kings are the team willing to take that gamble.
On the surface, Sacramento’s interest makes sense. General manager Scott Perry appears to be exploring ways to shed salary and perhaps inject some star power into the roster.
Morant, even in a down year, still carries a level of electricity that few players in the league can match. He’s a name that would immediately energize the fan base and bring a new dynamic to the Kings’ backcourt.
But this isn’t the same Ja Morant who lit up the league in 2021-22, when he averaged 27.4 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.7 rebounds en route to a Most Improved Player award and a spot among the NBA’s elite. That version of Morant was appointment viewing - a high-flying, fearless floor general who looked like the future of the league.
Fast forward to the current season, and the picture isn’t quite as bright. Morant has appeared in just 20 games for Memphis so far, averaging 19.5 points and 8.1 assists on an inefficient 52.1% true shooting. For a player whose game relies so heavily on explosiveness and rhythm, the inconsistency - both on and off the court - has clearly taken a toll.
That dip in production has tanked his trade value, and it’s part of why a deal with Sacramento, or any team for that matter, is far from a sure thing. Combine that with Morant’s reported disinterest in joining the Kings, and it’s a complicated puzzle for any front office to solve.
Still, Sacramento’s front office has never been afraid to take swings. Whether it’s a calculated risk or a last-ditch attempt to shake up a roster that’s been hovering around the playoff bubble, the Kings appear to be doing their due diligence. If they believe Morant can return to form - or at least provide a spark - the gamble might just be worth it.
But make no mistake: this isn’t a move without risk. Morant’s injury history, recent off-court controversies, and current production all raise legitimate concerns. Yet, for a franchise that’s been trying to claw its way back into relevance for years, the chance to land a former All-Star with sky-high upside is the kind of move that could change the narrative in a hurry - for better or worse.
As the deadline approaches, the clock is ticking. Whether the Kings make a move or stand pat, one thing is clear: they’re not content with the status quo. And if they do go all-in on Morant, they’ll be betting big on a bounce-back - and on their ability to be the right environment for him to rediscover his All-NBA form.