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[Saba Sports News] With Luka Doncic recently traded, another young NBA star could be next on the move.
On the Real One podcast this week, The Ringer’s Howard Beck suggested that the Memphis Grizzlies might consider trading franchise cornerstone Ja Morant this offseason. Citing intel from an anonymous NBA executive, Beck revealed that Morant’s name has surfaced in trade discussions.
“I’m constantly checking in with executives around the trade deadline,” Beck said, per The Memphis Commercial Appeal.
“And in this league, you are always on the lookout for the next wave of stars who could get dealt. We just saw the shock of all shocks with the Luka deal. We saw Jimmy Butler. There are already whispers once again about Giannis [Antetokounmpo]. And somebody out of the blue said, ‘Keep an eye on Ja this summer,’” Beck added.
At 25, Morant remains the face of the Grizzlies and has already earned multiple All-Star nods and an All-NBA selection. However, he is having a down season, averaging 20.7 points per game—his lowest since 2020-21—on 45/32/81 shooting splits.
Injuries continue to be an issue, as he has played in just 32 of Memphis’ 54 games this year, and his off-court controversies are well-documented. Additionally, his aggressive play style has raised long-term concerns among analysts.
Despite Morant’s diminished role, the Grizzlies are thriving at 36-18, currently sitting second in the Western Conference.
With three years remaining on his five-year, $197.2 million rookie extension signed in 2022, Memphis may soon have to decide whether Morant’s talent outweighs the risks. If they believe his health, maturity, and overall fit pose ongoing issues, exploring trade offers could be a real possibility.