It is looking like the tumultuous Ja Morant era for the Memphis Grizzlies is nearing its end. A few years […]
It is looking like the tumultuous Ja Morant era for the Memphis Grizzlies is nearing its end. A few years ago, the 26-year-old was emerging as one of the new faces of the NBA. However, multiple off-court issues and injuries over the last few years, as well as a recent disconnect with his current head coach, have pushed the Grizz to ponder life without him, and they are reportedly taking trade offers from interested teams, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
There are multiple franchises reportedly pursuing the two-time All-Star, and Memphis is prioritizing draft assets and young players in a return for Morant. With that in mind, let’s look at five likely suitors for the difficult but talented guard.
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are always linked to a star player that could be available in a trade, and that is unlikely to change when it comes to Morant. Last month, it was reported that the team had discussed a potential trade internally and believed their strong infrastructure could turn his career around.
The franchise is looking for long-term anchors. If they can get him straightened out and keep him healthy, Morant still has huge potential. Furthermore, Miami has the trade assets that would interest Memphis.
- Ja Morant stats: 19.0 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 7.6 APG, 1.0 SPG
Toronto Raptors
This has been a big bounce-back year for the Toronto Raptors, and they are a top-four team in the East. Interestingly enough, their return to relevance is due to a defense giving up just 111.9 points a night. However, they are a bottom-10 group on the other side of the ball.
A Ja Morant trade certainly comes with risks. However, he could give them the elite go-to scorer they lack. Furthermore, a “Big 3” of Morant, Scottie Barnes, and Brandon Ingram could be a big problem for the rest of the conference.
Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls have been a decent team in the hunt for a play-in spot this season. While they have a solid building block in Josh Giddey, he isn’t a serious No. 1 option and would benefit greatly by being the sidekick to a player with superstar potential, such as Morant. The combo could turn Chicago into a top-six team in the second half.
While the Bulls don’t have young players to send back on long-term deals, they have a boatload of expiring contracts. That will also interest the Grizzlies if they begin to rebuild.
- Ja Morant contract: Five years, $197.2 million
Minnesota Timberwolves
There have been rumblings for the last month that the Minnesota Timberwolves are looking to land an All-Star-level guard to pair with young superstar Ja Morant. A recent report suggested a Morant trade doesn’t interest them, but that could change if no better options materialize on the trade block.
A Morant and Edwards combo could be a disaster. But it could also be amazing. It may be worth a try since Minny is one big piece away from being a real threat to the Thunder this spring.
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings have been an absolute disaster this season, and they are looking to move contracts and start fresh. One way they could do that is in a deal that would send Zach LaVine to Memphis. LaVine would give the Grizzlies the chance to stay competitive if he could be a better fit than Morant is in their offense.
For the Kings, they get a younger player with a greater long-term potential, albeit with similar injury issues and more baggage.
Detroit Pistons
The Detroit Pistons have come a long way over the last couple of years. They went from being one of the worst teams in the game to a talented young group on the rise. However, while they own the best record in the conference, there are many who feel they are one big piece away from overcoming the Knicks and Celtics in the playoffs. Morant could be that piece to make them a title contender.
A deal including Tobias Harris’ expiring contract, former first-round picks Jaden Ivey, and a draft pick will be enough to bring the two-time All-Star to Motown.
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