Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant is at the center of trade rumors following a clash with head coach Tuomas Iisalo, which led to Morant’s suspension for the game against the Toronto Raptors. The incident reportedly occurred after a postgame meeting following a 117–112 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.
In that matchup, Morant struggled, scoring eight points on 3-of-14 shooting, including 0-for-6 from three-point range, and visibly left the bench during a timeout. Despite these struggles, he remains a high-profile player, averaging 20.1 points, 7.9 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, though his shooting efficiency sits at 38.3% from the field.
NBC Sports reports that the current trade market for Morant is limited, with any offers expected to be lowball. League sources indicated that teams would likely view deals involving Morant as attempts to get a bargain rather than a full-value exchange.
The Sacramento Kings and Minnesota Timberwolves are reportedly monitoring Morant’s situation, though the Kings have not yet formally engaged Memphis in trade talks. Interest from Houston appears unlikely, despite the Rockets’ need for a primary playmaker alongside Amen Thompson and Kevin Durant.
Memphis faces a complex situation, balancing Morant’s value as a marquee player in a smaller market with ongoing team management priorities. Tim Bontemps of ESPN noted the business considerations are significant, making any potential trade a challenging proposition for the Grizzlies.
The team’s focus has shifted toward Jaren Jackson Jr., who recently signed a contract extension, while Morant has not yet received similar long-term discussions. This move has fueled speculation about Morant’s role and future with the franchise.
NBA insiders suggest that a potential return for Morant could resemble the 2023 Kyrie Irving trade from Brooklyn to Dallas, which involved Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a 2029 unprotected first-round pick, and two second-round selections. However, uncertainty about Morant’s long-term fit could limit interest from elite-level contenders.
