The Memphis Grizzlies have yet to make Ja Morant available for a potential midseason trade, but league sources told ESPN’s Tim Bontemps last week that Memphis is expected to explore the trade market.
Kings Could Push For Ja Morant
The Sacramento Kings haven’t been the same in their backcourt since trading De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs last season. Morant might not be the ideal replacement — given his history of injuries and suspensions — but the two-time All-Star averages over 20 points per game when available.
Through 12 appearances (all starts) this season, Morant is averaging 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, 7.6 assists, 1.0 steals, and a career-low 28.8 minutes per contest. He’s also shooting only 35.9% from the field and 16.7% from deep.
Can Morant turn his NBA career around with a new team?
Morant, 26, told reporters earlier this month that he wasn’t feeling the same joy he usually does playing basketball after serving a one-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team.
Sacramento Inquired About Morant
Sacramento is reportedly “monitoring” Morant’s situation, per The Athletic’s Sam Amick.
If the Kings are serious about acquiring Morant, the Grizzlies would likely ask for Malik Monk, Dennis Schroder, Devin Carter, and multiple first-round picks in return.
Such a trade would have to wait until Dec. 15 due to a trade restriction on Schroder.
The trade would create a starting lineup of Morant, Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis, with a bench unit of Russell Westbrook, Keon Ellis, Nique Clifford, Precious Achiuwa, and Drew Eubanks.
Morant’s contract, however, could complicate any trade.
Per Spotrac, Morant is earning $39.5 million this season and is in the third year of a five-year, $197.2 million contract. He’s slated to earn $42.16 million next season and as much as $44.88 million in 2027-28.
His deal also includes a 15% trade bonus.
Timberwolves Seek To Avoid Second Apron
The Minnesota Timberwolves could end up trading for Morant, but tax apron restrictions would make it difficult for Minnesota to acquire the seven-year veteran.
Appearing on SiriusXM Radio on Nov. 9, The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski said the Timberwolves “checked in” with the Grizzlies about a potential Morant trade.
Krawczynski described the conversation as exploratory, stating Minnesota is “testing the waters a little bit” to see if a deal could be reached before this season’s trade deadline.
For a trade to work, the Wolves would have to send Mike Conley back to Memphis, where he began his career in 2007, and include a larger contract from a player like Jaden McDaniels or Naz Reid.
It is highly unlikely that Minnesota would include Rudy Gobert in a deal.
The Wolves should make an effort to acquire the Murray State product to strengthen their backcourt, as Minnesota doesn’t have a primary ball-handler outside of Conley and Rob Dillingham.
Minnesota can offer the Grizzlies one or both of its first-round picks (2026, 2028).
