Ja Morant Could Accept Bench Role for Blazers Next Season

Ja Morant could accept a bench role for the Portland Trail Blazers next season, according to new head coach Micah Nori. The 24-year-old guard, acquired in a stunning trade, may shift to a sixth-man position to maximize the team’s winning chances.

Nori expressed confidence in Morant’s flexibility during an interview on SiriusXM NBA Radio. He believes the former All-NBA guard will prioritize winning over starting. *“I take people at their word,”* Nori said. *“If you say something, and it comes to that point, I’ll just remind you, ‘Hey, you said you didn’t care.’ But more importantly, I really believe guys like Ja, Dame, and Jrue just want to win.”*

Morant has started 325 of his 327 NBA games. A move to the bench would mark a significant shift. However, Nori emphasized that minutes-not starting spots-matter most. *“As long as you’re getting your minutes, it’s manageable,”* he added.

The Blazers now boast one of the NBA’s deepest guard rotations. Alongside Morant, Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday form a veteran trio. Young talents Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson add to the logjam.

Morant’s willingness to adapt could redefine his role. After three injury-plagued seasons in Memphis, he brings explosive athleticism and playmaking. If he thrives off the bench, he could become one of the league’s highest-profile sixth men.

Nori’s comments reflect a league-wide trend: closing lineups matter more than starting ones. Teams now prioritize fresh playmakers for all 48 minutes.

The Blazers’ biggest challenge? Finding enough minutes for everyone. Lillard remains the franchise icon, while Holiday excels defensively. Sharpe and Henderson represent the future.

If Morant truly embraces any role, Portland’s biggest concern-internal chemistry-could vanish. The season will test whether his talent outweighs his past struggles.