Ja Morant Trade Rumors: Grizzlies Star's Future in Question

Ja Morant's trade status is uncertain as the Memphis Grizzlies prepare for the 2026 NBA Draft. The team is expected to be one of the most active teams in the draft, with three picks in the top 35.

What happened?

The biggest domino of the NBA offseason has fallen. Giannis Antetokounmpo was traded to the Miami Heat, and the return package includes Tyler Herro, Kel'el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakucionis, and several first-round picks. This trade likely spells more trades across the league, and it could complicate things for the Grizzlies.

Why it matters for Ja Morant

Miami was long viewed as a potential trade suitor for Memphis star Ja Morant, but with the Heat sending several players and picks to Milwaukee, it's safe to cross them off the list of Morant trade partners. The same could be said for the Minnesota Timberwolves, who will sign guard Ayo Dosunmu to a lucrative extension after trading All-Star Julius Randle to the Brooklyn Nets.

What comes next?

The Grizzlies are expected to be one of the most active teams in the draft, and they have three picks in the top 35. They will likely be looking to make a splash with one of their picks, and Ja Morant's trade status will be a major factor in their decision-making.

The New Orleans Pelicans have explored their trade option to acquire star guard Ja Morant, according to Evan Sidery. Potential trade compensation included Jordan Poole and Jordan Hawkins. Trade value for Morant is still low considering injury history and salary cap hit.

Three possible destinations for Ja Morant

Morant has two years and $87 million left on his contract. The Grizzlies signed Morant to a five-year, $197 million extension in 2022. The deal made him the highest-paid player in franchise history.

The Grizzlies will likely be looking to trade Morant to a team that can offer them a better return on investment. With Morant's injury history and salary cap hit, his trade value is still low. However, the Grizzlies may be willing to take a chance on a team that can offer them a better deal.

The 2026 NBA Draft will be held on June 23-24, and the Grizzlies are expected to be one of the most active teams. They have three picks in the top 35, and they will likely be looking to make a splash with one of their picks. Ja Morant's trade status will be a major factor in their decision-making.

Tarik Biberovic, a 25-year-old player in the Turkish Basketball Super League, has expressed interest from multiple teams. The Grizzlies drafted Biberovic in the second round in 2023.

Darryn Peterson, a player who has been linked to the Grizzlies, has reportedly met with the Utah Jazz. Peterson was previously expected to meet only with the Washington Wizards.

USA Today's latest mock draft has the Grizzlies taking Boozer with their third pick.