Ja Morant’s Future with Grizzlies in Question
Issues with coaches have seemingly led to tension among teammates.
Now, it looks like Ja Morant’s time with the Grizzlies might be coming to an end.
Morant, Memphis’ standout, reportedly felt “estranged” from his fellow players after being suspended for one game earlier this season. Word has it that he informed teammates and coaches around the league he no longer wants to represent the franchise.
Following this, ESPN reported on Friday that Memphis is open to trade offers for the talented guard.
Morant’s journey with the Grizzlies has been quite a ride—some accomplishments on the court but also plenty of off-court drama. Notably, he’s missed opportunities to advance beyond the conference semifinals and faced two suspensions due to appearing with a weapon in a social media video.
His recent clash with the organization seems to have pushed things over the edge.
At 26, he received a suspension in November for “conduct detrimental to the team” after openly critiquing Memphis’ new coaching staff, led by Tuomas Isalo, following a loss to the Lakers.
When asked about the 117-112 defeat, Morant was quick to deflect, saying, “Ask the coaching staff.” He added, “Honestly, according to them, they probably shouldn’t play me. That’s basically the message.”
Isalo took exception to Morant’s attitude and effort after that game. Reports suggest that Morant reacted in an “inappropriate and dismissive manner.”
ESPN mentioned that Morant might now be included in trade discussions. His feelings of isolation seem to have intensified after his teammates distanced themselves during his suspension period.
In fact, Morant conveyed to league officials that he wanted out of Memphis.
If the Grizzlies can find a trading partner, this could very well become a reality. Yet, his trade value is likely to come under scrutiny. His current season averages—a mere 19.0 points per game, along with a career-worst 40.1% shooting percentage and a 20.8% rate from three-point range—aren’t exactly impressive.
He’s under contract for $42.2 million this season and $44.9 million in the following one.
Interestingly, the NBA recently saw a trade involving a similar player, Trae Young. The Hawks’ fortunes dipped after a strong start, and they ended with a couple of players but no premium assets in return.
