Grizzlies Signal Strategic Pivot by Opening Trade Talks for Star Ja Morant

2026-01-10 general

Memphis, Friday, 9 January 2026.
For the first time, Memphis is entertaining offers for Ja Morant ahead of the February deadline, signaling a major roster reconstruction focused on acquiring draft capital and young assets.

Market Evaluation and Strategic Pivot

The Memphis Grizzlies have initiated a significant strategic pivot by formally entertaining trade offers for franchise cornerstone Ja Morant [1][4]. With the February 5 trade deadline approaching, the organization is reportedly prioritizing packages centered on draft capital and young talent [1][2]. This development marks the first time in Morant’s tenure that the franchise has signaled a willingness to move on from the second overall pick of the 2019 draft [1]. While the team remains “open” to retaining him, they are simultaneously exploring options to build around defensive anchor Jaren Jackson Jr. [1].

Financial Implications and Contract Status

Financial considerations appear to be a driving force behind this potential restructuring. Morant, currently 26 years old, is earning $39.4 million for the 2025-26 season [1][3]. He remains under contract through the 2027-28 campaign, with approximately $87.1 million owed over the final two years [1]. Crucially, the point guard becomes eligible for a three-year, $178 million extension in the summer of 2026 [3]. Given the team’s mediocre performance—sitting 10th in the Western Conference with a 16-21 record [1]—management seems to be critically assessing the long-term value of this financial commitment.

Potential Suitors and Market Value

Several franchises have been identified as potential landing spots, including the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Sacramento Kings [1]. However, constructing a deal may prove complex. The Miami Heat, for instance, possess limited draft assets, holding only one tradeable first-round pick following their 2024 trade for Terry Rozier [7]. Furthermore, league executives have expressed skepticism regarding the trade value of “small” point guards in the modern NBA, noting that defensive limitations can offset offensive contributions [5]. Despite these concerns, some teams may still view the two-time All-Star as a transformative asset capable of regaining his elite form in a new environment [1].

Performance Declines and Internal Friction

Morant’s availability coincides with a turbulent season marked by injury and inefficiency. He has appeared in only 18 of the team’s first 37 games, recently sidelined by a calf strain that ruled him out of the January 9 contest against Oklahoma City [1][3]. When active, his efficiency has plummeted; while averaging 19.0 points and 7.6 assists, he is shooting a career-low 40.1 percent from the field and just 20.8 percent from three-point range [1]. Internal tensions have also surfaced; on November 1, 2025, the team suspended Morant for one game following a verbal altercation with head coach Tuomas Iisalo regarding the player’s effort and leadership [1][2].

Future Roster Construction

Should a trade materialize, Memphis appears well-positioned to pivot toward a youth-centric rebuild. The front office is reportedly keen on developing a promising young core, highlighted by 2025 first-round pick Cendric Coward, who is averaging 13.7 points per game [3]. Additionally, second-year contributors Zach Edey, Jaylen Wells, and Cam Spencer are all averaging over 12 points per game [3], providing a solid foundation for the franchise’s post-Morant era.

Sources

Sports Business NBA