Things are getting ugly between the Memphis Grizzlies and top star Ja Morant. The two-time All-Star and the franchise have overcome serious issues in the past related to his love for firearms and confrontations off the court. But the current drama feels different.
During a frustrating loss late last week, Morant seemed to quiet quit on several plays. When asked about his energy level by a Memphis reporter, he responded, “Go ask the coaching staff why.” It was one of several times where he suggested asking the staff about why they lost, and his unhappiness. It has created a league-wide narrative that the Grizz may be more open than ever to moving on from their most popular player.
Despite the questions about the character of the two-time All-Star, a 26-year-old with superstar talent will intrigue many teams around the league. According to The Athletic’s NBA insider Sam Amick, two interested teams have already emerged: The Minnesota Timberwolves and the Sacramento Kings.
But what would a trade for the young star look like for either team? We look to answer that possibility.
- Ja Morant stats: 20.4 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 7.1 SPG, 1.0 SPG, 14% 3PT
What would a Ja Morant trade cost the Timberwolves and Kings?
Due to his previous suspension, his new drama with Memphis head coach Tuomas Iisalo, and issues staying healthy, Morant’s trade value has fallen a lot. Which means it won’t require a huge sum of first-round draft picks to get him in a deal.
In a potential trade for the gifted guard, the Kings offering six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan, veteran point guard Dennis Schroder, and their first-round pick in 2027 could be a good starting point to complete a trade in the next few months. In the deal, Memphis gets a good scorer and better locker room personality in DeRozan, a rock-solid lead guard replacement with Schroder, and a nice draft asset.
- Ja Morant contract: Five years, $197.2 million
The Timberwolves pairing Morant with young superstar Anthony Edwards could create a scary backcourt combination. That is why a trade package of fast-rising forward Jaden McDaniels, three-point ace Donte DiVincenzo, veteran Mike Conley, and first-round picks in 2028 and 2030 would be the starting point to make a trade possible.
Conley comes off the books after this season, Divincenzo is a good impact player at an affordable rate, and McDaniels and Jaren Jackson could be a dynamic front-court duo for years to come. Plus, the Kings get a pair of first-rounders.
