Jason Burgos
A new report offers up the potential price tag for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento Kings in a Ja Morant trade, and it’s very realistic.
During a frustrating loss last week, Morant seemed to quit on several plays. When asked about his energy level by a Memphis reporter after the game, the face of the franchise 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.
The deteriorating situation has created a league-wide narrative that the Grizz will soon be forced to come to terms with the idea of moving on from their most popular player.
- Ja Morant stats: 20.4 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 7.1 SPG, 1.0 SPG, 14% 3PT
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? On Thursday, a new report shed some light on what the cost could be. “One team executive pointed to the 2023 trade that sent Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets to the Dallas Mavericks,” ESPN reported. “In that deal, the Nets received Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, a 2029 unprotected first-round pick, and two second-rounders.”
Grizzlies not trading Ja Morant anytime soon
That isn’t a bad cost at all for such a young and talented player under team control for two more seasons. However, ESPN notes that the future Hall of Famer was 31 and on an expiring contract. Plus, the Timberwolves don’t have a tradeable first-rounder for the next seven years.
Minnesota can, of course, acquire a first-rounder for a potential trade package. And if they do, that may be a clear sign they are gearing up for a deal. Either way, a swap to get a superstar talent like Ja Morant is very possible for the Timberwolves or Kings at some point this season.
- Ja Morant contract: Five years, $197.2 million
However, they may have to wait a while longer. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Memphis is still evaluating its roster and has no intention of making a trade anytime soon. “Nobody’s doing seismic, monumental things before 20, 25 games have been played,” a player agent told Stein.
