The NBA trade deadline has come and gone, and Ja Morant is still on the Memphis Grizzlies, but will he be traded this summer?
Ja Morant was one of the biggest names on the market at the NBA trade deadline, but after the Memphis Grizzlies traded away his running mate Jaren Jackson Jr., Morant still find himself in Memphis.
The Grizzlies sent JJJ to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Walter Clayton Jr. and three first round picks. Jackson Jr. follows Desmond Bane out the door after the former was traded to the Magic for four 1st round picks.
With both players moving on, it looked clear that Morant would be the next domino to fall, signifying the clear intent to begin rebuilding in Memphis.
Will Ja Morant still be traded?
The short answer to this question is probably.
The Grizzlies are clearly moving in a new long term direction with their team by acquiring seven first round picks for two of their players, and its unlikely that Ja Morant fits that timeline.
Morant was one of the most electric guards in the game, but after dealing with injuries and off-court issues, the 26-year-old's trade value has dropped significantly. It's clear that he still has talent, but the Grizzlies may not get the return that they would want for the face of their franchise.
Reports came out that the Grizzlies were asking for young players and multiple draft picks in a deal for Morant, but no teams were willing to give that up for such an inconsistent player.
Memphis could receive better offers this summer, or they could realize that he is not valued as high around the league as the front office expected.
Either way, it is likely that Morant gets dealt in the offseason for more future assets or players that Memphis could then flip in the future.
There is a very slim chance that he stays in Memphis long term unless his game returns to what it was in the first few years of his career.
Memphis would also need to think that Morant is a good fit next to their 2025 1st round pick, Cedric Coward.
What teams could trade for Ja Morant?
The first team that comes to mind is the Miami Heat. The Heat were interested in Morant at the deadline but the price tag was too high for them to take the chance.
Other teams that could look to reignite Morant next season include the Los Angeles Lakers, Brooklyn Nets, Toronto Raptors, and Chicago Bulls.
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