Ja Morant Addresses Trade Speculation as Grizzlies Weigh Options

Ja Morant delivered brief and measured responses Wednesday as questions surrounding his future with the Memphis Grizzlies intensified, acknowledging ongoing trade speculation while emphasizing that the situation remains out of his control.

Morant traveled with the Grizzlies on their European trip but was ruled out of Thursday’s game against the Orlando Magic in Berlin because of a right calf contusion that has sidelined him since Jan. 2. He said earlier in the day that he hoped to play in one of the two matchups against Orlando before the team made the final decision.

The latest injury setback adds to a disrupted season for Morant, who has appeared in just 18 games. His absence has spanned five consecutive contests, limiting continuity for a Memphis roster navigating a transition year under head coach Tuomas Iisalo.

During Wednesday’s practice, Morant was observed in an animated exchange with teammate Vince Williams Jr., though the team did not indicate any lingering issue stemming from the interaction. The Grizzlies declined to comment further as speculation around the franchise’s long term direction continues to build.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Memphis has begun entertaining trade offers for Morant for the first time during his tenure with the organization. League sources indicate multiple teams have expressed interest, with rival executives believing the Grizzlies would prioritize draft capital and young players in any potential deal. While no move is imminent, the development signals a significant shift in how the franchise is evaluating its roster core.

Morant’s on court availability has been limited not only by injuries but also by a one game suspension earlier this season following a postgame exchange with Iisalo in November. The interruptions have prevented Memphis from fully assessing its competitive ceiling with Morant on the floor as the Western Conference landscape continues to evolve.

The 26 year old guard remains under contract through the 2027 28 season and is eligible to sign an extension worth up to $178 million over three years this summer. That financial commitment, combined with his All NBA caliber upside, adds complexity to any trade discussion and raises critical questions about timing and organizational direction.

For now, Morant’s immediate outlook hinges on his recovery timeline. Memphis has not provided a firm return date, but the team continues to evaluate his status day to day. The Grizzlies are expected to revisit internal discussions after their European slate as they weigh short term competitiveness against long term flexibility.

What happens next could shape the franchise for years. Whether Memphis ultimately commits to Morant as its centerpiece or leverages his value in a blockbuster move, the coming weeks represent a pivotal chapter in the Grizzlies’ trajectory.