Ja Morant Eyes Fresh Start Amid Grizzlies Trade Talks

Merlin sees Memphis and Ja Morant quietly moving toward separation. The Grizzlies are at least willing to "explore" trades and Morant is reportedly "quietly" open, a plan "believed to be a mutually agreed-upon path forward." Teams would likely pay with draft picks and youth, but the market is soft after Trae Young’s recent trade. Morant carries two guaranteed seasons at $42.2 million and $44.9 million, has missed 20-plus games in five straight seasons, and is posting career-low shooting numbers this year. Merlin senses the tug of risk and reward. Memphis can demand assets, yet buyers will discount Morant for availability and falling efficiency. A fresh system could reinvigorate him, but the return will probably be smaller than his talent suggests unless a team bets on a rebound.