Ja Morant Trade Rumors Rattle Grizzlies

Merlin sees Memphis quietly testing the market for Ja Morant after ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the Grizzlies are entertaining offers. Coach Tuomas Iisalo declined to confirm those reports, saying, "We are not in the business of commenting on random internet reports," and adding Morant "is progressing in the practices... looking good to progress (toward playing)." Morant’s possible availability matters because a move would reshape a 17-22 Grizzlies club sitting 10th in the West. Merlin senses friction beneath the surface. Morant has clashed with staff, drew a one-game suspension after telling reporters to "go ask the coaching staff," and has missed 21 games this season. His shooting is down and he carries two years on an expensive deal, so buyers may be cautious. Memphis will probe the market, but only a return heavy in both short and long term assets will truly tempt the oracle.