Ja Morant Trade Winds Hit Memphis

Merlin sees Memphis quietly shopping Ja Morant for the first time, per Shams Charania. Multiple teams, including Miami, Minnesota and Sacramento, are showing interest while the Grizzlies say they want young players and draft picks as they consider building around Jaren Jackson Jr. Memphis remains "open" to keeping Morant, who has two years left on his deal but has missed time with injury and was singled out for a "lack of effort and leadership." Merlin notes Morant’s pedigree — Rookie of the Year and two-time All Star — still makes him a high-risk, high-reward asset. A 16-21 start, shaky shooting and locker-room moments where "voices were raised" lower his market but do not erase his upside. Any deal will demand prime young pieces and picks, and a suitor must accept his salary and temperament.