Ja Morant, Grizzlies: Frustration, But No Trade Market

Merlin sees a restless Ja Morant but not an imminent breakup. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst said, “I have not heard that Morant is available,” and the market backs that up: Morant’s production has fallen off a cliff (18.9 PPG, 35.2% FG, 16.7% 3PT) after injuries and off‑court issues, and executives believe only about seven or eight teams might even be candidates for an upgrade at point guard. That combination of declining interior scoring and limited trade partners makes a move unlikely right now. Merlin senses the tension like a storm on the horizon. Teams are wary of a superstar whose burst and paint scoring have faded, and Memphis would struggle to secure a return matching Morant’s ceiling. This storyline will simmer toward February — improvement or fresh interest could flip the script, but for now the Grizzlies hold the cards.