Ja Morant used his first game back from injury to reinforce where he wants to spend his future. Returning from a six-game absence caused by a right calf strain, the All-Star guard recorded 24 points and 13 assists in just 28 minutes as the Memphis Grizzlies beat the Orlando Magic 126-109 on Sunday in London.
According to the Memphis Commercial Appeal’s Damichael Cole, Morant became the first player in franchise history to register at least 20 points and 10 assists in a single half. The performance arrived at a moment when his name has circulated in trade rumors, but the 24-year-old made his stance clear afterward.
“I’m a very loyal guy,” Morant told Marc Stein of The Stein Line. “I’ve got a Grizzlies logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be.”
Front-office considerations
Stein reported that Memphis has listened to inquiries about Morant partially because extended stretches like Sunday’s have been rare. The guard has not appeared in seven consecutive games since the 2022-23 season, and both his efficiency and rim pressure have dipped during that span.
Impact of the overseas trip
Despite injury concerns, Stein noted that Morant was central to the positive atmosphere surrounding the club during its time abroad, underscoring the leadership Memphis still values.
Market temperature
Interest from the Miami Heat is described as lukewarm, with the organization preferring to preserve assets for a potential pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo if the two-time MVP ever becomes available, Stein added.
Morant’s on-court statement in London highlighted his importance to Memphis, but any long-term resolution remains pending.
Source: Hoops Wire
