Ja Morant’s future in Memphis is increasingly uncertain. Veteran NBA writer Joe Vardon of The Athletic reported that the April 12, 2026 regular-season finale “could be” the last time the two-time All-Star appears on the Grizzlies’ roster, noting that a trade this summer is a realistic scenario.
Morant, 26, has been sidelined since Jan. 21, limiting him to 20 appearances in the 2025-26 campaign. During that stretch he averaged 19.5 points and 8.1 assists while shooting 41 percent from the floor and 23.5 percent beyond the arc.
Market concerns at the deadline
League executives told Vardon that interest in Morant was muted at February’s trade deadline, with some clubs wary of both his lucrative contract and previous off-court issues. Even so, the Miami Heat, Sacramento Kings and Milwaukee Bucks were mentioned as teams that at least explored the possibility of acquiring the point guard.
Signs of possible friction
Speculation about Morant’s status grew after he did not take part in a recent Fan Appreciation Night jersey giveaway. Team sources later suggested the absence stemmed from a misunderstanding, yet multiple reports described the guard as frustrated with his current situation. Separately, a Memphis-area property linked to Morant was listed for sale, further fueling rumors of a split.
Morant has publicly expressed loyalty to the Grizzlies, while the organization enters a pivotal offseason following a disappointing year. Whether Memphis opts for a roster reset or a major shakeup remains to be determined, but league observers widely expect the front office to explore significant moves in the coming months.
Source: Hoops Wire
