TITLE: Grizzlies reportedly weighing Ja Morant trade, excluding Pelicans
SLUG: grizzlies-weighing-ja-morant-trade-excluding-pelicans
CONTENT:
The Memphis Grizzlies are listening to offers for franchise guard Ja Morant but have not entered discussions with the New Orleans Pelicans, according to NBA reporter Marc Stein.
League sources told Hoops Wire that both Morant and the Grizzlies are open to a separation. Executives around the league believe Memphis is prioritizing draft picks and young talent in any potential deal. Morant, who does not possess a no-trade clause, is owed $39.4 million this season.
Internally, tensions have surfaced over head coach Tuomas Iisalo’s rotation strategy. Sources said Morant is frustrated with the short stints and wholesale substitutions that have disrupted his on-court rhythm.
The 24-year-old has appeared in only 20 games, averaging 19.5 points, 8.1 assists and 3.3 rebounds while experiencing a decline in shooting efficiency. He is currently sidelined by a sprained UCL in his left elbow and is expected to miss about three weeks.
Rival clubs linked to Morant include Milwaukee, Toronto, Sacramento and Miami. Memphis sits 11th in the Western Conference, while New Orleans owns the league’s worst record. The NBA trade deadline is Feb. 5.
Source: Hoops Wire
