The Memphis Grizzlies have opened the 2025-26 campaign 3-6 and already suspended star guard Ja Morant for one game because of conduct detrimental to the team.
Front office not considering major moves yet
League sources told The Stein Line that although rival clubs are monitoring Morant’s situation, there is no sign Memphis is ready to entertain trade talks. “Nobody’s doing seismic, monumental things before 20 or 25 games have been played,” one agent said, noting the organization is still evaluating a roster that underwent significant change after trading Desmond Bane for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and four first-round picks during the offseason.
Team leadership wants to see how new head coach Tuomas Iisalo performs with a healthier group before deciding on any adjustments. Brandon Clarke, Zach Edey, Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr. have yet to play this season.
Jackson searching for offensive rhythm
Jaren Jackson Jr. scored nine points on six shots in Wednesday’s loss to Houston, continuing a slow offensive start that has produced his fewest field-goal attempts since his rookie year, according to the Memphis Commercial Appeal. Teammate Vince Williams Jr. said Jackson has been “over-passive,” and Morant told Iisalo spacing is partly to blame. “It’s not enough space,” Morant said. “We got to make more shots and open up the floor for him.” Jackson expressed confidence he will regain form: “You just got to be aggressive… in attack mode.”
Cedric Coward impresses off the bench
Rookie forward Cedric Coward, drafted 11th after Memphis packaged two of the Bane deal picks—including No. 16, later used on Yang Hansen—is third on the club in scoring, rebounds and steals and ranks second in made threes. Iisalo, however, cautioned that a starting role is not imminent. “A lot of times it doesn’t make sense to have all of your best on-ball creators in the same lineup,” he said, adding that Coward’s minutes are rising because of his “overall impact.”
Locker-room mood shifts amid losses
Yahoo! Sports reported “palpable bad vibes” around a team once known for an energetic, confident style. Iisalo acknowledged the challenge: “It’s very hard to build confidence if you’re consistently losing.” A new offensive approach has reduced Morant’s rim attempts and increased perimeter shots, and players have noticed more stagnation. “Any little bit of hesitation in professional sports will get you a loss,” Jackson said.
The Grizzlies resume play Friday seeking to halt a three-game skid and recapture the edge that fueled recent postseason runs.
Source: Hoops Rumors
