Memphis, Tenn. — The Memphis Grizzlies anticipate heightened trade discussions involving guard Ja Morant once he is back on the court, a possibility as soon as Sunday when the club meets the Orlando Magic in Berlin.
Grizzlies Monitor Morant’s Market
Head coach Tuomas Iisalo confirmed Morant completed a full practice Friday after missing action since Jan. 2 with a right calf strain. “There’s a good chance he plays,” Iisalo told the Associated Press, adding that the team will evaluate how Morant’s body responds overnight.
Morant, limited to 18 games this season due to injuries and a one-game suspension in early November, is averaging 19.0 points and 7.6 assists in 28.3 minutes. His shooting numbers have dipped to a career-low 40.1 percent from the field and 20.8 percent from beyond the arc.
Despite Iisalo stressing a “very good working relationship,” league chatter continues. The Timberwolves, Kings, Heat, Bucks, Raptors, Nets and Mavericks have been linked to the two-time All-Star, though no negotiations are considered advanced. Morant is in the third season of a five-year, $197.2 million contract, with two years remaining after 2023-24.
Brooks Resets Suns Culture
In Phoenix, forward Dillon Brooks has drawn praise for transforming the Suns’ locker-room mindset following his offseason departure from Memphis. Brooks told ESPN he felt “written off” after last summer but remained motivated: “I love this game, and I play it because I really love it.”
The Suns, now 24-17, have already eclipsed last season’s pace (36-46). “He’s in the gym more than anybody I know,” guard Collin Gillespie said, noting Brooks’s demanding approach. Team owner Mat Ishbia added, “He’s exactly the type of player we want to be. He’s been even better than expected.”
Achiuwa Comfortable at Power Forward
Precious Achiuwa told the New York Post he feels at home playing power forward for the Sacramento Kings. “This is how I’ve always played,” the 24-year-old said, explaining that the position offers greater offensive flow and personal freedom. Sacramento hopes the comfort leads to consistent production as the schedule intensifies.
Source: Hoops Wire
