TITLE: Morant Emerges as Prime Trade Target; Raptors, Kings Linked as Multiple Teams Explore Mid-Season Moves
SLUG: morant-trade-buzz-raptors-kings-knicks-hawks-deadline
CONTENT:
Memphis guard Ja Morant has become the focal point of league-wide trade discussions after signals that the Grizzlies are willing to entertain offers for the two-time All-Star, according to Marc Stein’s latest newsletter.
Raptors Face “Win-Now” Pressure
Executives around the NBA believe the Raptors could make a serious run at Morant. Toronto has already been linked to high-profile targets such as Trae Young, Anthony Davis, and Domantas Sabonis, fueling speculation that internal pressure to contend immediately is driving front-office decision-making.
Kings Could Enter the Race
Despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise, Stein hears the Kings might engage Memphis if a package centered on DeMar DeRozan, 2024 No. 13 pick Devin Carter, and draft compensation is acceptable. Carter is averaging 8.4 minutes this season and has struggled to secure a steady role.
Morant, limited to 18 games by various injuries, is averaging 19.0 points and 7.6 assists while shooting .401/.208/.900.
Wizards Weigh Young Extension
Following Washington’s acquisition of Trae Young, a key question is whether the Wizards will offer an extension. Stein reports “noise” pointing toward a two-year deal. The organization may limit Young’s minutes the rest of the season, citing last year’s Brandon Ingram precedent in Toronto, where Ingram did not play post-deadline before signing a new contract in the offseason.
Knicks Shop Yabusele, Dadiet
The Knicks, winners of the inaugural NBA Cup but 1-5 since, are open to moving forward Guerschon Yabusele and second-year wing Pacome Dadiet to tweak the back end of the roster. Yabusele has bounced in and out of coach Mike Brown’s rotation, while Dadiet, the No. 25 pick in 2024, has logged just 44 minutes over 14 appearances.
Hawks, Pacers, Celtics Eye Gafford
The Hawks, already linked to Davis, also have interest in Mavericks center Daniel Gafford. A deal for the 27-year-old would allow Atlanta to keep rookie Zaccharie Risacher out of negotiations. Stein adds that the Pacers and Celtics are monitoring Gafford as well.
Dinwiddie’s Timeline Uncertain
Veteran guard Spencer Dinwiddie is now free to sign with an NBA team after departing Bayern Munich, but league sources told Stein the 30-year-old may need additional time to address personal matters before committing to a club.
Mavericks Delay Exum Decision
Dallas is holding off on waiving Dante Exum to convert two-way guard Ryan Nembhard. The Mavericks prefer to keep Exum’s $3.3 million salary available for possible trades, a stance that could postpone two-way conversions for Nembhard, Spencer Jones (Nuggets), Daniss Jenkins (Pistons), and Pat Spencer (Warriors) until after the trade deadline.
Source: Hoops Rumors
