Timberwolves gauge Grizzlies’ openness to possible Ja Morant trade
timberwolves-check-in-on-ja-morant
Minnesota Timberwolves officials have made preliminary contact with the Memphis Grizzlies to inquire about the future availability of guard Ja Morant, according to Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic during an appearance on SiriusXM NBA Radio.
Krawczynski characterized the outreach as merely “testing the waters,” noting that Minnesota could revisit the idea more seriously if its point-guard situation remains unresolved by December.
Background on Morant–Grizzlies tension
The light exploratory call comes less than two weeks after Morant exchanged words with the Grizzlies’ coaching staff during a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo reportedly questioned Morant’s focus and effort, leading to a one-game suspension. Although Morant has since rejoined the lineup, league observers say the underlying friction has not been fully addressed.
Multiple league sources maintain that Memphis is not actively shopping the two-time All-Star and hopes to mend the relationship rather than move him.
Why Minnesota is monitoring the situation
The Timberwolves enter the season with a clear need at lead guard. Veteran Mike Conley, 38, is serving primarily in a reserve role and averaging 6.5 points and 3.9 assists, while Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle have shouldered most of the team’s offensive creation.
Any pursuit of Morant would require careful salary matching. Minnesota is operating at the NBA’s first tax apron and cannot take back more money than it sends out. Morant is earning $39.5 million this season.
No further discussions between the teams have been reported.
Source: Hoops Wire
