Memphis’s Zach Kleiman has outright dismissed rumors of trading Ja Morant, labeling them “fantasy” and affirming Morant remains the franchise cornerstone . Despite chatter from The Ringer’s Howard Beck, who cited an unnamed executive suggesting to “keep an eye” on Morant if Memphis falls early in the playoffs , the front office has been unwavering: Morant is not on the market.
Yet speculation intensified after the firing of head coach Taylor Jenkins before the playoffs. Analysts and insiders noted that Memphis’s shift to a motion-heavy system—less suited to Morant’s strengths in pick‑and‑roll and transition—could be a sign the team is preparing for a future that doesn’t revolve around him . With Morant appearing publicly frustrated about reduced offensive control and inconsistent usage, questions have risen about synergy between player, coach, and front office .
Nevertheless, Morant remains under contract through 2028, and the Grizzlies have structured their payroll to retain the core trio: Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Desmond Bane . Financially and strategically, Memphis is positioned to stay committed to its young nucleus.
In short: the talk of a Ja trade stems from typical NBA contingency planning—sparked by trades like that of Doncic—but for now, the Grizzlies’ leadership remains resolute. Whether Morant’s fit improves under a new coach or he reignites offensive confidence in the postseason may determine if this storyline resurfaces in 2025‑26.
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