If the Grizzlies do move Ja Morant, the early outline of what they want back is coming into focus.
On Sirius XM’s Deals and Dunks, longtime NBA insider Marc Stein said Memphis is seeking a first-round pick and a young player in return. That is the baseline. Whether anyone meets it is another matter.
Morant is still only 25, but the shine has faded. Availability has been inconsistent. Production has dipped. The contract is real.
He is in year three of a five-year, $197 million deal and owed more than $39 million this season, with that number climbing over the next two years. Teams do not ignore that.
Stein pointed to the Heat as a team that has at least explored the idea. As always, Miami is connected when a name like this surfaces.
How far the Heat would go is unclear, especially if the conversation turns toward draft capital and young players instead of expiring money.
Other teams remain in the rumor orbit. According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Pelicans have joined a list that already includes the Kings, Raptors, and Bucks.
The comparison some executives are making is uncomfortable. Trae Young was moved despite strong numbers once his situation stalled.
Morant’s résumé looks shakier. He has never played 75 ganes in a season and has missed far more time than he has played over the past three years.
This season, Morant is averaging 19.0 points and 7.6 assists while shooting a career-low 40 percent from the field and barely 20 percent from three. That does not scream leverage.
Memphis may want a Trae Young-level return. The league may be telling them that window has already passed.
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