NBA trade proposal pairs Ja Morant with Anthony Edwards on Timberwolves

The Timberwolves may not actually be shopping for Ja Morant, and the Grizzlies certainly haven’t indicated they plan to move him.

But ESPN recently floated a hypothetical trade idea that would create one of the NBA’s most explosive backcourts.

In the proposed deal, Minnesota would land Morant while Memphis would receive Julius Randle, Terrence Shannon Jr. and rookie big man Joan Beringer.

The logic behind the proposal is fairly straightforward.

As written by ESPN, the Timberwolves may have reached something close to their ceiling with the current roster, particularly offensively. Pairing Morant alongside Anthony Edwards would instantly give Minnesota one of the league’s most athletic and dangerous guard combinations.

The Wolves also have a clear need at point guard, especially after Donte DiVincenzo suffered a torn Achilles tendon.

On paper, at least, Morant’s speed, shot creation and playmaking would seem like a natural fit next to Edwards.

ESPN also pointed out that Minnesota would still maintain much of its defensive identity with Rudy Gobert, Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels remaining in place.

From Memphis’ side, the proposal would continue what some around the league believe could become a roster reset around younger players and future flexibility.

Randle would provide an experienced veteran presence and another proven scorer, while Shannon and Beringer would give the Grizzlies two younger pieces with upside.

Shannon especially impressed during stretches of the postseason, averaging 17.3 points over a three-game span while filling in for Minnesota’s injured backcourt.

ESPN NBA analyst Bobby Marks also noted there would be financial complications for the Timberwolves in the deal.

Minnesota would be taking back additional salary, potentially triggering hard-cap concerns and making it more difficult to retain free-agent guard Ayo Dosunmu.

So no, this isn’t a report. No indication exists that talks are actually happening.

Still, as far as offseason hypotheticals go, an Edwards-Morant pairing would certainly get the NBA’s attention.