Ja Morant did little to quiet the noise surrounding his future during a brief press conference in Berlin ahead of Thursday’s game against Orlando.
Morant met with reporters for about six minutes and kept his answers short, according to Joe Vardon of The Athletic. Asked how ongoing trade rumors are affecting him, Morant replied simply, “Live with it.”
Speculation has intensified since ESPN’s Shams Charania reported last week that the Grizzlies are listening to offers. When asked whether he expects to still be with Memphis after the Feb. 5 deadline, Morant deflected, responding, “I’m the only one you asked that question to?”
Morant also brushed aside concerns about fan reaction, saying his own response was what mattered most.
He did address his relationship with coach Tuomas Iisalo, which had been strained earlier this season. “He cool,” Morant said. “That’s just y’all on the outside looking in.”
Memphis later announced Morant will miss Thursday’s game due to a right calf contusion, marking his sixth straight absence. League sources told Vardon that Morant has privately expressed doubt about playing for the Grizzlies again.
Meanwhile, the Heat have emerged as an appealing option, per Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports. Morant reportedly respects coach Erik Spoelstra and views Miami’s structure and veteran presence favorably.
Morant has three years and $125 million remaining on his deal and is believed to be eyeing a future max extension. How this plays out, and where, remains unresolved.
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