Timberwolves have checked in with Grizzlies about Ja Morant

The Timberwolves have reportedly at least poked around on a Ja Morant trade.

Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic said on SiriusXM NBA Radio that Minnesota has “checked in” with Memphis to gauge whether Morant might eventually become available (via RealGM).

Krawczynski described it more as a light touch than anything serious.

“Testing the waters a little bit,” he said, adding that the Wolves could “look harder at Ja Morant” if they still have a point guard problem by December.

This naturally follows the drama from nine days ago, when Morant clashed with the Grizzlies’ coaching staff during a loss to the Lakers. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo reportedly challenged Morant over focus and effort.

Morant was then suspended for one game. He returned, and things have calmed on the surface, but there is no indication that the tension has gone away.

Multiple league insiders have reported that Memphis is not actively considering a Morant trade. The hope is that the relationship gets repaired.

Still, Minnesota has a need. Thirty-eight-year-old Mike Conley is being used mostly as a reserve and is averaging 6.5 points and 3.9 assists. Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle are handling most of the creation.

There are also cap mechanics. Minnesota sits in the first apron. They cannot send out more salary than they take back. Morant makes $39.5 million this season.