For the first time in his career, Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has reportedly emerged as a trade candidate. According to reports, the Grizzlies are listening to offers and could consider moving Morant ahead of the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline.
Meanwhile, multiple teams have been mentioned as potential destinations. However, former NBA guard Gilbert Arenas made it clear he doesn’t understand why Morant keeps being linked to the Miami Heat. On his podcast, Arenas questioned what Miami could realistically offer Memphis in return.
“Nobody is going to Miami. Memphis wants picks and players. Who the f*ck is over in Miami that anybody wants in this NBA. Can you name me one player in last 15 years that left Miami and was successful when they left. 1, 2? Just Jimmy?
Gilbert Arenas doesn’t get why Ja Morant is linked to Miami because they have no players anybody wants on their roster 😳
“Nobody is going to Miami. Memphis wants picks and players. Who the f*ck is over in Miami that anybody wants in this NBA. Can you name me one player in last… pic.twitter.com/h1pLbZM1aC
— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) January 13, 2026
“And we still question that. Even though Memphis is desperate right now, I don’t think they’re that desperate to take anything that’s coming out of Miami… Ain’t no basketball players in Florida right now unless they go to Orlando. Miami needs to let it go. Idk why Bam is still there. It seems like they put their name into everything.”
Despite the skepticism, reports suggest Morant himself is interested in joining the Heat. Tension between Morant and the Grizzlies organization has reportedly intensified after he voiced frustration with the coaching staff. The situation appears more complicated behind the scenes. Morant reportedly told teammates he wants out of Memphis after receiving a one-game suspension.
Zach Lowe Questions Whether Miami Is Serious About Ja Morant
Even with the uncertainty, Morant remains one of the league’s most talented guards, and a fresh start could potentially revive both his career and a franchise willing to take the risk. Miami has been floated as a possible landing spot, but not everyone believes the Heat are truly motivated to make a move. NBA insider Zach Lowe shared that while Miami may check in, genuine interest could be limited.
“I don’t sense a huge amount of interest from Miami but I bet they’ll look at it,” Lowe said. “I bet they look at it’s cause they lost 4 of 5. It’s clear what they are. They’re an average team…. They have an either or choice to make with Herro or Powell long term. Do we really want those guys for $70M a year or whatever… I would bet no on Miami but I think they at least take a look.”
Since being selected second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Morant has been the face of the Grizzlies franchise. However, availability has been a major issue this season that limited his impact on the court.
Morant has appeared in just 18 games so far, averaging 19.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. Now it remains unclear whether Memphis will fully commit to a rebuild around Morant or ultimately decide that a change of scenery is best for both sides.
