For the first time, the Memphis Grizzlies are open to listening to trade offers involving Ja Morant. The two-time All-Star guard could be moved before the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline as uncertainty continues to surround his future with the franchise.
Speculation intensified after Memphis suspended Morant for one game following his public frustration with the coaching staff. An ESPN report shed more light on Morant’s reaction to the suspension. According to the report, after the suspension, he expressed to players across the league and several former coaches that he no longer sees himself playing in Memphis.
“League sources told ESPN’s Michael C. Wright that Morant still hasn’t gotten over the suspension because he felt alienated by teammates, who were told to leave the star guard alone so he could work through the issues that led to the suspension,” ESPN reported. “In the aftermath, Morant told players around the league and some of his former coaches that he isn’t playing for Memphis anymore, according to sources.”
After his suspension, Ja Morant reportedly told players around the league and former coaches that he isn’t playing for Memphis anymore.
(via @mikecwright, h/t @Fullcourtpass) pic.twitter.com/lYdnhh1pMU
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 9, 2026
Given Morant’s talent and experience, interest around the league is expected to be strong. NBA insider Shams Charania reported that Memphis would focus on acquiring draft picks and young players if a deal materializes.
“Multiple teams are pursuing Morant in trade talks and rival executives believe the Grizzlies would prioritize draft picks and young players in return, sources said,” Shams wrote. “Morant, 26, is under contract with the Grizzlies through the 2027-28 season.”
Several franchises are closely monitoring Morant’s situation. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Sacramento Kings have emerged as leading teams keeping tabs on Morant’s availability.
Kevin Garnett Believes Heat Culture Could Be the Perfect Reset for Ja Morant
On the KG Certified podcast, Kevin Garnett shared his belief that Miami would be an ideal landing spot for Ja Morant.
“Miami got some structure. You not down there doing whatever the f*** you want — you down there in some real structure….they (Miami) might be the last to have real culture where when you come in you’re actually better…whatever they’re pumping in the 305 — it’s working,” Garnett said.
Throughout his career, Morant has been involved in many on and off-court controversies. The Grizzlies star is currently enduring the most difficult season of his NBA career. Before being sidelined by injury, he was averaging 19.0 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game.
In that sense, Garnett’s perspective aligns with Miami’s long-standing reputation under team president Pat Riley, whose demanding approach has defined the Heat culture for decades. In such an environment, Morant would be given a clear framework to develop, adjust, and potentially rediscover stability both on and off the court.
