The Memphis Grizzlies have already traded Desmond Bane. They've moved on from Jaren Jackson Jr. Now, only one piece of that original core remains: Ja Morant. And according to ESPN's Michael C. Wright, it's only a matter of time before he's gone too.
In a recent article following Sunday's NBA Draft lottery, Wright laid out the Grizzlies' new direction. "Memphis has already shifted its focus to a new young core that features shooting guard Cedric Coward, forward Jaylen Wells, and center Zach Edey," he wrote. "At this point, it appears the Grizzlies are just seeking the best deal in a Morant trade, which likely won't be there until after the draft and free agency, when teams in pursuit of stars consider secondary options."
It's been a rapid fall from grace for the former No. 2 overall pick. Morant burst onto the scene and quickly became one of the NBA's most electrifying talents, but off-court issues, persistent injuries, and reported clashes with the coaching staff have all clouded his future in Memphis. The Grizzlies have done everything they can to reset—they even landed the No. 3 pick in this year's lottery. Moving Morant would complete the franchise's full pivot into a fresh era.
For any trade partner, there will be plenty of questions to answer—about Morant's availability, his fit, and his ability to return to his All-Star form. But in the end, someone will take a chance on that incredible talent, hoping the rest can be worked out. What's clear is that Memphis is no longer the team willing to wait and find out.
