What's happened
Ja Morant remains with the Memphis Grizzlies after the trade deadline, despite ongoing issues and injuries that have lowered his market value. The team did not trade him, focusing instead on rebuilding with younger players and future draft picks. Morant's future with Memphis remains uncertain as he rehabs from injury.
What's behind the headline?
The decline in Morant's trade value reflects a combination of his recent off-court issues, injuries, and declining performance. Windhorst emphasizes that his 'negative value' stems from his contract and recent controversies, making teams hesitant to acquire him without significant draft compensation. The team's decision not to trade Morant indicates a strategic focus on rehabilitation and future potential, but it also underscores the risk of his ongoing issues. If Morant can return to form and play 'excellent' basketball, his market value could improve, but current circumstances suggest Memphis is prepared to wait and see. The broader context shows a league increasingly cautious about players with off-court problems, especially those with large contracts, which will likely influence Morant's future prospects.
What the papers say
The NY Post reports that Windhorst described Morant's value as 'negative' due to suspensions, injuries, and off-court issues, with teams unwilling to take on his contract without draft picks. AP News highlights Memphis's strategic decision to rebuild by trading Jaren Jackson Jr. and not moving Morant, emphasizing the team's focus on future assets. The sources contrast the league's cautious stance with Morant's undeniable talent, suggesting his future hinges on his ability to rehabilitate and regain trust both on and off the court.
How we got here
Morant, a former NBA rookie of the year, has faced suspensions, injuries, and off-court issues in recent years, impacting his performance and market value. Memphis has shifted its focus to rebuilding, acquiring multiple first-round picks and younger players, while Morant's contract remains a significant obstacle for potential trades.
Go deeper
More on these topics
-
The Memphis Grizzlies are an American professional basketball team based in Memphis, Tennessee. The Grizzlies compete in the National Basketball Association as a member of the league's Western Conference Southwest Division.
-
Jaren Walter Jackson Jr. is an American professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for the Michigan State Spartans. He was selected by Memphis with the fourth overall pick
-
The Utah Jazz are an American professional basketball team based in Salt Lake City. The Jazz compete in the National Basketball Association as a member of the league's Western Conference, Northwest Division.
-
Temetrius Jamel "Ja" Morant is an American professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association.
-
The Atlanta Hawks are an American professional basketball team based in Atlanta. The Hawks compete in the National Basketball Association as a member of the league's Eastern Conference Southeast Division. The team plays its home games at State Farm Arena.
-
Jock Landale is an Australian professional basketball player for the San Antonio Spurs of the National Basketball Association. He played college basketball for the Saint Mary's Gaels.