Ja Morant’s backcourt teammate was recently traded, but it appears Morant isn’t going anywhere — at least not yet.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Memphis Grizzlies still intend to build their core around All-Star guard Ja Morant and standout big man Jaren Jackson Jr. Despite trading guard Desmond Bane over the weekend — a 26-year-old averaging 20 points per game — for a draft pick-heavy package from an Eastern Conference playoff team, the Grizzlies are reportedly “signaling privately” that Morant remains central to their future plans.
The move sparked speculation that Memphis, who were swept in the first round of the playoffs, might be headed into a full rebuild. Morant, a former All-NBA selection, is arguably the team’s most valuable asset. He’s still just 25 and has three years left on his current deal. However, recent off-court controversies and frequent injuries have reportedly tested the organization’s patience.
Tensions between Morant and the franchise were rumored in March following the dismissal of head coach Taylor Jenkins. Morant also recently switched agents, adding more fuel to the uncertainty.
Despite the questions, Morant — who posted 23.2 points and 7.3 assists per game last season — is eligible for a two-year extension this summer. While it’s unclear if Memphis will actually offer the deal, for now, the team seems open to keeping the explosive guard for the remainder of his contract.
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