- Ja Morant says he must “live with” ongoing trade speculation as the Memphis Grizzlies entertain offers.
- Morant was ruled out of Thursday’s game in Berlin with a right calf contusion but hopes to play later in the European trip.
- Sources say rival teams expect the Grizzlies to prioritize draft picks and young players in any trade for Morant.
- Morant had an animated exchange in practice with teammate Vince Williams Jr., drawing attention amid the reports.
Trade chatter and Morant’s reaction
Ja Morant gave terse answers to questions about his future with the Memphis Grizzlies, telling reporters he has to “live with it” when asked about reports the team is entertaining trade offers. The 26-year-old point guard traveled with the club on its European trip and said he “hopefully” will play in two games against the Orlando Magic this week.
Morant later was ruled out of Thursday’s matchup in Berlin after sustaining a right calf contusion that has sidelined him since Jan. 2. He has missed five straight games and has appeared in just 18 contests this season because of injuries and a one-game suspension tied to a postgame exchange with coach Tuomas Iisalo in November.
Practice moment: Vince Williams Jr. exchange
During Wednesday’s practice, Morant had an animated exchange with teammate Vince Williams Jr. that was captured by reporters on the trip. The incident added fuel to the storyline, but the Grizzlies have not publicly linked the interaction to trade talks or disciplinary measures.
What teams are offering — per sources
ESPN’s reporting, citing league sources, says multiple teams have pursued Morant in recent trade conversations. Rival executives believe Memphis would prioritize draft picks and young players in return for the two-time All-Star, rather than established veterans.
Those sources indicated this is the first time the Grizzlies have seriously entertained offers for Morant since he joined the franchise. Any long-term decision will factor in Morant’s current contract — he is signed through the 2027-28 season and will be eligible this summer to sign up to a three-year, $178 million extension.
Injury and availability concerns
Morant’s limited availability this season raises trade valuation questions. Between the calf injury, other missed games and the suspension, he has not been a consistent presence on the floor. Teams weighing a potential trade would likely account for his recent injury history and how quickly he returns to full form.
What comes next for Morant and the Grizzlies
Memphis is expected to continue gauging interest while managing the short-term task of its European trip. Morant’s immediate timeline depends on his calf recovery; team officials have not set a firm return date beyond ruling him out for the Berlin game. League sources suggest any trade decision would hinge on finding the right package of picks and young talent that aligns with the Grizzlies’ rebuild or competitive timeline.
For now, Morant’s public stance is succinct: he will “live with” the noise and focus on his recovery and possible appearances overseas. The situation remains fluid as teams keep talking and the Grizzlies evaluate offers.
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