The Memphis Grizzlies find themselves at a crossroads. After parting ways with their longtime coach, Taylor Jenkins, before the playoffs, watching their postseason run end abruptly, and making the surprising decision to trade Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, the franchise appears to be charting a new course. Yet amid all this change, one massive question looms over everything else: What happens next with Ja Morant?
Can Ja Morant Stay Healthy Enough to Lead the Grizzlies’ Rebuild?
The Grizzlies secured valuable pieces by extending Jaren Jackson Jr. and adding guard Ty Jerome from the Cleveland Cavaliers, moves designed to reduce the playmaking pressure on Morant. However, PFSN identified one player on each NBA team who could find themselves in trade rumors this season. Their pick for Memphis? Morant and his massive $197,230,450 contract.
The reasoning centers on a harsh reality. Despite Morant’s undeniable talent, his availability issues have capped the team’s ceiling. As the article notes, his “electric play has been overshadowed by injuries and off-court issues. He missed 33 games last season and sat out key playoff moments, including a hip injury against the Oklahoma City Thunder.”
Those availability concerns extend beyond just injuries. Morant faced two separate NBA suspensions for displaying firearms on social media and received additional fines for mimicking gun gestures. Add in hip and ankle injuries throughout the season, and the pattern becomes clear.
The postseason results tell the story of missed opportunities. “While still a marquee talent, Morant’s availability has impacted Memphis’ postseason hopes. The Grizzlies have won just one playoff series in Morant’s six-year career, leading to significant personnel changes.”
What Do the Numbers Say About Morant’s Impact on Memphis?
The statistical evidence makes Memphis’s dilemma even more complicated. When Morant plays, everything changes for this franchise. The Grizzlies boast an impressive 178-129 record with their All-Star point guard leading the charge, compared to a disappointing 76-90 mark without him.
The offensive numbers paint an even clearer picture. With Morant orchestrating the attack, Memphis averages 115.8 points per game and maintains a .580 winning percentage. Without him, the points dip to 111.8, and that winning percentage drops to .458, highlighting just how much the team’s fortunes rise and fall with their franchise player.
This past season exemplified both sides of the Morant equation. Despite appearing in only 50 games, the Grizzlies won 30 of those contests. Morant delivered his typical excellence when available, averaging 23.2 points and 7.3 assists, which align perfectly with his career standards.
His jaw-dropping athleticism remains unquestioned, as evidenced by this reverse dunk against the Boston Celtics that earned him the AT&T Dunk of the Year award.
How Did Morant React to the Grizzlies’ Roster Changes?
The franchise’s recent moves have sent mixed signals about its direction, and Morant’s reactions offer insight into the organization’s internal dynamics. Initially, he expressed “shock” upon learning about the Bane trade to Orlando, admitting he thought the report was fake until official confirmation arrived.
However, Morant also praised several front office decisions, including the acquisitions of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jerome during the offseason. He supported both the Jackson Jr. extension and the draft day addition of Cedric Coward, suggesting he remains committed to the organization’s vision.
The current situation suggests Memphis plans to build around the Morant-Jackson Jr. core, despite the speculation. Any potential trade would require a massive return given Morant’s status as both the franchise cornerstone and an All-Star talent.
While no immediate moves appear on the horizon, league observers expect the Miami Heat to monitor the situation closely, as Pat Riley continues searching for a star player to energize the franchise under the bright lights of South Beach.