Ja Morant moving to Miami Heat? (Image via Getty Images) Amid talk about Ja Morant’s impending departure from the Memphis Grizzlies, one franchise has emerged as a possible trade destination for the former All-Star. The Miami Heat, who are hoping to make the Eastern Conference playoffs, have reportedly held internal discussions regarding trading for Ja Morant. The former All-Star guard has a negative worth, but it didn’t discourage the Heat. According to expert Jake Fischer, Miami is optimistic that its infrastructure can help Morant. He went on to say that the Miami Heat “have had internal discussions about” Morant, including “how Miami’s infrastructure could benefit him.”
The Heat believe their stable system could help Ja Morant find his footing again
The Grizzlies star’s performance has declined each year since his breakout season in 2021-22, when he led the team to the Western Conference playoffs. Morant’s ailments have also reduced his availability, thus lowering his trade worth.As per Marc Stein:“Miami was already shaping into a surprising buyer on this trade market even before this week’s Giannis headlines. League sources say that the Heat, for example, have had internal discussions about Memphis’ Ja Morant and how Miami’s infrastructure could benefit him…”Morant’s name has been included in trade rumors since early in the season, when he was suspended for conduct detrimental to the team after making comments criticizing the Grizzlies’ coaching.Following Morant’s remarks regarding Memphis’ coaching staff, “voices were raised” in the locker room, and head coach Tuomas Iisalo “singled Morant out for his lack of effort and leadership,” according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.com.Morant claimed upon his return from suspension that he did not enjoy playing for Memphis. HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto stated last month that rival executives “circled like vultures” to see if Morant was available for a deal, but the Grizzlies had previously rebuffed all trade enquiries. According to Scotto, Morant is being “carefully monitored” by opposing clubs.Given his early troubles and subsequent injury, it’s difficult to determine Morant’s trade value, but a report last week by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon and Bobby Marks suggested that he may not have much.”The combination of pain in the ass, injury prone, not that good anymore and big contract is a bad one,” an East executive said, adding that he “wouldn’t want Morant on his roster regardless of salary.”
The Heat see Ja Morant as a risky but potentially rewarding gamble in their search for a new franchise star
The Heat haven’t signed a star player since Jimmy Butler in 2019, and his stint lasted until February this year. They were linked to top players like Kevin Durant, Damian Lillard, and Bradley Beal, who formerly dominated the market, but were unable to sign any of them.Morant has been far from his best this season, averaging 17.9 points and 7.6 assists per game while shooting 35.9 percent from the field and 16.7 percent from deep. He has not played since November 15 due to a right calf strain sustained against the Cleveland Cavaliers.At his peak, Morant was an All-Star-caliber player capable of being the best player on a playoff team, but it’s difficult to say whether he still is. Trading for Morant may be a risky move for the Heat, but it might pay off if he returns to his previous level of play.Miami has returned to the trade rumor mill with Giannis Antetokounmpo. They have the youthful assets, but they may not have enough picks to entice the Bucks into a trade. Ja Morant could be a cheaper option.Also read: What did Ja Morant say? Tensions rise in Memphis Grizzlies camp as NBA pro faces shocking one-game suspension