The Memphis Grizzlies entered the 2024-25 season with championship aspirations, but things didn't go according to plan.
Buoyed by a talented roster featuring Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and draft pick Zach Edey, the Grizz were poised for success, but they surprisingly fired Taylor Jenkins near the end of the regular season and then suffered a first-round playoff sweep at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
General Manager Zach Kleiman has acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating in a postseason press conference that the Grizzlies are not close to title contention.
A key factor in Memphis' inability to take the next step in recent years has been the inconsistent availability of Morant, whose absence has hindered the team’s ability to capitalize on its depth and potential.
As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Grizzlies could surprisingly pursue a transformative trade involving Morant.
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Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes recently proposed a blockbuster trade idea that could shake up the NBA landscape.
“The Memphis Grizzlies haven't been able to rely on Ja Morant for two years," Hughes wrote.
"Whether due to suspension or injury, the former All-Star's infrequent availability (59 games across 2023-24 and 2024-25) has been among the reasons why Memphis has disappointed despite having no shortage of top-end talent and depth. Trae Young played 76 games last season and has averaged just under 70 in his seven seasons. Morant has never played more than 67, which he did back as a rookie in 2019-20."
"Young is a superior passer who's averaged over 10 assists per game for three years running, and the threat of his deep-range shooting opens up the floor in ways that benefit his teammates," Hughes continued.
"Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. would see their shot quality skyrocket with Young at the controls. A one-for-one challenge trade exchanging the two point guards would be fascinating, as Morant might appeal to a Hawks squad that ranked just 20th in field-goal percentage on drives and 27th in free-throw attempts generated on drives.”
Ja's $39.4 million contract for 2025-26 is comparable to Young’s $43.0 million, making a one-for-one swap financially feasible.
But for the Grizzlies, trading Morant, a two-time All-Star and the face of the franchise, would be no small decision. Despite his injury-plagued 2024-25 season (23.2 points, 7.3 assists in 50 games), Morant remains a dynamic talent with elite athleticism and playmaking ability. Additionally, his cultural significance in Memphis and his potential to return to All-NBA form at age 25 complicate the decision. Parting with Morant would risk alienating fans and squandering a generational talent.
The Hawks would probably be more interested in this deal than Memphis. Young’s fit alongside Bane and Jackson could unlock a top-10 offense.
But given Kleiman’s history of bold moves, this deal shouldn't be ruled out.
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