Bleacher Report named one player on every NBA team that is most likely to hit the trade block next. As expected, Ja Morant's name was mentioned as the player for the Grizzlies that would be on the trade block this summer. Even though Morant's market was not strong at this year's deadline, the article talked about the possibility of multiple teams potentially being interested this summer.
Two noteworthy examples named were the Orlando Magic and Miami Heat, teams that could end up weighing their early guard options if eliminated early in the playoffs. Despite Morant's trade value being the lowest it has ever been, both those teams potentially acting out of desperation could spark a surprise bidding war for his services.
The Grizzlies' previously promising core could split completely
As far as this past deadline went, the Kings and Bucks had some interest in Ja Morant despite the fact a deal wasn't reached. The Kings could use a big-name player such as Morant, and the Bucks could look to trade for him in order to potentially keep Giannis Antetokounmpo happy in Milwaukee.
The Grizzlies had previously moved on Desmond Bane last summer and got a significant pick haul in the process. They also made the decision to trade Jaren Jackson Jr. two days before this year's trade deadline despite signing him to an extension last summer. The last one remaining of the once promising core in Memphis is Ja Morant.
Could the Grizzlies recoup some value?
Between injuries and offensive inconsistency, it would not be wise for the Grizzlies to offer him an extension. The options are to either hold on to him through the last two years and $88 million of his contract or seek a trade partner.
If the Grizzlies decide to trade Morant, it will be difficult to overcome how low his value currently is. Morant has played just 79 regular season games in the last three seasons and is coming off his most inefficient offensive season. It is concerning due to the fact that he is 26 and should be peaking as a player. However, it remains understandable as to why some teams still want to bank on his talent.
At this stage, Morant would likely not be able to net the Grizzlies any significant draft capital. However, if teams such as the Heat or Bucks end up getting desperate, the chances of at least getting a quality young player could increase. Even though the original fear was attaching draft capital or another young player to Morant (could still be true), the Grizzlies might get a slightly better return than if they traded him this deadline.
Ja Morant's trade value is the lowest it has ever been; however, there still seems like the chance of the Grizzlies capitalizing on a team or two getting desperate to trade for him.