We are getting much closer to one of the most important offseasons in franchise history for the Memphis Grizzlies. What was once a promising core in Memphis consisting of Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. has now been reduced to just Ja Morant.
On April 29, 2022, the Grizzlies won a playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, and it felt like it was the beginning of multiple years of playoff success. Despite being seen as the promise of the NBA not even four full years ago, the Grizzlies are now rebuilding, and this summer is absolutely pivotal for the franchise.
The Grizzlies will have plenty of decisions to make as far as roster construction goes in the new rebuild. It is clear that the team needs to find a healthy balance of proven veterans while adding more young high upside. However, the biggest decision that has to be made in Memphis this offseason is centered on Ja Morant's future.
The Ja Morant question looms large on this Grizzlies offseason
Bobby Marks of ESPN recently released an article focusing on one big question that every lottery team faces this offseason. The Grizzlies currently have a 6% chance at landing the #1 pick and are set to have three top-31 picks (currently projected 8, 18, and 31). It is no secret that the 2026 NBA Draft is loaded with talent, and it can be a fast way for the Grizzlies to improve the roster.
In the early stages of the rebuild, it is clear that the Grizzlies are trying to get younger. But the decision to trade Morant is a burning question that must be addressed this summer.
Marks cited the fact that Morant has two years and $88 million remaining on his current deal and that it is unclear how his contract fits into the Grizzlies' shift towards youth. It is also important to remember that the Grizzlies previously attempted to trade Morant at this year's deadline, but a lack of availability heavily contributed to his market being lukewarm.
It is an enormous decision regardless of how it plays out
The fact of the matter is that Ja Morant's value is currently at its lowest. Morant has appeared in just 79 regular season games the last three seasons, including just 20 this season before being shut down for the rest of the year. Morant still possesses enormous talent; however, he was having one of his worst offensive seasons. He averaged 19.5 points, 8.1 assists, and 3.3 rebounds but shot 41% from the field and just 23.5% from three, both career lows.
However, games like his 40-point game against the 76ers on December 30 and his game against the Magic in London on January 18 are reminders of what Morant can still do at his best. Morant could still end up being a valuable piece around the Grizzlies' young talent if the team does not end up moving him this summer.
Ja Morant is beloved in Memphis, and hearing the word "rebuild" is never encouraging to hear as a fan. Regardless, the decision to trade or not trade Ja Morant this summer will have an enormous impact on the Grizzlies' future direction as a franchise.