Ja Morant continues to express his desire to remain with the Memphis Grizzlies, despite recent trade speculation and the team’s shift towards a younger roster. The two-time All-Star addressed his future with the franchise, stating, “I hope so,” when asked by the Commercial Appeal if he envisions himself still wearing a Grizzlies uniform next season. “You guys should know more than me. The internet is just there. Everything you ask me is already on the internet,” Morant added.
Morant’s comments echo sentiments he shared earlier this season, following a game against the Orlando Magic in London on January 18, 2026. At that time, he emphasized his “loyalty” to the Grizzlies, stating, “I’ve got a logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be. Those who know me know that I’m a loyal guy.”
Despite Morant’s public commitment, the Grizzlies reportedly explored trade options for him at the recent trade deadline. However, according to reports, a lack of serious offers led the team to ultimately retain him. This decision came shortly after Memphis traded Jaren Jackson Jr. To the Utah Jazz, signaling a clear move towards rebuilding with younger players.
Morant acknowledged the trade of Jackson Jr., stating, “I wasn’t a fan (of that decision), but it’s business. As I told him, he’s been professional for eight years now, so he has to continue to be.” He made these remarks ahead of the Grizzlies’ game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Grizzlies’ general manager, Zach Kleiman, has publicly stated the team is now focused on developing a younger core, mentioning players like Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, Cam Spencer, and Jaylen Wells. Despite this shift, Morant remains optimistic about his fit within the organization. “Why wouldn’t I be? I’ve been happy here all this time,” he said.
Morant’s availability, however, remains a concern. He continues to experience discomfort in his right elbow and is expected to be re-evaluated in two weeks, according to the team. “The biggest thing is when I have to craft a pass to the opposite side with this hand. Other than that, I perceive like I can play through the pain, but I also have to be smart,” Morant explained.
His current injury casts uncertainty on his ability to return to the court this season. Looking ahead, Morant believes he can still contribute to the Grizzlies’ future, even as the team undergoes a significant rebuild. “I would fit in the same way I would on any other team. Simply with everything Ja brings to the table,” he concluded.
The Grizzlies’ decision to retain Morant, despite exploring trade options, highlights a complex situation. The team is balancing the desire to build for the future with the potential value of a proven star like Morant. His continued presence, if he can return to full health, could accelerate the rebuilding process, but also potentially limit the team’s flexibility in acquiring future assets.
Morant’s performance in his return to the lineup on January 18th, where he scored 24 points and dished out 13 assists in a 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic in London, demonstrated his continued impact on the court. The game marked his first appearance after a six-game absence due to a calf injury. He played under a minutes restriction, but still showcased his dynamic playmaking ability.
The win in London was a welcome boost for a Grizzlies team that had been struggling, winning only three of their previous ten games. Morant’s return provided an immediate spark, and his ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates was evident throughout the game. He emphasized the therapeutic value of simply being able to play basketball, stating, “Just being able to play basketball – it’s very therapeutic for me. I know what I’m capable of out there on the court and I was able to show that tonight.”
The Grizzlies built a substantial lead in the first half, a stark contrast to their previous game in Berlin against the Magic, where they squandered a 20-point advantage. Morant credited the coaching staff for putting the team in advantageous positions and his own ability to make the right plays. “That’s just credit to Coach putting us in the best spots possible and then just me being Ja and wind up making the right play whether it’s passing or scoring,” he said. “We got into a great rhythm early, got a substantial lead, after that it’s just managing.”
Morant, 26, is currently in the third year of a five-year, $197.2 million contract, earning approximately $39.4 million this season. His contract situation adds another layer of complexity to the team’s long-term planning.
The Grizzlies will continue to monitor Morant’s elbow injury and assess his progress over the next two weeks. His return to the court will be crucial as the team navigates its rebuilding phase and attempts to establish a competitive identity for the future. The next scheduled game for the Grizzlies is against the Phoenix Suns on March 22, 2026, at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Updates on Morant’s status will be provided as they become available.
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