New Orleans Pelicans Rumored in Ja Morant Pursuit, but No Official Moves Yet

As the NBA trade market heats up ahead of the February 2025 deadline, reports suggest the New Orleans Pelicans are among teams exploring potential moves for Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, though no confirmed transactions have emerged. The Grizzlies have consistently emphasized their commitment to retaining Morant, who is under contract through the 2026-27 season.

According to a NBA.com report, multiple teams have engaged in preliminary discussions about Morant, but the Grizzlies have not indicated willingness to trade their star. A Grizzlies spokesperson reiterated the team’s stance in a statement: “Ja Morant is a cornerstone of our franchise, and we have no plans to move him at this time.”

What It Means for the NBA Trade Market

The speculation around Morant highlights the high stakes of the 2025 trade window, where contending teams seek to bolster their rosters. The Pelicans, currently in a tight race for the Western Conference playoffs, have been linked to several high-profile players, including Morant, as part of broader roster-building efforts.

“The Pelicans are evaluating all options to strengthen their playoff push,” said a league source familiar with the team’s strategy. “However, any move involving Morant would require a blockbuster package, and the Grizzlies have made it clear they’re not interested in deals that don’t match his value.”

Historical Context: Why Morant’s Availability Matters

Morant, a two-time All-Star and 2022 NBA Most Improved Player, has been a focal point of trade rumors since 2023. His unique combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility makes him one of the league’s most coveted assets. The Grizzlies’ reluctance to trade him mirrors their approach with other stars, such as Mike Conley in 2023, who was dealt only after a significant trade package was assembled.

“Morant’s market value is unprecedented,” said ESPN NBA analyst Zach Lowe. “Teams would need to surrender multiple top-tier assets—draft picks, young players, and established veterans—to land him. The Pelicans would need to weigh that cost against their current roster needs.”

Pelicans’ Roster Needs and Strategic Priorities

The Pelicans, who entered the 2024-25 season with a strong core of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum, have struggled with consistency in the second half of the season. Their 12-15 record in January placed them seventh in the Western Conference, raising questions about their playoff prospects.

Head coach Willie Green has emphasized the team’s focus on “improving depth and playmaking,” which could align with acquiring a player like Morant. However, the Pelicans’ current salary cap situation—projected to be $145 million in 2025—limits their flexibility for major trades, according to Basketball Insiders.

Other Teams in the Mix

While the Pelicans are the latest team to enter the conversation, the Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks have also been linked to Morant in recent weeks. The Warriors, in particular, have been vocal about their interest in adding a star to pair with Stephen Curry, though their focus remains on mid-tier players due to cap constraints.

The Knicks, meanwhile, have been more cautious, with general manager Scott Perry stating, “We’re not in a position to make a run at a player of Ja’s caliber right now.”

What’s Next for the Pelicans?

The Pelicans’ next opportunity to make a significant move comes with the March 2025 trade deadline. Teams will have more clarity on their playoff odds by then, which could influence their willingness to part with assets. For now, the focus remains on the Grizzlies’ stance and the potential for a blockbuster deal.

“The Grizzlies are in no hurry,” said a league insider. “They’ll wait for the right offer, and that could be months away.”

How to Follow the Story

Updates on Morant’s future will likely come through official team statements, league transactions, and reports from trusted outlets like ESPN, The Athletic, and NBA.com. Fans can also track the Pelicans’ roster moves via the team’s official website and social media channels.

The next confirmed checkpoint for the Pelicans is their game against the Sacramento Kings on February 18, 2025, at Smoothie King Center. A win could solidify their playoff hopes and shift focus away from trade speculation.

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