Ja Morant Drops Cryptic Message Amid Trade Speculation

The Memphis Grizzlies star guard's social media post fuels uncertainty around his future with the team.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 4:23pm

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Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant posted a cryptic message on his personal X account amid ongoing trade speculation surrounding the two-time All-Star. Morant's four-word message, "Time tells the truth," comes as the NBA trade deadline approaches on Thursday, with the Grizzlies facing a decision on whether to move off their young superstar.

Why it matters

Morant has been the face of the Grizzlies franchise since being drafted 2nd overall in 2019, leading the team to the playoffs in back-to-back seasons. However, recent off-court incidents have created uncertainty around his future in Memphis, prompting trade rumors and speculation about where the dynamic guard could end up.

The details

While the Grizzlies have reportedly set a high asking price for Morant, including a 2031 or 2032 first-round pick and a promising young player, it remains unclear if they will ultimately decide to trade the 23-year-old. Morant is currently under contract through the 2027-28 season on a five-year, $197 million deal that includes a trade kicker.

  • On Saturday, Morant posted the cryptic message on his personal X account.

The players

Ja Morant

A two-time NBA All-Star and the face of the Memphis Grizzlies franchise since being drafted 2nd overall in 2019.

Milwaukee Bucks

An NBA team that has reportedly expressed interest in trading for Morant, though their chances of landing him were deemed unlikely.

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What they’re saying

“While the Bucks expressed interest in Grizzlies star Morant, Milwaukee's chances of landing the two-time All-Star were deemed unlikely within the past few days following Antetokounmpo's injury, HoopsHype has learned.”

— Michael Scotto, NBA Insider (HoopsHype)

“It seems clear that the Grizzlies are looking for more than just expiring money in return for Morant, and that the eventual deal will involve some combination of useful players, picks and prospects; maybe not hugely useful players, but Memphis seems intent on getting something positive out of this.”

— John Hollinger, NBA Analyst (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Grizzlies will have to decide by Thursday's trade deadline whether to keep Morant or move him to another team, with the potential return package a key factor in their decision.

The takeaway

Morant's cryptic social media post has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his future in Memphis, as the Grizzlies must weigh the long-term implications of trading away their young superstar against the potential benefits of a deal that could reshape the franchise's direction.