Memphis Grizzlies Kept Ja Morant at Trade Deadline

The team signaled a rebuild by trading Jaren Jackson Jr. but held onto star guard Ja Morant.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 3:07pm

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The Memphis Grizzlies were unable to find a suitable trade for star guard Ja Morant at the NBA trade deadline, despite trading away Jaren Jackson Jr. in a separate deal. The team signaled a rebuild by acquiring multiple future first-round picks in the Jackson trade, but decided to hold onto Morant for now despite some uncertainty around his fit with the team's new direction.

Why it matters

Morant is one of the NBA's brightest young stars, but his off-court issues have raised questions about his long-term future with the Grizzlies. By keeping him, the team risks losing value if his trade stock declines, but they also maintain the possibility of him regaining his All-Star form and being a centerpiece of the franchise's rebuild.

The details

The Grizzlies were reportedly seeking a specific package in return for Morant, but were unable to find a trade partner willing to meet their asking price at the deadline. The team instead focused on moving Jaren Jackson Jr., trading the forward to the Utah Jazz in an eight-player deal that netted Memphis three future first-round picks to aid their rebuild.

  • The NBA trade deadline passed on February 9, 2026.

The players

Ja Morant

The star guard of the Memphis Grizzlies who has faced off-court issues but is still considered one of the NBA's brightest young talents.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

The Grizzlies' former starting forward who was traded to the Utah Jazz as part of the team's rebuilding efforts.

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What they’re saying

“The Grizzlies definitely tried to trade Morant, but they were clear about wanting something specific in return, and they stood by their price for him. Teams never want to look desperate at the deadline, and that could have been the Grizzlies if they were pushing for a Morant trade. But they had enough restraint to wait until the offseason to try again for a Morant deal.”

— Jeremy Brener (si.com)

What’s next

The Grizzlies will likely continue to explore trade options for Ja Morant in the offseason, when they may have more leverage to find a suitable deal.

The takeaway

The Grizzlies' decision to hold onto Ja Morant at the trade deadline was a risky one, as they could lose value on the star guard if his off-court issues continue to be a distraction. However, the team is banking on Morant regaining his All-Star form and becoming a centerpiece of their rebuilding efforts, which could pay off if he can stay out of trouble.