Joe Johnson Believes Ja Morant Would 'Thrive' Under Pat Riley's Guidance at Heat

Former NBA guard sees Miami as the perfect fit to unlock Morant's full potential amid his recent struggles in Memphis.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:20pm

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Former NBA player Joe Johnson believes that if Ja Morant were traded to the Miami Heat, he would thrive under the guidance of team president Pat Riley. Johnson argues that the Heat's disciplined culture and Riley's personal approach could help Morant rediscover his explosiveness and confidence after a recent stretch of inconsistency and injury setbacks with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Why it matters

Morant's future with the Grizzlies has come into question as the team enters a pivotal offseason. A potential trade to the Heat could provide Morant with a reset and the structure he needs to reach his full potential, while also allowing the Grizzlies to potentially shift their team philosophy if they decide to move in a different direction.

The details

Johnson highlighted the Heat's demanding culture built on discipline and accountability, which he believes could benefit Morant. The former guard recalled his own experience with the franchise, saying 'I never went to the club when I played for the Heat. We worked so hard I couldn't wait to go lay down.' Johnson thinks Riley's personal approach to players could also help unlock Morant's talent, as the Heat look to retool their roster in the offseason.

  • Morant has been dealing with inconsistency and an elbow injury, averaging under 20 points per game recently.

The players

Ja Morant

The star point guard of the Memphis Grizzlies who has struggled with inconsistency and injury this season.

Joe Johnson

A former NBA guard who believes Morant would thrive under the guidance of Heat team president Pat Riley.

Pat Riley

The team president of the Miami Heat, known for his demanding culture and personal approach to developing players.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not going to lie, I think he would thrive in that Miami situation. One thing about Pat Riley, he's going to have a real sit down 1 on 1 with him... If you apply it, I promise you the sky will be the limit for this kid again.”

— Joe Johnson, Former NBA Guard

What’s next

The Grizzlies are expected to evaluate their roster in the offseason, which could open the door for a potential Morant trade to the Heat or other teams. The Grizzlies also have a likely top-8 draft pick, which could allow them to potentially shift their team philosophy if they decide to move in a different direction.

The takeaway

Ja Morant's future with the Grizzlies is uncertain, and a trade to the disciplined, accountable culture of the Miami Heat could be the reset he needs to rediscover his elite form. However, the Grizzlies also have an opportunity to reassess their long-term identity this offseason, potentially shifting away from Morant's high-usage, explosive style.