Ja Morant Reportedly 'Done' in Memphis as Trade Talks Loom

The relationship between Morant and the Grizzlies appears to be beyond repair.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:54pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the complex dynamics between a star player and his team.The fractured, chaotic relationship between Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies organization is reflected in this Cubist-inspired illustration.Memphis Today

According to ESPN's reporting, Ja Morant has 'not gotten over' his suspension earlier this season and has told players and former coaches that he is 'done playing for Memphis.' The emotional fallout from the suspension has created a disconnect between Morant and the franchise, and the Grizzlies are now expected to explore trading their star player this summer.

Why it matters

Morant is one of the NBA's brightest young talents, and his potential departure would be a major shakeup for the Grizzlies franchise. The team will have to weigh Morant's elite skills against the off-court concerns that have plagued him, and determine if a change of scenery could unlock the version of Morant that once looked like a future superstar.

The details

Multiple league sources indicated that Morant felt isolated during his suspension, as teammates were instructed to give him space while he worked through off-court issues. Instead of helping, that distance may have deepened a disconnect between the franchise and its star player. Morant has reportedly told players around the league and even former coaches that he is 'done playing for Memphis,' signaling that the situation may be beyond repair.

  • Morant was suspended earlier this season for off-court issues.
  • The Grizzlies are expected to explore trading Morant this summer.

The players

Ja Morant

A 26-year-old All-Star point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies who has reportedly told players and former coaches that he is 'done playing for Memphis.'

Memphis Grizzlies

The NBA franchise that drafted Morant and has built its team around him, but is now expected to explore trading him this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“There's certainly going to be hesitation, but there's going to be several desperate teams.”

— Tim MacMahon, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Grizzlies are expected to explore trading Ja Morant this summer, and league executives believe there will be a market for him despite the obvious risks.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between managing a star player's off-court issues and keeping them engaged within the franchise. The Grizzlies will have to carefully weigh Morant's immense talent against the concerns that have arisen, and determine if a change of scenery could help him regain his form as one of the league's brightest young superstars.