Ja Morant Linked to Trade Rumors with Suns, Kings

The disgruntled Grizzlies star may be headed to the Pacific Division.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:25pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements of a basketball player, with sharp geometric planes in vibrant colors representing the uniforms of the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings, conceptually illustrating the trade rumors surrounding Ja Morant.Ja Morant's potential trade to the Suns or Kings could signal a new chapter for the disgruntled star as he seeks a fresh start in the Pacific Division.Memphis Today

Ja Morant, the two-time NBA All-Star, is expected to be traded by the Memphis Grizzlies this offseason. According to reports, the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings have emerged as serious suitors for the 26-year-old point guard, who is owed $87 million over the next two seasons.

Why it matters

Morant's departure from Memphis would mark the end of an era for the Grizzlies, who have been trending towards a rebuild after trading away key players like Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr. The Suns and Kings, meanwhile, are both in need of a true starting point guard to pair with their star players, making Morant an enticing target.

The details

Morant just completed a 2025-26 season marred by injuries and dysfunction, putting up 19.5 points and 8.1 assists per game in just 20 total appearances. The Grizzlies finished the season at a dismal 25-57, 13th in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Kings were even worse at 22-60, while the Suns fared better at 45-37 but still lack a true starting point guard.

  • Morant is expected to be traded by the Memphis Grizzlies this offseason.

The players

Ja Morant

A two-time NBA All-Star point guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, who is expected to be traded this offseason.

Tuomas Iisalo

The head coach of the Memphis Grizzlies, who had a reported conflict with Morant that led to the player's suspension.

Desmond Bane

A former Grizzlies player who was traded away as the team trends towards a rebuild.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

A former Grizzlies player who was traded away, drawing a sharp public rebuke from Morant.

Zach LaVine

A free agent guard for the Sacramento Kings, who finished the season at 22-60.

Russell Westbrook

A free agent guard for the Sacramento Kings, who finished the season at 22-60.

Devin Booker

The star player for the Phoenix Suns, who lack a true starting point guard.

Jalen Green

A guard for the Phoenix Suns who shares backcourt duties with a shoot-first mentality.

Collin Gillespie

A guard for the Phoenix Suns who shares backcourt duties as an overachieving role player.

Jordan Goodwin

A guard for the Phoenix Suns who shares backcourt duties with a defensive-minded approach.

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What they’re saying

“Ja Morant may be getting a shot at redemption in the Pacific Division.”

— Brandon 'Scoop B' Robinson, NBA Writer

What’s next

The Grizzlies will need to determine Morant's trade value and find a suitable deal with either the Suns or Kings this offseason.

The takeaway

Morant's potential trade from Memphis to the West Coast would mark a new chapter for the disgruntled star, who is seeking a fresh start after a tumultuous season. The Suns and Kings are both in need of a true point guard, making Morant an enticing target as he looks to revive his career.