The future of Ja Morant remains one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Memphis Grizzlies’ offseason. While Memphis continues to gauge his market value, multiple outlets have explored hypothetical deals with teams that have been mentioned as possible destinations. The Ja Morant trade proposals reveal how difficult it may be for Memphis to maximize its return.
The challenge is that while Morant’s talent is undeniable, his injuries, contract and off-court concerns have complicated his trade value. Several Ja Morant trade proposals attempted to solve that puzzle, but not all offers are created equal.
Let’s grade three of the most notable options in the West.
Grading the Most Intriguing Ja Morant Trade Proposals in the West
Sacramento’s Package Gives Memphis Flexibility
The Sacramento Kings were reportedly interested in Morant at the trade deadline and appear to still be in the running due to their search for star power. Bleacher Report released several Ja Morant trade proposals, including one that would send Morant to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for DeMar DeRozan, De’Andre Hunter and a protected 2030 first-round pick (via Minnesota; top-10 protected).
From Memphis’ perspective, this proposal is centered on creating financial flexibility. DeRozan and Hunter have expiring contracts, who both could potentially become useful veteran contributors and valuable trade assets. The first-round pick adds some long-term value, but the protections significantly limit its upside.
However, given reports that Morant’s trade value is low around the league, avoiding a scenario where Memphis has to attach draft compensation would be viewed as a win. Avoiding taking on long-term money and officially closing the book on the Morant era without sacrificing additional assets is a plus, too.
When trading a player of Morant’s caliber, not receiving a star in return or a plethora of picks could be deflating. But Memphis is in a tough position for that kind of return, so not doing anything to diminish their young core is the priority.
Grade: B-
Minnesota Offers Immediate Talent and Trade Flexibility
One of the more interesting Ja Morant trade proposals came from ESPN, involving the Minnesota Timberwolves sending Julius Randle, Terrence Shannon Jr. and Joan Beringer to Memphis for him. Minnesota has been an interesting team, as they want to take the next step toward competing with the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder.
For Memphis, this proposal arguably gives them one of their most sought-after values: young players. Shannon Jr. is a 6’6″ wing who can create his own shot and defend. Pairing him with Cedric Coward would be a huge win. Beringer is a 6’11” big man who was selected in the first round last season. The Grizzlies need additional bigs to play behind Zach Edey, and Beringer would give them a young option who didn’t get much playing time on a competitive Timberwolves team during his rookie season.
With the Grizzlies appearing likely to select a power forward with the third pick in the draft, Julius Randle would likely be rerouted to another team. With Memphis’ insistence on adding draft picks, Randle could be dealt either as an extended part of this deal or a separate move to a contender who could use his services.
Adding young talent is the goal, and Memphis would accomplish that in this trade.
Grade: B
Phoenix’s Deal May Be the Most Intriguing Long-Term Bet
Speaking of adding a lengthy wing to team with Coward, the strongest of these Ja Morant trade proposals may be the one involving the Phoenix Suns. Bleacher Report proposed a straightforward swap of Jalen Green for Morant. While it is a simple deal, this would give Memphis a young player who has already produced as a high-level scorer.
Green has flaws with inconsistent offensive efficiency and questionable defensive effort. However, he fits the timeline of the young Grizzlies, has playoff experience, and is a three-level scorer. He also has two years remaining on his contract and would save Memphis some money in the interim as a lower salary than Morant’s.
The Grizzlies are in the early stages of building a new core around players like Coward, Edey, and the third overall pick to be determined in a couple of weeks. Adding another young, high-upside scorer aligns with that timeline, with an opportunity to pivot if it doesn’t work out.
Grade: B+
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