In a shocking turn of events, Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant has officially requested a trade from the franchise, according to multiple sources close to the situation. The 25-year-old former All-Star, known for his electrifying athleticism and high-flying style, has informed the Grizzlies’ front office of his desire to move on and seek a fresh start elsewhere in the NBA. The news has sent ripples across the league, as Morant is not only one of the most talented point guards in basketball but also one of the most marketable young stars in the game today.
The trade request comes after a tumultuous 2023–24 season for both Morant and the Grizzlies organization. Despite flashes of brilliance when healthy, Morant missed a significant portion of the season due to both injuries and off-court issues, including multiple suspensions that disrupted team chemistry and performance. Memphis, who had entered the season with high expectations, failed to make the playoffs, finishing well outside the postseason picture and raising questions about the team’s long-term direction.
Morant’s decision, according to those close to him, is driven by a combination of personal and professional factors. While he remains appreciative of the opportunity Memphis gave him as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, sources say he believes a new environment is necessary for his growth—on and off the court. The desire to compete for a championship in the near future and to move to a bigger market with more media exposure and endorsement opportunities may also be playing a role in his thinking.
From a basketball perspective, Ja Morant has already proven he’s among the league’s elite talents. In his first four full seasons, he earned Rookie of the Year honors, made two All-Star teams, and helped lead the Grizzlies to the playoffs multiple times, including a trip to the Western Conference Semifinals in 2022. His explosive scoring, dazzling playmaking, and fearlessness have made him the face of the franchise and a favorite among fans. At his best, he is a walking highlight reel capable of changing the course of a game in mere moments.
However, Morant’s career has not been without controversy. Over the past two seasons, he has faced multiple suspensions for conduct detrimental to the league, most notably for brandishing a firearm in social media videos on two separate occasions. These incidents led to significant criticism and concern about his maturity and decision-making. Despite those issues, Morant has continued to receive support from his teammates and the organization, and had recently stated his commitment to “growing and learning.”
Still, it now appears that the relationship between player and franchise has reached an inflection point. With Morant officially requesting a trade, the Grizzlies are suddenly facing one of the most pivotal moments in franchise history. The team will have to decide whether to try to convince their superstar to reconsider or begin fielding offers from interested teams—of which there will undoubtedly be many.
Given Morant’s talent and age, the trade market is expected to be robust. Several teams that are just a piece away from championship contention—such as the Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, New York Knicks, and Chicago Bulls—are already being speculated as potential landing spots. Rebuilding teams with cap space and draft assets, like the San Antonio Spurs or Orlando Magic, could also be dark horse contenders, especially if they believe they can build around him long-term.
Memphis, for their part, will likely demand a massive return for Morant—possibly a combination of young players, multiple first-round picks, and a high-level starter. The Grizzlies still have a strong core in players like Jaren Jackson Jr., Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart, and could choose to retool rather than enter a full rebuild. However, losing Morant would undoubtedly change the identity and ceiling of the team in the immediate future.
Public reaction to Morant’s request has been swift and mixed. Some fans express disappointment and frustration, especially after standing by him through recent controversies. Others, however, are supportive, recognizing the immense pressure he’s faced and the possibility that a new setting could be beneficial for all parties.
As the NBA offseason approaches, Morant’s trade request now becomes the league’s biggest storyline. Teams will jockey to position themselves for a chance to land the explosive guard, while the Grizzlies must weigh their options and prepare for a potentially transformative decision. Whether a trade happens quickly or drags into the regular season remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Ja Morant’s future is no longer in Memphis.
