“It’s different hearing my name in trade talks”: Ja Morant on Memphis Grizzlies trade rumors

Star guard Ja Morant’s future with the Memphis Grizzlies has become a major topic of speculation, with reports indicating that team management is now open to trading the former Rookie of the Year and is actively listening to offers.

The shift comes as the relationship between Morant and the franchise has reportedly deteriorated to the “point of no return,” despite the Grizzlies standing by him through a series of off-court issues, suspensions, and injury setbacks in recent seasons.

Morant recently acknowledged the emotional weight of hearing his name involved in trade talks but maintained that he is focused on managing his own response.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

“I think everybody should be worried about my reaction and not other people. I think my reaction is more important. Live with it,” Morant said.

According to Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports, the Miami Heat have emerged as a strong potential destination should Memphis decide to move Morant.

Ja Morant gets into a heated argument with his teammate Vince Williams Jr. 😳

(via @songulsoysall, h/t @ClutchPoints)pic.twitter.com/BoTMdaiHs8

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 14, 2026

“Miami has quickly emerged as an attractive option to Morant and his camp in recent days. The Heat have historically been regarded as one of the NBA’s most detail-oriented and structured organizations, a major aspect of development that appeals to Morant, who has missed 34 games due to various suspensions,” Iko reported.

“Morant also has a deep respect for Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, who also runs Team USA; Morant desires to represent his country in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Miami’s veteran presence is an additional selling point and something Morant craves,” he added.

Morant is earning $39.4 million this season and remains under contract with Memphis for two more years—set to make $42.2 million next season and $44.9 million in 2027–28 before becoming an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2028.

On the court, the 26-year-old is averaging 19.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists this season. However, he is shooting a career-low 40.2 percent from the field and 21.6 percent from three-point territory over 17 appearances and has been sidelined since January 2 due to a right calf contusion.

Morant has also remained in headlines for off-court incidents, including a clash with first-year head coach Tuomas Iisalo in November that led to a one-game suspension. Still, Morant dismissed any suggestion of deeper conflict.

“He is cool. I don’t think we have had too many ups and downs. That’s just you all, from the outside looking in, thinking that,” he concluded.

With tensions mounting and trade rumors intensifying, Memphis faces a defining organizational decision: rebuild around new leadership or recommit to a former franchise cornerstone. As discussions continue, Morant’s future—once seemingly intertwined with the Grizzlies—now appears more uncertain than ever, with Miami and other pursuing teams monitoring the situation closely.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.