Blockbuster Deal Alert: Grizzlies’ $197M Star on the Trading Block?
The Grizzlies’ early playoff exits have sparked trade rumors, and one of their biggest stars could be on the move!
With a whopping $197 million contract, will Memphis deal their All-Star talent to retool the roster or hold on for another run? The NBA landscape could be about to change dramatically!
It’s a big decision time for the Memphis Grizzlies.
The team seems to be going in a different direction after firing their long-time coach, Taylor Jenkins, before the playoffs, having their run in the playoffs end quickly, and the surprising choice to trade Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic.
But even with all of these changes, there is one big question that keeps coming up: what will happen next with Ja Morant?
Can Ja Morant Stay Healthy Enough to Lead the Grizzlies’ Rebuild?
The Grizzlies secured valuable pieces by extending Jaren Jackson Jr. and adding guard Ty Jerome from the Cleveland Cavaliers, moves designed to reduce the playmaking pressure on Morant
That being said, PFSN found one player on each NBA team who might be traded this season.
Who did they pick for Memphis? Morant and his crazy $197,230,450 deal. The logic is based on a harsh truth.
Even though Morant is clearly talented, his mobility problems have limited what the team can achieve.
A report says that his “electric play has been overshadowed by injuries and off-court problems.”
After hurting his hip against the Oklahoma City Thunder, he missed 33 games last season and important playoff games.
Those availability concerns extend beyond just injuries. Morant faced two separate NBA suspensions for displaying firearms on social media and received additional fines for mimicking gun gestures.
Add in hip and ankle injuries throughout the season, and the pattern becomes clear.
The postseason results tell the story of missed opportunities. “While still a marquee talent, Morant’s availability has impacted Memphis’ postseason hopes.
The Grizzlies have won just one playoff series in Morant’s six-year career, leading to significant personnel changes.”
What Do the Numbers Say About Morant’s Impact on Memphis?
The statistical evidence makes Memphis’s dilemma even more complicated. When Morant plays, everything changes for this franchise. The Grizzlies boast an impressive 178-129 record with their All-Star point guard leading the charge, compared to a disappointing 76-90 mark without him.
The offensive numbers paint an even clearer picture. With Morant orchestrating the attack, Memphis averages 115.8 points per game and maintains a .580 winning percentage.
Without him, the points dip to 111.8, and that winning percentage drops to .458, highlighting just how much the team’s fortunes rise and fall with their franchise player.
This past season exemplified both sides of the Morant equation. Despite appearing in only 50 games, the Grizzlies won 30 of those contests. Morant delivered his typical excellence when available, averaging 23.2 points and 7.3 assists, which align perfectly with his career standards.
His jaw-dropping athleticism remains unquestioned, as evidenced by this reverse dunk against the Boston Celtics that earned him the AT&T Dunk of the Year award.
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