Ja Morant
Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
This offseason the Minnesota Timberwolves largely opted to run back the same roster they made it to a second-straight Western Conference Finals with. Tim Connelly extended key pieces like Naz Reid and Julius Randle, but he didn’t find the playmaking facilitator that can take over for Mike Conley.
Out of the gate this season it was Donte DiVincenzo who took over as Chris Finch’s starting point guard. Before too long, it might by Ja Morant that assumes the role for Minnesota.
Ja Morant could change the MN Timberwolves rotation
There aren’t always top-tier options at the point guard position when exploring ways to improve a rotation. Ja Morant is among the most talented players in the league, and he would certainly level Minnesota up. The Athletic’s Sam Amick says there is serious steam for a move to take place.
As for where this is all headed, it’s worth remembering that Morant is still just 26 years old. At his best, he’s a player who was in the running for “face of the league” honors not too long ago. His baggage has been well chronicled, but there is still no shortage of teams that will continue monitoring his situation.
The Minnesota Timberwolves, per a team source, are one. Ditto for the Sacramento Kings. The Grizzlies’ next opponent, the Houston Rockets, need a point guard after losing Fred Van Vleet to a torn ACL in the preseason but, per a team source, are unlikely to pursue him. That’s just a small sample size of what might be out there, and not out there, if the Morant sweepstakes ever actually begin.
Sam Amick – The Athletic
Any motivation for the Grizzlies to move Morant starts with the reality that his baggage may have created an irreparable relationship with the team. Turning away from such a talented player is tough to do, but a change of scenery could be necessary.
Just because Memphis may be open to moving Morant doesn’t mean he will come cheaply. Minnesota will have to listen on guys like Randle, Terrence Shannon Jr., and Rob Dillingham. They may decide the freight is worth paying, but we won’t know until the sweepstakes actually starts.
This wouldn’t be the Minnesota Timberwolves first swing for a superstar alongside Anthony Edwards. There was interest in Kevin Durant this offseason. Ultimately the 15-time All-Star opted for the Houston Rockets instead.
Last season Morant averaged 23.2 points in 50 games. Through his first seven this season the Grizzlies guard is averaging 20.4 points per game while shooting just 39.3% from the field.
Minnesota’s line of thinking in acquiring Morant would be under the premise that his presence opens up the floor for Edwards, and allows him to work more off the ball. Any move would send shockwaves through the league.
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