The trade rumors surrounding Memphis Grizzlies star guard Ja Morant are running rampant.
Morant, 26, is under contract through the 2027-28 season, which gives the Grizzlies control over the potential trade process. At this point, it’s not a matter of if but when they deal the former No. 2 overall pick.
Once viewed as the franchise cornerstone, Morant is now on the heels of finding a new home. The question on everyone’s mind when it comes to Morant is where he will end up.
Many NBA teams have been linked to the two-time All-Star, including the lowly Sacramento Kings. The Kings are in desperate need of a true point guard. While they have an overflow of guards, none of them are considered “true” point guards, and they may trade most of their current guards as the trade deadline approaches.
While the Kings and their general manager, Scott Perry, have been vocal on the need for a point guard, they are not willing to give up a ton, specifically when it comes to Morant. Sam Amick and The Athletic NBA Staff shared that the Kings are not willing to involve any significant draft capital for the South Carolina native.
“To cite another alleged suitor, team sources say the Sacramento Kings would only do a Morant deal if it didn't involve giving the Grizzlies any significant draft capital. That's … sort of a big obstacle. What's more, it appears the Kings - who insist they're not currently pursuing Morant - don't see him as a good fit for their current timeline. (If you haven't noticed, that roster needs a whole lot of work.)”
Kings' Stance on Ja Morant Trade Hinges on Memphis' Asking Price
NBA insider Marc Stein recently shared that the Kings would make a move for Morant if Memphis is prepared to accept a specific trade package around veteran players and draft capital.
“The Kings, meanwhile, are generally painted as a team that does not intend to pursue Morant. However … I must confess that some chatter to the contrary over the weekend has circulated suggesting that Sacramento’s position could change if Memphis was prepared to accept a package headlined by DeMar DeRozan, Devin Carter and some level of draft capital,” Stein wrote.
While the Kings may love to get their hands on Morant, they are unwilling to go all-in for him.
Other teams reported in on Morant are the New Orleans Pelicans, Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors and the Milwaukee Bucks.
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