Giannis Antetokounmpo has shown how publicly committing to a franchise does not always quiet trade speculation, and Ja Morant now finds himself in a similar spotlight.
The Memphis Grizzlies superstar has dominated recent trade chatter, even as he continues to insist his focus remains on staying in Memphis. After a key win over the Orlando Magic, Morant reiterated his loyalty to the Grizzlies and stressed that he wants to build something lasting with the organization. While those comments could slow the rumor mill, NBA insider Jake Fischer suggested the situation mirrors Antetokounmpo’s approach in Milwaukee, where strong public support for the team has existed alongside persistent leaguewide speculation about a possible move.
Jake Fischer believes Ja Morant and the Grizzlies both want a fresh start despite recent reports/comments of Ja wanting to stay in Memphis đź‘€
“He’s gonna have to keep playing. He really was holding out from my understanding. He’s kinda been nursing these injuries as long as he… https://t.co/1uRULBKTcd pic.twitter.com/dRx12ONKSS
— Heat Central (@HeatCulture13) January 20, 2026
“The Grizzlies want to move him, and I don’t think he wants to be there. I know he came out and said he’s loyal, but every indication I’ve gotten is that he wants to move on from this franchise, just like they do,” Fischer stated. “I think it’s a similar thing to Giannis not wanting to come out publicly and say it…I’ve gotten every indication that both Ja Morant and the Grizzlies would like to start over,” Fischer commented.
Fischer’s observation gains extra significance when looking at Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation with the Milwaukee Bucks. The superstar has repeatedly stated he wants to stay with the franchise, yet he has also emphasized that contending for a championship is his priority. That stance places pressure squarely on Milwaukee’s front office to make meaningful roster upgrades. If the team fails to act, Antetokounmpo’s commitment could be tested, despite his continued public loyalty.
How Ja Morant’s approach is different from Giannis Antetokounmpo
Oct 31, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) passes the ball as Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) defends during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
On the surface, Morant’s approach might seem similar, but the stakes differ greatly. The Bucks revolve almost entirely around Giannis Antetokounmpo, so trading him would push the franchise straight into a rebuild. The Grizzlies, on the other hand, have built enough depth to remain somewhat competitive even without Ja Morant, making his position less pivotal to their short-term outlook.
By contrast, the Grizzlies have shown a greater willingness to move Morant, despite his status as the team’s cornerstone. In that sense, his recent statements carry less weight than Giannis Antetokounmpo’s, whose presence continues to dominate trade discussions around the league.
Jan 19, 2022; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) loses the ball under pressure from Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during the second quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports (NBA News)
Realistically, moving the two-time All-Star could benefit the Grizzlies, allowing them to begin a rebuild. While reports suggest teams like the Bucks and Heat are unlikely to pursue Morant, potential suitors such as the Sacramento Kings could provide Memphis with valuable assets in a possible trade.