The Memphis Grizzlies have seen some significant changes to their core this offseason. Although they re-signed Jaren Jackson Jr., ensuring that their defensive anchor remains with the team, the Grizzlies parted ways with Desmond Bane, sending their star shooting guard to the Orlando Magic.
The outcome of this trade sparked several rumors about the future of key players on their roster, including two-time All-Star Ja Morant. Given Morant's history of injury and controversy, Memphis could consider replacing him with another star-caliber player, potentially rebuilding its core from the ground up.
On this note, Sports Illustrated's Duke Deming presented an interesting trade proposal rooted in Morant's status as an injury-prone star. Here's Deming's trade idea:
Proposed Trade Details
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Cam Thomas, Keon Johnson, 2026 first-round pick
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Ja Morant
The notion of such a trade already seems controversial. While it has its flaws, which we will address later on, we explore the immediate impact of this trade on the two teams involved.
For the Grizzlies, parting ways with Morant would be met with a lot of criticism, both in the media and from the fan base. The All-Star guard is effectively the heart and soul of Memphis, the embodiment of the team's identity.
However, Deming's rationale isn't flawed. Morant's reputation and infamy precede him, and his off-court antics have led to prolonged absences, harming the team's performance.
By trading the two-time All-Star, the Grizzlies would be embracing a rebuild with Jackson Jr. as the centerpiece. By pairing the star big man with Cam Thomas and Keon Johnson, while also acquiring a valuable 2026 first-round pick, Memphis would attempt to kickstart its rebuild.
Acquiring Thomas and Johnson could be beneficial for Memphis. Thomas has been in extended negotiations with the Brooklyn Nets. Given the lowball offers from the team, Thomas has only grown frustrated with the franchise, especially since he considers himself to be worth significantly more than the current price tag they've placed on him.
Criticisms about Thomas have painted him as a "ball hog", but he is truly an exceptional scoring talent. With a knack for creating opportunities out of nothing, the 23-year-old is a gifted offensive player. In just 25 appearances last season, he posted an average of 24.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, while shooting 43.8% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range.
A potential move to the Grizzlies would be preferred by the guard, who appears to be eager to leave Brooklyn at this stage in the offseason. In Memphis, Thomas would undoubtedly be among the top scoring options for the team. But due to his limitations as a playmaker, the team would need a reliable floor general in the starting lineup.
Along with Thomas, the Grizzlies would also acquire Keon Johnson. At 6'5", Johnson has displayed impressive athleticism, agility, and defensive instincts. These traits have positioned him as a valuable prospect on perimeter defense.
Last season saw Johnson embrace a larger role with the team, as he entered the rotation. While playing 24.4 minutes per game, he notched an average of 10.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game.
Although his shooting percentages were inconsistent, with 38.9% from the field and 31.4% from beyond the arc, his defensive upside could make him a valuable addition on a rebuilding team.
When considering what they are giving up, the Grizzlies don't gain much from this deal. However, the outlook with the 2026 first-rounder could be promising if Memphis receives a lottery pick.
On the other hand, this trade has significant connotations for the Brooklyn Nets. The addition of Ja Morant would effectively usher in a new era for the Nets. With a star finally joining the team, Brooklyn could see a resurgence as a superpower in the East in due time.
Morant would be joining a talented but inexperienced Nets team. Although players like Michael Porter Jr. and Nic Claxton could share instant chemistry with the two-time All-Star, the rest of the roster may need to be enhanced to make the team competitive.
Regardless, with a scoring force like Porter Jr. and an athletic center like Claxton by his side, Morant could bring the best out of this core.
The 26-year-old is one of the most talented guards in the league. His incredible athleticism and offensive ability are only complemented by his eccentric personality. As a uniquely gifted floor general, Morant is undoubtedly one of the best point guards in the NBA today.
Last season, the guard notched an average of 23.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game, while shooting 45.4% from the field and 30.9% from three-point range.
Morant's fierce competitiveness could resonate with Brooklyn's fan base and big-market energy. While it would take some time for the Nets to transform into a playoff team in the East, acquiring the 26-year-old would almost instantly ensure their chances of securing a playoff berth.
In a less competitive East, Morant would shine brighter than ever. While his health and availability will remain a concern, the Nets would benefit from this move in the greater scheme of things.
Memphis Would Not Do This Trade
Although Deming's justification for the trade was sensible, the Memphis Grizzlies would not do this trade, especially for such a package. Although Thomas and Johnson have upside, they simply do not come close to matching the value of a superstar like Morant.
What Morant brings to the table for the Grizzlies is virtually irreplaceable. Given his value to the organization and the fan base, Memphis should have faith in his ability to deliver when he is on the floor.
Instead, the Grizzlies are likely to build around the core of Morant and Jackson Jr., with Zach Edey expected to play a significant role moving forward.
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