The New Orleans Pelicans and Minnesota Timberwolves have emerged as teams with interest in trading for Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant. According to a recent report, the Grizzlies are expected to re-engage in trade talks this offseason after a failed attempt last year.
The Pelicans are considered a strong suitor for Morant. In a recent television appearance, Sam Amick of The Athletic said that the Pelicans are “probably the frontrunner to trade for Morant.” A potential deal would almost certainly require New Orleans to move veteran guard Dejounte Murray to match salaries. Morant is set to make $42.2 million this season, a significant contract for any team to absorb. His explosive ability to attack the paint and orchestrate a pick-and-roll offense makes him a coveted, if expensive, asset.
Minnesota has also been linked to Morant since last season, but the financial mechanics of a trade present a major obstacle. The Timberwolves would find it difficult to construct a deal that works under the salary cap without dismantling key parts of their roster. For Memphis, moving on from Morant would signal a clear organizational reset, allowing the front office to build around a new core. The Grizzlies’ willingness to trade him before last season’s deadline indicates their readiness to listen to offers now that the season has concluded for the teams involved.
