Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant’s 2025–26 season continues to unravel. The All-Star guard has suffered a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow and is expected to miss at least three weeks, a setback that only adds fuel to the growing speculation about a potential split between Morant and the Grizzlies.
NBA Insider Offers Insights on Ja Morant’s Future
Just a few seasons ago, even suggesting that Morant should be traded or leave the Grizzlies was unthinkable. Not only is that now a reality, but the front office is actively exploring the idea of moving him.
Morant has not produced the scoring numbers fans are accustomed to, and his efficiency is down. Combined with ongoing off-court concerns and yet another injury setback, NBA insider Marc Stein believes the Grizzlies will be more open to fielding trade inquiries.
“My sense is that the Grizzlies remain more than open to trade inquiries for Morant … yet also still under pressure to get more in return for Memphis’ runaway most popular player than the two team-friendly contracts (CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert) that Atlanta settled for in the Young trade,” Stein wrote.
Even if no deal materializes before the trade deadline, Stein believes a separation between Morant and the franchise is likely inevitable given recent developments.
“What happens if no Morant deal materializes between now and 3 PM ET on Feb. 5? Great question. One suspects Morant will not forget that Grizzlies GM Zach Kleiman made him so available for trade during the season … after backing first-year head coach Tuomas Iisalo when player and coach clashed following a game on Halloween … and after Memphis made it clear that it would not be offering Morant a contract extension in the offseason once he was eligible to receive one,” Stein added.
Availability has long been a concern for Morant. In his first six NBA seasons, he has never played more than 70 games, and this year he has appeared in just 20 of Memphis’ 43 contests. With his efficiency trending downward and durability remaining an issue, league interest has reportedly been limited.
While Memphis may be forced to keep him beyond the deadline, barring an unexpected turn, all signs point toward an eventual split between the former franchise cornerstone and the Grizzlies.
Still, Morant is only 26 years old and remains immensely talented. He is averaging 19.5 points and 8.1 assists per game this season, numbers that suggest he can still return to elite form if he gets a fresh start.
