Ja Morant’s 2025-26 season is already off to a rough start. The Memphis Grizzlies star has been embroiled in multiple issues throughout his career, some of which have involved locker room behavior, off-court issues, and his association with the Grizzlies.
The most recent issue saw Morant suspended for his postgame behavior, further fueling the doubts surrounding Morant’s time in Memphis. And while multiple controversies haven’t put a damper on Morant’s future, multiple analysts and former players already seem to have formed an opinion about the young talent.
NBA Legend Carmelo Anthony Speaks on Memphis Grizzlies Ja Morant After Recent Suspension And Controversy
In a recent interview, NBA legend Carmelo Anthony addressed Morant, shedding light on how his behavior reflects on him. After all, some might say that Morant’s controversies are outweighing his actual performance on the court.
Anthony, whose career spanned over 19 seasons, issued a challenge for Morant. “Ja has to man up. … You’re being tested again to see if you’re gonna fold or withstand the test of time. The coaches are testing you, the organization is testing you. The city, the fans is testing you,” Anthony explained.
He even questioned Morant’s plans, wondering what he’ll do to make a comeback: “For me, how are you gonna bounce back? How are you gonna move on from this, how you gonna own up, man up, look yourself in the mirror, take ownership to your part and still go out there and do what you gotta do? … Put your big boy pants on, let’s go play basketball.”
Earlier this season, Morant — while talking about the Grizzlies’ loss — replied with a flippant ‘go ask the coaching staff.’ Reports also hinted at a falling out between Grizzlies head coach Tuomas Iisalo and Morant, with the former questioning the latter’s effort on behalf of the team.
The Grizzlies, describing Morant as ‘inappropriate and dismissive’, suspended him for one game. Previously, he has also been suspended for gun-related reasons.
Morant Doesn’t Have Good Trade Prospects
Morant’s multiple controversies and locker room problems could be a roadblock for any future trade. While he’s a promising player, teams might not be keen on signing Morant.
On ESPN’s NBA Today, Marc J. Spears addressed Morant’s possible trade, sayiing: “Four of the execs I talked to today say they really have no interest in trading for him. One said it was because it’s a combo of contract and off the court issues. Another suggested that if Ja is traded, it’ll probably be a problem star for a problem star.”
Having said that, Morant is currently signed to a five-year, $197,230,450 contract with the Grizzlies.
Morant, drafted in 2019, is averaging 20.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists while shooting 39.3% from the field goal this season.