Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has addressed speculation about his future amid trade rumors, asserting he is happy with the team, even after Jaren Jackson Jr. was dealt to the Utah Jazz and the franchise faced recent turmoil.
Morant, recovering from an injury, reflected on his current situation and the challenges surrounding the Grizzlies this season.
He insisted that he still finds joy in playing for Memphis, despite widespread speculation online about his next move.
“Why can’t I be? I’ve been happy this whole time,” Morant said, per Damichael Cole of Memphis Commercial Appeal, emphasizing his contentment, even as trade chatter and rumors swirl constantly on social media and sports news.
Addressing the Jackson trade, he admitted: “I wasn’t a fan of it, but it’s a business.”
Following the Jackson trade, many assumed Morant might be the next domino to be moved.
Morant makes his position clear
But the star guard remains with the Grizzlies, though it is unclear if that was due to the team’s wish to retain him or the absence of a suitable trade offer for the former number two overall pick.
Despite the drama off the court, Morant maintains a sense of loyalty, even referencing the Grizzlies logo tattooed on his back as a sign of commitment.
Morant expressed optimism about continuing his career in Memphis, where he has become the franchise cornerstone.
“I hope so,” Morant said, when was asked if he wants to still be a Memphis player in 2027. “You would know more than me.
“The internet is right there. Everything you’re asking me has been on the internet.”
Grizzlies slip to narrow loss vs Clippers
Despite a strong start, Memphis fell 123-120 to the Los Angeles Clippers, marking their third straight loss, as the Grizzlies struggled to maintain momentum in the final minutes despite Ty Jerome‘s 23 points and seven assists.
The Grizzlies built an early 19-point lead, but turnovers and missed opportunities allowed Los Angeles to climb back, showing Memphis‘ difficulty in closing out games while key rotation players remained sidelined.
Taylor Hendricks added 18 points and Cedric Coward scored 15.
But the team’s inability to convert crucial plays late in the game highlighted ongoing offensive struggles and exposed gaps in depth due to injuries.
Memphis held a narrow 118-117 lead with two minutes remaining, but free throws from Kawhi Leonard and Jordan Miller gave the Clippers a 121-118 edge.
Two two late Benedict Mathurin free throws sealed the loss as Memphis‘ final attempts fell short.
With six rotation players unavailable, including Morant, who missed his 20th game with a left elbow UCL sprain, Memphis has faced a grueling stretch.
Yet Morant‘s loyalty and optimism provide a stabilizing presence for the team and offers hope that the team can regroup and remain competitive as the playoffs approach.
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