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Ja Morant Trade Market Stalls as Deadline Nears

Reluctance to surrender first-round picks reflects concern over a two-year commitment plus off-court baggage.

Overview

  • ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported scant traction for a Morant deal, noting league players are surprised by the lack of interest.
  • Less than three hours before the deadline, The Sporting News relayed that Miami is uninterested in including a first-round pick and prefers expiring contracts and second-round assets.
  • Jake Fischer said Memphis has dramatically reduced its asking price, with expectations of a Trae Young–type, lower-value return.
  • Fischer also reported the Bucks remain engaged with the Grizzlies, while the Kings have signaled they are unlikely to pursue Morant.
  • Memphis, which traded Jaren Jackson Jr. earlier in the week, is struggling to draw a single first-round pick for Morant, making a deal today unlikely without a late, significant offer.