Memphis Grizzlies’ standout guard Ja Morant has ended his relationship with Lift Sports Management, according to Damichael Cole of The Memphis Commercial Appeal. Morant had signed with Lift, led by former NBA player Mike Miller, in April 2024.
The two-time All-Star is currently under a significant contract, having agreed to a five-year, $197 million extension with Memphis in 2022. His salary is set at $39.4 million for the upcoming season, increasing to $42.2 million in 2026-27, and $44.8 million in the final contract year, 2027-28.
Calls for Brooklyn Nets to Pursue Morant Through Trade
Despite Morant’s strong connection with the Grizzlies remaining intact, NBA analysts are advocating for a move that could shake up the league. Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report has suggested that the Brooklyn Nets should explore acquiring Morant during the offseason.
The Nets’ glut of cap space gives them opportunities to chase almost anyone, but Morant’s sinking value might make him a bargain acquisition,
Hughes wrote, highlighting Morant’s potential value given his current situation.
Remember, Morant finished seventh in MVP voting in 2021-22 and 12th in 2022-23. The Nets lack a cornerstone and anything resembling a high-end starter at the point. Morant could easily reestablish himself as both of those and then some.
Performance and Career Highlights of Ja Morant
This past season, Morant played in 50 games for the Grizzlies, averaging 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. His shooting percentages included 45.4% from the field, 30.9% from beyond the arc, and 82.4% from the free-throw line. Unfortunately, Morant missed Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to an injury sustained in the previous game, and the Thunder swept the series.
Morant was selected second overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by Memphis and has compiled career averages of 22.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. Notably, his contract does not include a no-trade clause, which could facilitate potential trade negotiations.
Implications of a Potential Trade for the Nets and Morant
The Nets currently face challenges securing a true franchise cornerstone and lack a dominant guard to lead their backcourt. Acquiring Morant, who remains only 25 years old with three years left on his contract, could offer a valuable opportunity to strengthen the team’s foundation. His market value may have declined recently, but the combination of his youth, skill, and contract length presents a compelling buy-low scenario.
Should Brooklyn act on this recommendation, it could signal a transformative shift for the franchise, possibly redefining their competitive trajectory in upcoming seasons.