The Memphis Grizzlies and Ja Morant have been at a crossroads for quite some time now, with Morant being at the center of trade rumors for the team.
However, the Grizzlies have been unable to find a trade partner for Morant, as he has two years and over $80 million left on his current deal. In addition to that, Morant has not been available over the last couple seasons, thanks to injuries and suspensions.
All of this means that Memphis will likely have to attach draft capital to Morant to move him, something that they are not willing to do, but may be forced to if they want to re-coup any value. There is one landing spot for Morant that could emerge and allow for the Grizzlies to move on.
The Suns make a lot of sense as a landing spot for Ja Morant
Phoenix has been looking for a real solution at point guard since trading Chris Paul away, as it seems Devin Booker is much more comfortable as the two guard. They experimented with Jalen Green at that spot in the few games he played, but the results were far too inconsistent.
Morant would fit in with this Suns team. He has enough playmaking to make life easier for Booker and his ability to get downhill and finish at the time is an element that Phoenix is missing.
Morant would also be reunited with former teammate Dillon Brooks. The two are still good friends and that would help get Morant integrated into the team a little quicker.
The ideal scenario for the Suns would be swapping Jalen Green and a pick for Morant and a pick, allowing for the Grizzlies to move on and get a player at a much lower cap number.
Phoenix isn’t taking a ton of risk here either, as Green likely isn’t in their long-term plans and doesn’t have the upside that Morant does. Morant is also a true point guard and if he can put his antics behind him and stay healthy, it could turn out to be a huge steal for the Suns.
Morant has gone from a box-office level player to a buy-low candidate. He will have the chance to rebuild his value and status as a player with a fresh start. Phoenix seems to be on the right track with their mini-reset and have stockpiled flexibility in both roster construction and draft capital to make a deal happen.
If it doesn’t work out this season, Morant will be on an expiring contract prior to the 27-28 season, so the Suns could cut their losses then if they choose. Either way, they should at least try to make it work
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