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Ja Morant–Grizzlies Rift Intensifies as Trade Chatter Swells, Team Urges Patience

Memphis signals a wait-and-see approach after a suspension stemming from a clash with new coach Tuomas Iisalo.

Overview

  • The Grizzlies suspended Morant one game for conduct detrimental to the team following a heated exchange with first-year coach Tuomas Iisalo, and Morant later said he no longer feels the same joy for basketball.
  • Reporting details Morant’s skepticism of Iisalo’s short-shift, mass-substitution approach, with accounts of a tense locker-room confrontation after a loss to the Lakers.
  • Morant’s early-season efficiency has slipped to career lows, with ESPN noting 38.3% shooting from the field and 14% from three through eight games.
  • League insiders say Memphis is monitoring interest rather than rushing a deal, with teams such as the Timberwolves, Kings and Heat tracking the situation.
  • Media and pundits have floated speculative packages — including Miami concepts built around Tyler Herro and multi-team scenarios for Minnesota — while some insiders add that a Morant move could prompt Memphis to consider offers for Jaren Jackson Jr.