Stein's Latest: Morant, W. Green, Borrego, Vucevic, Irving, Davis

Stein's Latest NBA Insights: Morant, W. Green, Borrego, Vucevic, Irving, Davis

Questions about Ja Morant's future with the Memphis Grizzlies arose during the summer. Trade speculation intensified after Morant’s confrontation with the coaching staff and his subsequent one-game suspension. However, the possibility of the Grizzlies trading Morant is not new, writes Marc Stein of The Stein Line in his latest Substack column (subscription required).

Rival teams have been closely watching Morant’s situation since the summer when the Grizzlies gave a significant contract extension to Jaren Jackson Jr. but did not offer Morant a similar deal. The team adjusted salary commitments to secure Jackson’s new contract, reportedly worth $240 million over five years.

Morant's Contract and Expectations

Morant still has two years left on his current contract, valued at over $87 million after this season. At a recent media day, general manager Zach Kleiman described this year as "a big season for Ja," adding:

“I think it is fair to say as we continue to build this team, to be able to achieve a high-end outcome, we need Ja to be a consistent All-NBA-caliber player.”

Kleiman has also publicly supported head coach Tuomas Iisalo in the current dispute involving Morant.

Additional League Insights

Stein shares further inside information regarding other teams and players. He cautions that the Dallas Mavericks bringing Kyrie Irving back too soon could lead to problems. Irving’s greatest asset is his quickness, which requires full health. Injured players need sufficient recovery time to regain their speed and agility.

Summary

Morant's role with the Grizzlies remains uncertain amid internal conflict and contract considerations, while Irving's health and return timeline pose risks for the Mavericks.

Author’s Summary

Ja Morant’s future with the Grizzlies is clouded by contract and conflict issues, while Kyrie Irving’s early return to play threatens his performance and team stability.

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Hoops Rumors Hoops Rumors — 2025-11-04

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