Pelicans Emerge as Frontrunners to Acquire Ja Morant from Grizzlies

The New Orleans Pelicans are leading the pursuit to trade for Memphis Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant, according to NBA insider Sam Amick. The 26-year-old All-Star carries significant salary obligations and injury concerns that have complicated trade negotiations, though a change of scenery could revitalize his career after a tumultuous season in Memphis.

Trade Competition and Current Frontrunners

Multiple teams have expressed interest in acquiring Morant as the Grizzlies pursue a franchise reset. The Pelicans, Timberwolves, and Sacramento Kings have all been mentioned as potential suitors, but New Orleans holds the strongest position. Amick identified the Pelicans as the most likely destination, though he acknowledged Minnesota and Sacramento remain in contention. The Warriors, Heat, and Bucks have also been linked to Morant in trade discussions.

Salary and Contract Complications

Morant's financial obligations present a substantial barrier to any potential deal. He is owed $42.2 million for the upcoming season and $44.5 million for 2027–28 before becoming an unrestricted free agent. The Timberwolves face particular difficulty matching his salary requirements without sending out significant additional compensation. For the Pelicans, acquiring Morant would likely require trading starting point guard Dejounte Murray, who earns $32.8 million next season and holds a $30.8 million player option for 2027–28.

Morant's Memphis Exit and Recent Struggles

The guard has become increasingly unhappy in Memphis following conflicts with head coach Tuomas Iisalo and other coaching staff members. Morant appeared in only 20 games this season due to elbow and calf injuries, remaining sidelined after January 21. Over the past three seasons, he has managed just 79 combined appearances, a stark decline from his peak years when he earned All-Star selections in 2022 and 2023. The Grizzlies attempted to trade him ahead of the February deadline but found limited league interest given his health issues, behavioral concerns, and substantial salary.

The Potential New Orleans Scenario

A Morant-Zion Williamson pairing in New Orleans has generated enthusiasm among observers, given both players' exceptional athleticism and ability to impact play in the paint. The Pelicans endured a disappointing 26-56 season marked by coaching instability, creating organizational appetite for significant roster adjustments. Beyond Murray, several other New Orleans players have circulated in trade discussions. The Grizzlies hold draft picks at positions 3 and 16, with reported interest in moving back into the top 10 to select a point guard for their future.