Ja Morant Injury: Grizzlies Eye Big Trade

Only several days earlier, the key buzz around the Memphis Grizzlies was associated with their role. As potential buyers before the start of the current NBA trade deadline. The team’s trajectory had been on the rise. While driven by the much-needed return of their star point guard despite Ja Morant’ injury concerns.

His return has made a huge turnaround in the team’s fortunes following what he demonstrated on the floor as a leader and a creative playmaker. It was thought that Morant’s arrival would improve team morale, performance, and rankings, complementing them as a legitimate playoff team.

Prospective onlookers expecting the Grizzlies to go all out for a competitive run this season. However, maybe adding some pieces via trades takes solace in his skill set. The Grizzlies have intermittent periods of glimpsing that they can be a force in the West Conference. Even amid Ja Morant injury, with Desmond Bane and Jaren Jackson Jr.

They both have stepped up. But all of a sudden, Memphis is again called into question. Morant is currently listed as out because of injury. That team was built to win around Morant as the focal point, and without him. The Grizzlies will have a tough time for the remainder of the season in a packed Western Conference.

Shifting Trade Deadline Strategies

Such injury has not only affected the flow of the game but also the strategy before the trade deadline consideration. Now, Memphis could be compelled to pivot from their initial plans. Instead of adding pieces to support a playoff run. They may look to explore trade options to fill the temporary void left by Morant’s absence.

The Grizzlies’ management might even consider acquiring a seasoned player. Who can bring experience and stability, offsetting the challenges that come with a young roster? Instead, they could be searching for stopgap measures to keep the playoffs a possibility. While presenting themselves as a trade deadline buyer of talent despite such a loss.

Ja Morant won’t return for the remainder of the season due to his injury and subsequent shoulder surgery. The Memphis Grizzlies may reconsider their strategies for this year’s trade deadline. The team might shift focus from a playoff drive to rebuilding with an eye on the next season.

It is the change of priorities that creates new opportunities for Memphis. Particularly, taking into account that they are not rich in trading chips aside from their top names. However, one player who could attract interest from contending teams is sharpshooting guard Luke Kennard. According to Evan Sidery of Substack and Forbes Sports.

Kennard’s Trade Value Rises

Kennard could be a coveted addition for teams seeking a reliable perimeter shooter. While making him one of the more realistic trade pieces the Grizzlies could consider moving. Kennard’s value lies in his exceptional accuracy from beyond the arc. A skill that has continued to impress despite some interruptions due to minor injuries this season.

Since joining Memphis at last season’s trade deadline, Kennard has shot an impressive 49% from three-point range. His shooting has remained consistently elite, and he led the entire league in three-point shooting percentage over the last two seasons. While underscoring his reputation as one of the NBA’s most efficient shooters a valuable asset amid the setback of the Ja Morant injury.

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Such a high level of marksmanship makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster its outside shooting. If the Grizzlies were to explore trading Kennard, they would likely seek a partner willing to take on his $14.8 million option for the 2024-25 season. Kennard’s salary may deter some suitors. But contenders looking for a reliable scorer off the bench or a steady catch-and-shoot threat might find him worth the investment.

The Grizzlies themselves also have the option to retain Kennard and pick up the option themselves. Especially given how well he complements their young core players in light of Ja Morant injury. Kennard’s chemistry with Memphis’ primary rotation makes him a valuable piece if they aim to reload and regroup for next season.

Key Decision on Kennard

In essence, the Grizzlies face a key decision regarding Kennard at this deadline. Moving him could yield future assets or provide flexibility. But keeping him would ensure they maintain a top-tier shooter to pair with Morant, Bane, and Jackson in a fully healthy lineup next year. This crossroads presents Memphis with a unique opportunity to shape the future of its roster.

Whether they choose to invest in the short-term or prepare for a robust return in the following season. The decision Memphis ultimately makes with Luke Kennard and several other intriguing role players. Their roster will largely depend on the level of interest they receive from around the league.

As well as the potential return they could secure in any trade. For the Grizzlies, every move at this stage will be carefully evaluated not only for its immediate impact. But also for how it positions the team to build a more competitive roster around Ja Morant. When he makes his return next season.

While Kennard’s elite shooting makes him a compelling asset. Especially for playoff-bound teams looking to boost their perimeter scoring, the Grizzlies must also consider whether dealing him aligns with their larger strategy. Kennard has been a strong fit alongside Memphis’ core players, bringing consistent three-point shooting.

Assessing Trade Value Now

Moreover experience to an otherwise young team. However, given Morant will be out for the season the Grizzlies may not be in playoff contention. It may be the opportune moment to see how teams feel about Kennard and other fourth options who could possibly perform at a high level in a bench role.

Of course, there are other Grizzlies’ rotation players who would seem to be rather appealing to teams seeking reinforcements. Every one of these players has a particular supply of skills that could suit the demand of a contending team. This extra asset can create several trade opportunities for Memphis to get new future draft picks.

While young talents, or players associated with good chemistry with Morant upon his comeback. For Memphis, it is most probable that the focus will now be placed on establishing a strong roster base, signing players that can develop with the young core. While at the same time strengthening the team with players who are to provide a competitive edge in the future.

Kennard’s Future in Balance

If there is huge interest from other clubs in Kennard, then the Grizzlies may be willing to let him go in exchange for long-term assets. But if the interest level is low or if the offers do not take care of Memphis’ needs. It is always back to Kennard and probably accepting his option for the next season, 2024-25.

That could be a valuable trait, allowing Memphis to add more shooting once Morant returns to the floor, spacing the floor himself at a solid clip this year. In the end, Memphis still has the option either to reassemble their roster for a better performance next year or to use the current trade attention.

To acquire more valuable players in their reconstruction process. Each move will demonstrate how determined they are to put together a team that can get the most out of Morant. While only using him in playoff-level games for the time being. guard returns to the floor.