The Ja Morant era in Memphis has concluded, as the Grizzlies traded the former star guard to the Portland Trail Blazers. In exchange, Memphis received forwards Jerami Grant and Chris Murray. Morant, drafted second overall in 2019, initially excelled, winning Rookie of the Year. However, injuries and off-court issues hindered his performance in recent years, including playing just 20 games last season and averaging a career-low in assists.
Morant faced multiple suspensions, including a 25-game ban for brandishing a gun publicly, leading to concerns about his conduct. He now joins a Trail Blazers team that recently finished 42-40, alongside stars like Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard.
The Grizzlies are focusing on rebuilding after also parting ways with other key players like Jaren Jackson Jr. They selected Cameron Boozer with the third overall pick in the 2023 draft, marking a shift for the franchise as they aim to move on from recent disappointments. Grant averaged 18.6 points last season and has a contract extending to 2028, while Murray has the potential for a restricted free agency next offseason.
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