Ja Morant’s potential return this season is getting a cryptic update
Uncertainty still surrounds the status I Morant after the NBA trade deadline passed with The Memphis Grizzlies decide to keep their franchise amid months of speculation. On Friday, CEO Zach Kleiman offered some clarity about whether Morant would return this season, giving a measured response that underscored the medical nature of the decision.
Drew Hill of The Daily Memphian shared Kleiman’s comments on X after the deadline.
“Kleiman is under pressure if he will play this season,” Hill wrote. “It’s a medical decision.”
Morant hasn’t appeared in a game since late January later suffered a sprained UCL in his left elbow. The Grizzlies previously announced the 25-year-old would be sidelined for at least three weeks, with a re-evaluation planned as his recovery progresses. While the team remains optimistic that Morant will make a full recovery, his timeline remains uncertain as Memphis turns to a longer-term prospect.
Ja Morant’s injury clouds the Grizzlies’ roster reset
Morant appeared in 20 games this season before the injury, averaging 19.5 points, 8.1 assists, 3.5 rebounds and a steal per game while shooting 41 percent from the field. His 23.5 percent from three-point range was a career low, though he shot a career-high 89.7 percent from his free throws. His scoring average was also his lowest since 2020-21, reflecting a year marred by injuries and inconsistency.
The ambiguity surrounding Morant’s return comes as Memphis embraces a significant roster reset. ahead of schedule The Grizzlies traded Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz in a multi-player deal that netted three future first-round picks along with Walter Clayton Jr., Kyle Anderson, Taylor Hendricks and George Niang. John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. were also involved in the transaction.
Memphis enters Friday night at 20-29, ranked 11th in the Western Conference standings. The Grizzlies are scheduled to visit the Portland Trail Blazers (23-28) at 10:00 PM ET as they continue to navigate a season defined by transition and unanswered questions surrounding their star guard.
2026-02-06 18:01:00
