Will the Rockets get involved in Ja Morant trade talks with Fred VanVleet?

As it is Houston Rockets get ready for a three-game road trip starting Wednesday night vs Memphis Grizzliesspeculation has resurfaced regarding a potential blockbuster trade involving the star guard I Morant. With Fred VanVleet is still out with a torn ACLsome questioned whether the Rockets might pursue Morant if the Grizzlies explored moving the 26-year-old.

In a recent report from Sam Amick of the Athletics, Houston was briefly related to the idea. While confirming that other teams like the Timberwolves and Kings could enter potential trade discussions if Morant is available, Amick said the Rockets are unlikely to pursue him, according to a team source.

“Minnesota Timberwolves, per team source, are one. Ditto for Sacramento Kings,” Amick wrote. “The Grizzlies’ next opponent, the Houston Rockets, need a point guard after losing Fred VanVleet to a torn ACL in the preseason, but they’re unlikely to pursue him, according to a team source.

Morant is currently in his seventh NBA season and remains under contract through the 2028–29 season. In seven games, he averaged 20.4 points, 7.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds and one steal per game while shooting a career-high 39.3% from the field and 13.9% from beyond the arc in 29.4 minutes per game.

Ja Morant’s strained relationship with the Grizzlies is fueling trade speculation ahead of the Rockets matchup

Tensions between Morant and Grizzlies coaching staff recently made headlines. In the team 117–112 NBA Cup loss to the Los Angeles LakersMorant shot just 3-for-14 from the field and finished with eight points, seven assists and one rebound. After the game, he expressed frustration when asked about the loss, instructing reporters to “go ask the coaching staff” and sarcastically suggesting they “probably don’t play me.”

Morant was suspended for one game after remarks and returned to a 114–106 loss to the Detroit Pistons. In his return, he recorded 18 points, 10 assists, five rebounds and a steal while shooting 5-for-16. Asked if his issues with the coaching staff had been resolved, Morant answered evasively: “Yeah. They (the coaching staff) told you all that, didn’t they?”

He also acknowledged his lack of enjoyment in his current situation, replying “no” when asked if he still felt his usual joyand added, “we’ll see,” when asked how he could get it back.

Despite the ongoing drama, any trade involving Morant would likely require a significant package. The Rockets, who are 4–2 and riding a three-game winning streak, have done well without VanVleet. Houston’s offense has thrived behind Alperen Sengun and Kevin Durant, and the organization appears committed to building around its current core.

Still, as the Rockets and Grizzlies prepare to face off Wednesday night at FedExForum at 8:00 p.m. ET, all eyes will be on Morant’s demeanor and performance — and whether Houston’s front office will begin to reconsider its stance if Memphis accepts offers.