Ja Morant Responds to Trade Rumors

Ja Morant silenced trade rumors in the best possible way Sunday night. Returning after missing six games due to a right calf injury, the Memphis Grizzlies star point guard led his team to a convincing 126-109 victory over the Orlando Magic at London’s O2 Arena.

A Brilliant Performance on His Return

The 26-year-old wasted no time reminding everyone of his exceptional talent. Morant posted 24 points, 13 assists and 5 rebounds, shooting an impressive 7/13 from the field and 3/4 from three-point range. Particularly dominant in the first half with 20 points and 10 assists, he controlled the game’s tempo and electrified the London crowd.

« Being able to just play basketball… it’s very therapeutic for me, » Morant said after the game. « I know what I’m capable of on the court and I was able to show it tonight. »

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This performance comes at a particular time, as ESPN had reported earlier this month that the Grizzlies were, for the first time, willing to listen to trade offers for their franchise player, prioritizing draft picks and young players in return.

« I’m a Very Loyal Guy »

Asked about his future after the game, Morant left no doubt about his intentions. « Everybody in here who knows me, knows I’m a very loyal guy, » he stated according to NBA insider Marc Stein. « I got a logo on my back, and that should tell you where I want to be, » he added, referring to the Grizzlies tattoo he has.

According to Kelly Iko of Yahoo Sports, Morant was « deeply disappointed » by these trade rumors, as he is « deeply invested in the city of Memphis and its fanbase » and has never requested a trade.

Ja Morant referred to the Memphis Grizzlies logo he has tattoo’d on his back when asked about his future with the team 🗣️🐻

« Everybody in here who knows me, knows I’m a very loyal guy. I got a logo on my back, and that should tell you where I want to be. »

Thoughts? 🤔

Via.… pic.twitter.com/QBKquWFkQB

— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) January 18, 2026

However, the market for Morant appears limited according to recent reports. Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst of ESPN indicated Friday that interest in the point guard was « lukewarm, » with some in the league believing there won’t be « much of a market. » The Miami Heat’s interest is reportedly « overstated, » while the Milwaukee Bucks could represent a potential destination.

With a contract that binds him to Memphis through 2027-2028 for nearly $40 million this season, Morant remains under the Grizzlies’ control. His Sunday performance and statements suggest that staying in Memphis could ultimately be the preferred outcome for all parties.

PLAYER PROFILE

Ja MORANT

Position(s): Point Guard

Height: 188 cm

Age: 26 years (08/10/1999)

Nationality:

2025-2026 Stats / NBA

PTS

19.3

#51

REB

3.3

#236

AST

7.8

#8