After the Memphis Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic on Sunday, many people, including myself, speculated that this could mean both Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. could be next. But ESPN's Tim Bontemps wrote, "The Grizzlies are not looking to deal either of their two remaining franchise cornerstones." This made it clear that Memphis has no plans to move on from Jackson or Morant.
If this wasn't enough confirmation, Morant took to X and said, "& I'm going to be in dat 901 (bear emoji)....source: ME!!" The number "901" has significance as it's the same as the Memphis area code. This further reinforces the fact that neither side is planning for a breakup.
This is a bit of a tough break for Pelicans fans who got their hopes up that the Bane trade could have opened the door to a Morant deal. As a duo of Ja and Zion Williamson would've created some of the most exciting basketball in NBA history.
It's not all bad though, as continuity is a good thing
Although a duo of Williamson and Morant would have been like nothing the Pelicans have ever had, it's not the end of the world. If the NBA has taught us anything over the last 5-10 years, continuity is an essential part of a winning recipe. Look at how things have worked out for the last couple of teams that have gone out and traded for a superstar.
The Phoenix Suns have been nothing but a bust since trading away their whole future for Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. Or how about the Clippers trading for Paul George? That was a great success, right? Wrong. So maybe it's a blessing Morant wasn't made available.
With all the off-court issues he's faced and the fact that his rookie year was the only season he's ever played 67 or more games, not being able to trade for Morant could be for the best. Running it back next season with the same core of Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray, Trey Murphy, and Herb Jones will have serious value in terms of on-court chemistry and success.
Coming into next season with Dejounte Murray still trusted to be this team's starting point guard when he returns from injury is a good call. It helps build loyalty and culture, which are important parts of building up any organization. After the way last season went with the nonstop injuries, the Pelicans front office may owe it to the players to let them run it back with as little change as possible.
Sometimes the best change is no change, which could finally pay off next season in New Orleans.