Marc Stein pours cold water on Pelicans’ star chasing trade hopes

During a recent appearance on Deals and Dunks on SiriusXM, NBA insider Marc Stein stated that Ja Morant wants to remain with the Memphis Grizzlies and doesn't desire to be traded by the franchise.

For several weeks, Morant and his potential trade status were the talk of the NBA, with it appearing from the outside that both sides were interested in a breakup. Rumors suggested several teams, including the Kings, Heat, Bucks, Raptors, and even the Pelicans, were named as suitors. However, now that Morant does not want to move to a new team, it may be time to end the Ja-to-New Orleans agenda.

For a bit here, I was very high on the Pelicans acquiring Morant, as it's rare you see a young player who, in his second and third seasons, was playing at a top-ten level become available on the trade market. That intrigue grew further with reports from Stein indicating that Memphis’ asking price centered around a young player and a future first-round pick.

Although the likelihood of a Morant to New Orleans move has taken a hit with this report, all hope isn't lost.

Why a Morant trade still can’t be fully ruled out

Even though it's now clear Morant wants to remain in Memphis, his future still very much lies in the hands of the Grizzlies front office. There is no indication that Memphis General Manager Zach Kleiman is now dedicated to Morant just because he had a great game Sunday against Orlando. Sure, Morant recorded 24 points, five rebounds, 13 assists, banged three of his four 3s, and finished the game with a 65.4 effective field goal percentage. But it's going to take a lot more than just one great game to mend all the damage Morant has caused.

Stein said that “the franchise does not revolve around Ja Morant anymore like it used to,” citing how Memphis backed its coaching staff during earlier internal issues that ultimately led to Morant’s suspension.

When factoring in his recent injury history, past off-court issues, and even a recent verbal exchange with teammate Vince Williams Jr. during a recent practice , it wouldn’t be surprising if Memphis still explored trade options before the deadline.

So while the chances of the Pelicans landing Morant appear slimmer than they were just days ago, the door hasn’t been completely shut. Morant may want to stay in Memphis, but unless the Grizzlies’ front office publicly commits to him long term, the situation remains worth monitoring.