The Memphis Grizzlies stunned the NBA world by sending Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic. Orlando had the NBA's 2nd-best defense last season, along with young stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, but lacked a knockdown shooter. Now, with Bane, they may finally have the missing piece.
The Grizzlies received a haul: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, the 16th overall pick, three future first-rounders (2026, 2028, 2030), and a 2029 pick swap. It was simply an offer they couldn’t pass up for a player who has never been an All-Star.
After this move, many are suggesting Memphis should consider blowing it up and trading both Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. With the Western Conference being more competitive than ever, this could be a chance for the Grizzlies to take a step back and reset for the future.
In the East, 48 wins might have secured a top-five seed. In the West? It was only good enough for the 8th seed and getting swept in round one.
If Morant does become available, Joe Dumars and the Pelicans should be at the front of the line. Ja already has a connection with Zion dating back to their youth, and together, they could take the Pelicans to new heights.
A Superstar Duo New Orleans Has Always Needed
Throughout their history, the Pelicans have never had a true, long-lasting superstar duo. Sure, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins were electric, but it only lasted 65 games. The Chris Paul and David West duo was fun, but never saw much playoff success.
However, a duo of Zion Williamson and Ja Morant has the potential to be one of the most exciting two-man games in NBA history and the best duo in franchise history.
Morant is coming off a good season despite dealing with hip and shoulder injuries. In his 50 appearances, he averaged 23.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game. His high-flying, highlight-heavy style alongside Zion would be box office. The addition of Morant could help boost the Pelicans' offense from a bottom-five finish like they had last season.
With the amount of draft capital the Pelicans have, they could make an offer the Grizzlies couldn't refuse. The Pels own pick No. 7 in this year's draft as well as seven more first-round picks from 2026-2031. A combination of pick 7, multiple future first-rounders, Dejounte Murray, and Jordan Hawkins would pique Memphis' interest.
If the Grizzlies are planning on blowing it up, no team can present an offer like New Orleans can. This would give them both the draft capital they want and impact players they could flip for more draft capital or young players.
Morant could be the co-star Zion has been waiting for. Both Morant and Williamson relentlessly pressure the rim, draw constant defensive attention, and can carry an offense. It’s also important to note that bringing in Morant would quickly address the Pelicans’ need for a starting point guard with Dejounte Murray injured to start the 2025-26 season.
With a roster of Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, Yves Missi, and CJ McCollum around Williamson and Morant, the Pelicans would become one of the NBA's scariest teams overnight.
Obviously, trading for Ja has its risks, as both he and Zion have dealt with their fair share of injuries and off-the-court problems. But as the saying goes, high risks come with high rewards, and with the Pelicans being a franchise burdened by mediocrity, this could be the move to finally make New Orleans true contenders.
Joe Dumars was hired to take the Pelicans to a level they've never reached. And if Morant hits the market, this could be the blockbuster swing that finally puts New Orleans on top.