Morant's trade value surpasses Young's! Kings' offer revealed: DeRozan, Carter plus draft picks

On January 12th Beijing time, reporter Stein reported that unless the Memphis Grizzlies accept an offer involving DeRozan, Devon Carter, and draft picks, the Sacramento Kings are not expected to chase Ja Morant.

Stein stated: “The Kings have widely been considered disinterested in pursuing Morant. However… I must admit, over the weekend some contrary rumors emerged suggesting that if the Grizzlies are willing to accept a package centered on DeRozan and Devon Carter plus certain draft assets, Sacramento’s stance might shift.”

Grizzlies reporter D. Michael Cole shared that Jaren Jackson Jr. responded to the news of Morant being put on the trade block. Speaking about Morant, Jackson said, “I feel for him. He’s my brother… No matter what, since he came here, he has completely changed my life.”

D. Michael Cole also mentioned that Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins clarified Morant’s recent absence is unrelated to trade rumors. Jenkins explicitly said about Morant’s absence: “It’s purely due to injury.”

The Athletic reported that within the league, it is widely believed that trading Morant could yield the Grizzlies a higher return than the Hawks did trading Trae Young.Previously, the Hawks traded Trae Young and only received Kris Porter and McCollum, without any draft picks. However, this might require the Grizzlies to accept a long-term contract in exchange, but compared to the Hawks, the Grizzlies seem more willing to accept this type of deal.

Insider Fischer stated that the Grizzlies do not have unrealistic expectations for the trade return. He confirmed the team hopes to acquire young players and draft assets through the trade but does not expect to receive a haul comparable to the rich return they got when trading Bane in the offseason. Fischer noted that although Morant has never formally requested a trade, both sides appear to agree he needs a fresh environment to grow.