Ja Morant may be the current franchise player of the Memphis Grizzlies, but that does not mean that he's an untouchable asset. While the Grizz team continues to climb in the Western Conference ladder rankings, the high-flyer could be listed as a potential trade target, according to an NBA executive.

There's a big chance that Morant will be on the trade block if the team exits early in the playoffs.

NBA Insider Suggests Potential Morant Trade Rumors

NBA Trade Rumors: Ja Morant Might be Traded if Grizzlies NBA Trade Rumors: Ja Morant Might be Traded if Grizzlies
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Howard Beck of The Ringer recently broke on the "Real Ones" podcast that an unidentified league executive named Morant was a guy to watch this offseason. Though Memphis is financially secure and has committed to building around its youthful core, there is increasing talk about the team potentially trading him if it does not perform.

"I'm just checking in with executives near trade deadlines on what we did and didn't see, and what to look forward to," Beck said. "And someone just out of nowhere said, 'Keep an eye on Ja [Morant] this summer.' If they blow up early, it's something to watch."

Grizzlies' Salary Cap Position and Roster Stability

Despite trade rumors, the Grizzlies have a sound fiscal foundation. They are currently $52 million shy of the 2025-26 projected luxury tax threshold. Major players Morant and Desmond Bane already have long-term deals in place, guaranteeing stability within the team.

Also, key to Memphis' interior, Jaren Jackson Jr. is approaching the last season on his four-year, $104.7 million deal. The Grizzlies decided against signing an extension before last season, but negotiations might continue this summer.

If the Memphis Grizzlies really want to trade Morant, they need to go for a legit shooter like Cam Johnson, who is currently carrying the Nets.

Morant is Riddled With Injuries and Off-Court Controversies

While Morant is still the league's most exciting player, his durability and off-court issues have been concerns. Since the beginning of the 2023-24 season, the 25-year-old has played only 41 games, dealing with injuries and never reaching more than 63 games in a season, according to Athlon Sports.

On the floor, Morant is producing to the tune of 20.7 points and 7.4 assists on 32 career starts this year. However, for any franchise to build a title contender, availability is just as important, and his injury background might shape the Grizzlies' future thinking.

Despite Morant's missings, the Grizzlies are still a Western powerhouse. They are currently at No. 2 with a 36-18 record in the All-Star break. They tied a team record two years ago with 56 victories and lost to the Golden State Warriors in the Western Conference semifinals.

If Memphis doesn't go deep into the playoffs once again, it may prompt the front office to reassess its roster build—maybe making Morant a trade chip.

Although a trade at this point is doubtful, the NBA is in constant flux. If the Grizzlies do poorly in the playoffs, rumors of Morant increasing could intensify. For now, Memphis stands firm behind its franchise guard, but the off-season might introduce surprise developments.

Ultimately, it's up to Morant if he can carry the Grizzlies on their way to the NBA Conference finals. He's on a mission to save the team—and himself from being traded.

In another NBA trade rumor report, Spurs could sign Christian Wood, who was recently waived by the Lakers. He could be a good backup to the towering French center.