In the wake of Damian Lillard requesting a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers, one NBA writer is proposing that the Memphis Grizzlies trade Ja Morant to the Blazers for Lillard.
Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World proposed that the Grizzlies send Morant to the Blazers for Lillard in a straight swap of NBA superstars.
“In a rare blockbuster swap between NBA superstars, an intriguing possibility emerges for both the Grizzlies and the Blazers,” Bitar wrote. “For the Grizzlies, the acquisition of Lillard would signify the addition of a seasoned superstar and one of the league’s premier guards, showcasing his mature best. Lillard’s scoring prowess, leadership qualities, and clutch performances would instantaneously elevate the Grizzlies’ championship aspirations, especially with the recent addition of Marcus Smart, another seasoned veteran eager to win at any cost.
“Lillard’s presence would also bring invaluable mentorship to the young core, including the defensive force of All-Star Jaren Jackson Jr. and the developing talent of Desmond Bane, whose trajectory hints at future All-Star potential. Yet, parting ways with Morant, the rising star and face of the franchise, poses a difficult decision for the Grizzlies. Morant’s explosive athleticism, playmaking skills, and rim-finishing abilities have made him one of the league’s most electrifying young guards. Nonetheless, concerns about his maturity and off-court issues cloud his outlook, and it may take several years for him to reach his full potential.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies & Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Morant will miss the first 25 games of the next NBA season due to a suspension for showing a gun on an IG Live video. The Murray State product signed a five-year, $194.3 million designated rookie contract extension with the Grizzlies in July 2022. He averaged 26.2 points, 5.9 rebounds and 8.1 assists last season.
Lillard doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract, so the Blazers can trade him anywhere. The Grizzlies are not expected to call the Blazers and inquire about Lillard since they have a talented core of Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane. Even though Lillard is a better jump shooter than Morant and more mature, Memphis isn’t going to trade Morant for Lillard, who may not even be happy in Memphis since his heart is set on playing for the Miami Heat.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies & Portland Trail Blazers Updates
A future Hall of Famer, Lillard averaged 32.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists last season. He’s one of the best players in the NBA and most people around the league expect the Heat and Blazers to eventually make a trade.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
