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Memphis trades Ja Morant to Portland, saves $8 million.

7/13/2026

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Memphis traded Ja Morant to Portland for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray.
Morant said the move offers a fresh start and a more mature mindset.
He claimed his “bad guy” image is a misconception that has already been addressed.
The trade saves Memphis about $8 million in cap space for 2027-28, while Grant carries a $36.4 million player option.

History

Historical Context

After the Grizzlies posted a league-worst 22-60 record in 2006-07, they traded star Pau Gasol to the Los Angeles Lakers on February 1, 2008, shedding salary and acquiring future picks. A similar strategy resurfaced in 2024 when Memphis moved Rookie-of-the-Year guard Ja Morant for Jerami Grant and rookie Kris Murray, using a marquee contract to gain depth and cap flexibility.

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Story summary

Memphis traded Ja Morant to Portland for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray.
Morant said the move offers a fresh start and a more mature mindset.
He claimed his “bad guy” image is a misconception that has already been addressed.
The trade saves Memphis about $8 million in cap space for 2027-28, while Grant carries a $36.4 million player option.

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