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Ja Morant’s Portland Return to Face Memphis Oct. 29

By Drooid · Oct 29, 2026 · How we work

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Summary

U.S. guard Ja Morant (Portland) will play Memphis on Oct. 29, calling it another game.
Morant said he holds no hard feelings toward Memphis and remains cool with teammates.
He averaged 16.3 points on 58.8% shooting in three Portland games.
Basketball Reference logged a 15.5 game score in three games, a level not seen since 2025.
Analysts say Morant’s resurgence could spark Portland’s playoff push and a Conference Finals run.

Summary

Ja Morant was traded to Portland for Jerami Grant, Kris Murray and $1 million cash, no draft picks.
After trading Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis opened the season 4-0, first such start since 2014.
Coach Micah Nori’s system emphasizes transition, spacing and limited mid-range shots, tailoring offense to Morant’s strengths.
Veteran mentors Jrue Holiday and Damian Lillard were highlighted as key factors smoothing Morant’s integration and preserving chemistry.

History

In July 2007 the Boston Celtics completed a 7-for-1 deal, sending seven players to Minnesota for former MVP Kevin Garnett. The move sparked a 42-game turnaround, delivering a 66-win 2007-08 season and the franchise’s 17th championship. Portland’s 2024 Ja Morant trade echoes that star-centric strategy as the Trail Blazers hope to replicate Boston’s rapid rise.

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In July 2007 the Boston Celtics completed a 7-for-1 deal, sending seven players to Minnesota for former MVP Kevin Garnett. The move sparked a 42-game turnaround, delivering a 66-win 2007-08 season and the franchise’s 17th championship. Portland’s 2024 Ja Morant trade echoes that star-centric strategy as the Trail Blazers hope to replicate Boston’s rapid rise.

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