The Kings Should Trade for Ja Morant

His ability to attack the paint and force defensive rotations adds a level of nuance that this Sacramento offense lacks. He also possesses upside beyond the numbers, as he has already shown that he can be a franchise-level player. Despite recent turmoil in Memphis, a change of scenery could help him return to that level.

Why It Works for Memphis

Moving Morant would allow the Grizzlies to reset their timeline and clear long-term salary. His contract, which extends into the 2027-28 season, carries significant financial weight. Moving it now opens flexibility for the future.

In return, Memphis would get LaVine, a proven scorer on a shorter-term deal. While LaVine carries a high salary, his contract structure is more manageable in the long run.

The Financial Fit

LaVine is set to earn $48.9 million if he picks up his player option. Meanwhile, Morant will make $42.1 million this season and $44.8 million the following year. Sacramento would take on an additional year’s worth of salary, but at a slightly lower annual value. If the Kings are dead set on upgrading the backcourt, taking on Morant’s contract would be a reasonable tradeoff.

If the trade were to go through, Memphis would still be about $9 million under the salary cap. As for Sacramento, they would be able to get under the luxury tax threshold for this upcoming season.

The Draft Factor

This decision also depends on how Sacramento approaches the 2026 draft.

If they were to draft a guard, the equation changes, as Morant would no longer be filling as much of a need. However, if the Kings are able to land a forward such as Cameron Boozer or Caleb Wilson, the search for a lead guard would likely continue. In that scenario, adding Morant makes even more sense, as he would step into that role immediately.

The Risk

There is risk involved with this move, as Morant’s recent seasons have included injuries and inconsistency. Additionally, his three-point shooting remains a question. Those concerns cannot be ignored.

At the same time, though, his ceiling is clear. When healthy and playing at his best, Morant is a player who can carry an offense and dictate the pace of a game. That level of talent is not easy to acquire.

The Bottom Line

This is a move Sacramento should seriously consider. Morant gives the Kings a different kind of offensive engine, one that could elevate the team’s ceiling.

The talent is there, and the opportunity is there. Only one question remains: is Sacramento willing to make the move?

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