The Memphis Grizzlies’ 2024-25 campaign started strong but ended in disappointment. After opening the season with a solid 36-18 record, internal issues surfaced, culminating in the surprising dismissal of head coach Taylor Jenkins in late March.
Under new head coach Tuomas Iisalo, Memphis clinched a playoff spot but was swept in the first round by the Oklahoma City Thunder. A turning point came in Game 3 when star guard Ja Morant suffered a hip injury after a hard fall, contributing to a stunning collapse in which the Grizzlies blew a 29-point lead.
Morant’s ongoing injury problems, combined with past off-court controversies, have raised questions about his long-term future with the team. Although the front office has publicly stated they have “zero interest” in trading the two-time All-Star, league insiders continue to speculate. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon noted on the Hoop Collective Podcast that “whispers and rumblings” about Morant’s availability are circulating around the league.
Despite the uncertainty, rookie standout Jaylen Wells voiced unwavering support for Morant. Appearing on FanDuel’s Run It Back, Wells responded enthusiastically when asked if he wanted to play alongside Morant next season:
“Oh, for sure. I don’t know what Memphis is without Ja.”
Since being drafted second overall in 2019, Morant has become the face of the franchise, leading Memphis to four playoff appearances in five seasons, including a 2022 run that ended in the second round against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Heading into the offseason, the Grizzlies face pivotal roster decisions, with Morant’s future looming as the franchise’s biggest storyline.
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