The Sacramento KingsTeam·Sacramento Kings, desperate for a point guard after a 22-60 finish to the 2025-26 season, may rekindle their interest in Ja Morant this summer. Sources indicate Sacramento previously engaged MemphisTeam·Memphis in pre-deadline discussions but asked the Grizzlies to include draft picks to sweeten the deal, stalling talks. With the Kings now lottery-bound and Morant's value at a low following a turbulent year, the fit could gain traction if Sacramento whiffs on a franchise lead guard in the draft.
Morant, the two-time All-Star, suited up for just 20 games this season, sidelined by injuries and off-court issues that included a suspension stemming from conflicts with head coach Tuomas Iisalo. He's made it clear to players and former coaches that he has no intention of returning to MemphisTeam·Memphis, putting the Grizzlies in a position to move him despite a diminished return. Owed $42.2 million in 2026-27 and $44.9 million the following year, Morant's massive contract complicates any deal, but executives believe a buyer will emerge at a discount.
ESPN's Tim MacMahon and Michael C. Wright flagged the Kings as a potential suitor, while NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson labeled Sacramento—alongside the Phoenix Suns—a "serious" contender for his services. Earlier rumors tied the Kings to multi-team scenarios, including mock trades sending Zach LaVinePlayer·Zach LaVine to MemphisTeam·Memphis in exchange for Morant, though no formal offers materialized before the February deadline. Sacramento's cap flexibility heading into 2027, with several contracts expiring, positions them to take on risk for a high-upside talent like Morant.
For the Kings, who cratered from playoff contention to one of the West's worst records, landing a dynamic guard like Morant represents a bold pivot. Their point guard situation has been a glaring hole, exacerbated by the season's collapse, and a high draft pick offers their clearest path to stability—though the lottery's unpredictability leaves trade pursuits alive. MemphisTeam·Memphis, meanwhile, faces a rebuild after failing to maximize Morant's prime years, and offloading him could accelerate their reset even if the haul underwhelms.
No current offers are confirmed, and feasibility hinges on draft outcomes, cap machinations, and Morant's camp. As the offseason looms, Sacramento's quiet monitoring could evolve into aggressive pursuit, reshaping both franchises' trajectories.
Ja Morant of the Grizzlies drives against Zach LaVine of the Bulls. Photo by Icon Sportswire/IMAGO
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