The Memphis Grizzlies aren’t officially in crisis – yet – but the situation is heading downhill fast. At the center of it all is Ja Morant, who returned as the team’s leader but has become more a source of tension than inspiration.

The locker room is unsettled, chemistry with the coaching staff is fraying, and performance levels are dipping. Three straight losses have only amplified the unease – but the real concern is deeper: Morant says he’s no longer finding joy in the game, a heavy statement from the player meant to lead the franchise.

Memphis, still viewing him as the face of its future, isn’t looking to trade him – for now. But if the atmosphere continues to deteriorate, a move could become inevitable. The problem? There may be no market for him.

Four executives I spoke with today said they’re not interested in trading for him. One cited a combination of his contract and off-court issues. Another said that if Ja were traded, it would likely be a ‘problem-for-problem’ kind of deal. I asked an active NBA coach if he’d want to coach Ja Morant, and he said he’s not sure he would.

Marc J. Spears, via ESPN

According to ESPN, multiple front-office executives have expressed zero interest in acquiring Morant, citing both his large contract and reputation issues. Even one current coach reportedly hesitated at the idea of coaching him.

That growing stigma could soon become a major obstacle. The longer the uncertainty lingers, the harder it will be for the Grizzlies to stabilize their locker room – or for Morant to rebuild trust around the league.

For Memphis, the path forward is clear but difficult: restore confidence in their star, or risk watching a franchise built around him slowly fall apart.