NBA Trade Rumors: Timberwolves Eye Ja Morant–Anthony Edwards Backcourt in Blockbuster Deal

The latest blockbuster NBA trade rumor has linked Ja Morant with a shocking move to the Minnesota Timberwolves, where he would form a lethal backcourt with Anthony Edwards. According to The Athletic's Sam Amick, Minnesota is "monitoring" Morant's situation in Memphis.

“The Minnesota Timberwolves, per a team source, are one. Ditto for the Sacramento Kings," Amick wrote on Wednesday.

The insider also ruled out the Houston Rockets from contending with the Timberwolves and Kings for Morant.

"The Grizzlies’ next opponent, the Houston Rockets, need a point guard after losing Fred VanVleet to a torn ACL in the preseason but, per a team source, are unlikely to pursue him," Amick said.

Morant's situation in Memphis has been murky amid his rift with coaches. He called out Tuomas Iisalo and his staff after losing to the LA Lakers on Friday. Morant was suspended for a game on Sunday against the Raptors. He returned Monday against the Detroit Pistons, but said he didn't have his "joy," fueling the trade speculation.

Why the Timberwolves make sense as a landing spot for Ja Morant

The Timberwolves need to get younger around Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels, especially at the point guard position. Veteran Mike Conley is 38 and past his best. Meanwhile, Rob Dillingham, 20, hasn't shown enough promise to lead the Timberwolves' backcourt alongside Edwards.

Ja Morant hasn't been at his best this year, averaging career lows across the board, with 20.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 7.1 assists, shooting 39.3%. However, he's a proven performer. At 26, he still has time to revive himself.

Moreover, a change in surroundings alongside a perennial All-Star like Anthony Edwards may be the spark he needs. The Timberwolves have the contracts to match salaries and a distant future first-round pick in 2032 to trade.

It remains to be seen if it satisfies the Grizzlies' asking price. As for Ja Morant's market value, it's not peaking given his yearly regression, health concerns and off-court issues, which have resulted in suspensions worth 33 games since 2023.