Amid trade rumors, Ja Morant makes a statement

As recently as last week, it looked as if Ja Morant may have played his last game for the Memphis Grizzlies. Now, the feeling around Morant is very different.

Sidelined by the latest in a series of injuries, Morant was the subject of sustained trade talk last week. The Grizzlies were reportedly willing to move on from the 26-year-old but his return to the team on Sunday may have given them pause for thought.

Morant returned from a six-game injury absence to star for the Grizzlies in a 126-109 win over the Orlando Magic. Morant put up 24 points and 13 assists for Memphis in London, and he had a message to fans in the aftermath of the game.

Ja Morant trade rumors put aside

Last week ESPN reported that the Grizzlies were willing to entertain offers for Morant, the two-time All-Star. Injuries had restricted him to just 18 appearances in the team’s first 39 games, sparking concern about his durability.

However Morant remains an incredible talent and he showed that against the Magic on Sunday. Speaking after the game, he reiterated his commitment to Memphis amid the trade talks.

“I’ve got a logo on my back, so that should tell you exactly where I want to be,” Morant said, reference his tattoo of the Grizzlies logo. “If anybody in here knows me... I’m a very loyal guy.”

“Just being able to play basketball... it’s very therapeutic for me,” Morant continued. “I know what I’m capable of out there on the court and I was able to show that tonight.

Memphis have another two weeks to come to a decision on Morant’s future. He is currently in the third year of a five-year deal worth $197.2 million, limiting the number of teams who would be able to accommodate a midseason trade.

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