Should the Lakers Go After the Grizzlies Two-Time All-Star Point Guard?
As the Feb 5th NBA Trade Deadline nears, the Los Angeles Lakers face challenges after losing five of their last seven games. Rumors reemerge about Ja Morant, Memphis's two-time all-star point guard. Despite recent calf injury setbacks that limited his season, Morant has shown loyalty to Memphis. Still, reports suggest the Lakers are considering a deal. Los Angeles lacks momentum, and Morant is one of the few NBA players capable of transforming an offense and challenging defenses during transitions. With LeBron James potentially nearing the end of his era, the Lakers need a true franchise cornerstone. Currently, Morant's trade value is low due to his injury and recent inefficiency, creating a rare opportunity to acquire top talent without sacrificing future picks. A key factor is Austin Reaves, who has improved significantly. Reaves's reliability and efficiency make him a core player. If Los Angeles trades for Morant, Memphis likely will want Reaves in return. Trading a high-efficiency all-star for a currently inconsistent, injury-prone player might not deliver the desired outcome.
Morant's inconsistent three-point shooting also raises spacing concerns, complicating roster dynamics. The Lakers can't afford to trade one set of availability issues for another. While Ja Morant is an attractive name, the timing isn't right. Los Angeles should avoid drastic moves now, focus on minor improvements, and keep flexibility for the offseason. The most critical piece of context often ignored in these rumors is that the Lakers already have their franchise engine in Luka Dončić. While the blockbuster acquisition of Luka in 2024 stabilized the post-LeBron transition, it also dictated the type of players that could succeed in Los Angeles.
Luka leads the league in usage rate, while Morant is a high usage point guard who relies heavily on the ball. Morant’s shooting has worsened this season, with a career low from three. Pairing him with Luka could allow defenses to clog the paint, neutralizing their driving and playmaking strengths. In 2024, trading Reaves for Morant might have seemed balanced, but by January 2026, it would be a grave mistake. Reaves has become a strong all-star contender. Unlike Morant, Reaves is a top-tier secondary playmaker who excels off the ball, shooting from three. He’s essential to the team's chemistry. Giving him up for a problematic asset like Morant is not a problem the Lakers need, I think.
