Former NBA champion, Jason Williams, calls out Memphis Grizzlies for tactically devaluing Ja Morant to jeopardize his reputation across the league.
After Ja Morant’s displeasure with the Memphis Grizzlies’ coaching staff became increasingly apparent and videos surfaced on social media showing him in heated exchanges with teammates, it began to feel inevitable that a separation could be on the horizon.
Speculation intensified when the team traded Jock Landale and Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz, fueling questions about the franchise’s direction and Morant’s long-term future. However, reports later indicated that no team was willing to assemble a substantial trade package for the former Rookie of the Year. Former NBA champion Jason Williams believes that is not a coincidence.
Whether it was Morant’s extended injury absences, his visibly disengaged demeanor while sidelined, or a dip in his scoring efficiency, signs pointed to a player navigating turbulence rather than stability.
Through 20 games this season, Morant has averaged 19.5 points, 8.1 assists and 3.3 rebounds in 28.5 minutes per contest. He is shooting 41.0% from the field and 23.5% from 3-point range on 4.3 attempts per game. His free-throw shooting remains strong at 89.7%, contributing to a 52.1% true shooting percentage. He has also averaged 3.6 turnovers per game and posted a minus-50 plus-minus across 569 total minutes.
Those figures reflect both continued responsibility and uneven efficiency. His 8.1 assists per game underscore that he remains the primary engine of Memphis’ offense, but the drop in perimeter shooting and overall field-goal percentage has drawn attention. Combined with the team’s broader roster reshuffling, the scrutiny has intensified.
Reports questioning Morant’s attitude further shaped the conversation, painting a picture of disconnect between player and franchise.
Speaking on the “Hoopin’ N Hollerin’” podcast, Williams forcefully rejected the idea that Morant’s value had simply cratered around the league. He suggested instead that internal dynamics were influencing the narrative and public perception of the star guard.
“I think that’s some bulls—. I think that’s what they want us to believe… they’re trying to do that to (embarrass him); help their position, so to speak. He’s out of there,” Williams said. “And now Jaren Jackson is out of there, he’s definitely out in the summer.”
Despite the statistical dip, Morant’s résumé still carries considerable weight. A two-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, he helped elevate Memphis into national relevance during his ascent. His ability to pressure defenses, attack the rim and create opportunities for teammates remains central to his profile.
At the same time, the Grizzlies appear unwilling to move him without substantial return value. That creates a standoff: if Memphis maintains a high asking price while rival teams hesitate due to performance trends and recent off-court noise, the situation could linger into the offseason.
The numbers illustrate a player still capable of orchestrating offense but searching for consistency. His assist production signals control, yet his 23.5% shooting from deep and 3.6 turnovers per game highlight inefficiencies that contenders will evaluate closely. His minus-50 plus-minus over 20 games further underscores the team-wide struggles during his time on the floor.
Williams’ comments reflect a broader debate about accountability, leverage and franchise direction. As the offseason approaches, Memphis faces a pivotal decision — recommit to Morant as its cornerstone or pivot toward a different long-term plan.
For now, the uncertainty remains, with Morant’s talent unquestioned and his future unresolved.