Trail Blazers trade for Ja Morant, sparking controversy and debate
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 6:46 AM
Last updated Jun 30, 2026
The Portland Trail Blazers traded Kris Murray and Jerami Grant to the Memphis Grizzlies for Ja Morant on June 30, 2026. Following a first-round exit from the playoffs, the Blazers aim for deeper postseason success with the two-time All-Star. However, columnist Bill Oram criticized the move as potentially the worst trade in franchise history, citing Morant's off-court issues and comparing the deal to the troubled 'Jail Blazers' era. Oram's comments have ignited a strong backlash on social media, with some fans defending the trade and questioning its fit within the team's existing roster.
- •Blazers acquire Ja Morant from Grizzlies for Kris Murray and Jerami Grant.
- •Morant has faced multiple off-court controversies and injuries.
- •Critics reference historical issues with the franchise's past players.
- •Social media backlash arises over the trade assessment by columnist Bill Oram.
- •Questions remain about Morant's fit with existing guards on the roster.
- 6:46 AMYahoo Sports — ‘The Worst Trade in Trail Blazers History’ — Columnist Destroys Portland’s ‘Tone-Deaf’ Blockbuster for Ja Morant
- 6:12 AMYahoo Sports — ’You’re a Clown’ — NBA World Rips Columnist for Labeling Ja Morant Deal the ’Worst Trade in Trail Blazers History’
"The Memphis Grizzlies traded Ja Morant, their franchise player over the last few years, to the Portland Trail Blazers for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray on Monday. Morant has always been a very talented lead guard, but he has an unmistakable history of off-the-court incidents, and his attitude is questionable.
"The Portland Trail Blazers reportedly traded Kris Murray and Jerami Grant to the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday for Ja Morant. After a 2026 first-round exit, their first playoff appearance since 2021, the Blazers are hoping the two-time All-Star could push them deeper into the postseason.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 30, 2026, 6:46 AM‘The Worst Trade in Trail Blazers History’ — Columnist Destroys Portland’s ‘Tone-Deaf’ Blockbuster for Ja Morant
The Portland Trail Blazers reportedly traded Kris Murray and Jerami Grant to the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday for Ja Morant. After a 2026 first-round exit, their first playoff appearance since 2021, the Blazers are hoping the two-time All-Star could push them deeper into the postseason.
- Yahoo SportsJun 30, 2026, 6:12 AM’You’re a Clown’ — NBA World Rips Columnist for Labeling Ja Morant Deal the ’Worst Trade in Trail Blazers History’
The Memphis Grizzlies traded Ja Morant, their franchise player over the last few years, to the Portland Trail Blazers for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray on Monday. Morant has always been a very talented lead guard, but he has an unmistakable history of off-the-court incidents, and his attitude is questionable.
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