The Houston Rockets have no interest in trading for Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant, sources confirmed Wednesday, even after losing veteran guard Fred VanVleet for the season to a torn ACL.
According to The Athletic, general manager Rafael Stone continues to prioritize the development of Houston’s young core, avoiding high-risk moves that could compromise the team’s long-term competitiveness. “As has been the case so often in recent years, the Rockets found a way to get what they wanted without shortening the team’s shelf life by making desperate moves,” the report stated.
Houston currently holds a 15-6 record and sits third in the Western Conference, demonstrating that the team can remain competitive without making a blockbuster trade. Key contributors include Kevin Durant, averaging 25.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, and Alperen Sengun, who is producing 23.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 7.1 assists.
The Rockets’ front office is committed to internal development, relying on young players such as Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr., and Reed Sheppard to fill expanded roles while maintaining roster flexibility. “Stone values this young core greatly and has frequently resisted the temptation to reach for overpriced roster shortcuts,” The Athletic noted.
Meanwhile, Morant is focused on stabilizing the Grizzlies, despite an inconsistent start to the 2025-26 season. Memphis sits 11-13 and ninth in the Western Conference. Morant is averaging 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists, though his shooting percentages are down to 35.9% from the field and 16.7% from three-point range.
Morant has also been active off the court, working closely with head coach Tuomas Iisalo and guiding teammates on the playboard, as noted by Sam Amick on Run It Back. “Both Morant and his camp are trying to push this thing through,” Amick said, highlighting the guard’s commitment to the team despite early-season challenges, including a one-game suspension after a locker room incident.
Other Grizzlies contributors have stepped up in Morant’s absence. Jaren Jackson Jr. is averaging 17 points and 5 rebounds, while Zach Edey contributes 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. Cedric Coward and Santi Aldama have also added frontcourt support, helping Memphis navigate its uneven start.
