Former NBA forward Chandler Parsons weighed in on Ja Morant’s struggles during a recent appearance on Run It Back, describing the Memphis guard as “so checked out.”
Parsons added, via HoopsHype, “He is so unhappy. He is frustrated, and I don’t know every detail of the situation…he’s becoming a negative impact on this franchise, and on—and in—that locker room.”
The Grizzlies star has endured a turbulent 2025-26 season, posting career-low shooting numbers through 18 games, including 40.1 percent from the field and just 20.8 percent from three-point range while averaging 19.0 points and 7.6 assists per game.
Parsons criticized Morant’s handling of media scrutiny. “The media is just doing their job…you have to be a professional. He didn’t. He was just laughing, covering his face,” he said.
According to Parsons, the former Rookie of the Year is failing to focus on basketball. “This isn’t about him doing what he does best…for years, the last couple of years, it’s just been all downhill,” he said.
The guard’s season has been marred by disciplinary issues, including a one-game suspension in October for “conduct detrimental to the team,” stemming from a postgame altercation with head coach Tuomas Iisalo. Morant responded briefly to media inquiries, saying, “Go ask the coaching staff… According to them, probably don’t play me, honestly… That’s cool.”
Despite Parsons’ harsh assessment, sources close to Morant stress his loyalty to Memphis. One insider told reporters, “Ja loves the city and he loves the team. We are going to weather the storm,” emphasizing the tension is internal rather than geographic.
Reports indicate the Grizzlies are open to exploring trade options before the February 5 deadline, with teams like the Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors, and Sacramento Kings showing interest. Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson confirmed Memphis is officially listening to offers for its two-time All-Star.
Morant’s struggles extend beyond the court, with a reported confrontation in Germany involving teammate Vince Williams Jr. during the NBA Berlin Game. Sources said the dispute was personal, unrelated to basketball.
Parsons concluded, “This is just what it feels like…always something, man. It’s never about basketball,” calling into question whether Morant is still capable of anchoring the franchise.
Since being drafted second overall, Morant has earned Rookie of the Year honors, a Most Improved Player award, and two All-Star selections, and has guided Memphis to a division title and a 56-26 record in 2022, establishing himself as the face of the franchise.
With the trade deadline approaching, the Grizzlies face a critical choice: maintain loyalty to a star player with internal tensions or consider a roster shakeup that could reshape the team’s future in the Western Conference.
