Wed Jun 18 03:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:
**Summary:**
Ja Morant took to social media to downplay concerns about the Memphis Grizzlies’ future, urging reporters to focus on the current NBA Finals matchup between the Thunder and Pacers instead. His comments came after the Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane to the Magic for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and draft picks. While the trade sparked speculation, reports indicate the Grizzlies are committed to building around Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. despite recent coaching changes and Morant’s injury history.
**News Article:**
**Morant Shrugs Off Grizzlies’ Concerns, Focuses on NBA Finals**
MEMPHIS, TN – Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant has dismissed concerns about the team’s direction, urging the media to turn its attention to the ongoing NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. Morant took to social media on Tuesday, advocating for coverage of players like Jalen Williams, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, T.J. McConnell and Pascal Siakam amidst speculation surrounding the Grizzlies’ recent roster moves.
His comments followed the Grizzlies’ trade of Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for veteran Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, guard Cole Anthony, and four first-round draft picks, including the No. 16 selection in the 2025 draft. The trade sparked rumors about a potential rebuild in Memphis, which Morant seemed to refute in his online posts.
Multiple reports suggest that the Grizzlies are committed to building around Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. despite the departure of Bane. ESPN’s Shams Charania stated that the Grizzlies are privately signaling their intention to keep Morant and Jackson as the cornerstones of the franchise. Tim Bontemps corroborated this, reporting that the Grizzlies are not looking to trade either player.
Jackson has one year remaining on his current contract, but there’s optimism that the Grizzlies will reach an extension agreement before he hits free agency next spring.
The team recently fired head coach Taylor Jenkins, reportedly due to a disconnect with players, including Morant. Morant is currently under contract through the 2027-28 season and is eligible for a lucrative contract extension this summer. While ESPN’s Bobby Marks believes the Grizzlies may delay extension talks due to Morant’s injury and suspension history, early signs point to both the player and the team preparing for a strong run next season, aiming to break a four-year playoff series drought.
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