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Bucks Pursue Morant Trade, Facing High Price Tag

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 7:55 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Tennessee, Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

Milwaukee, WI - February 10th, 2026 - The Milwaukee Bucks are aggressively exploring a trade for Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, but the asking price is proving to be a significant hurdle, according to sources close to both organizations. The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, and Milwaukee appears determined to make a splash, viewing Morant as a potential cornerstone player who can elevate them back to championship contention.

Reports from ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, confirmed by multiple sources, indicate that the Grizzlies are seeking a hefty return for the dynamic, yet controversial, point guard. Memphis isn't simply looking to offload Morant; they're aiming for a package that will accelerate their rebuild following a season of internal struggles and questions about team direction. Wojnarowski specifically highlighted that the Grizzlies are demanding multiple first-round draft picks and promising young players in any potential deal. This isn't a fire sale - it's a calculated effort to maximize value for a player with immense potential, even given the risks.

The Allure of Morant: A High-Risk, High-Reward Gamble

For the Bucks, the appeal of Ja Morant is obvious. A two-time All-Star, Morant's electrifying athleticism, scoring prowess, and playmaking ability would instantly inject excitement and a new dimension into Milwaukee's offense. While Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the team's undisputed leader, adding a player of Morant's caliber would provide another consistent scoring threat and alleviate some of the offensive burden on the 'Greek Freak.' Analysts suggest that pairing Morant with Antetokounmpo would create a uniquely challenging matchup for opposing defenses, potentially unlocking a new level of offensive fluidity for the Bucks.

However, the Bucks' interest isn't without considerable apprehension. Morant's recent history of off-court incidents, most notably his 11-game suspension for displaying a firearm on social media, casts a long shadow. This suspension, coupled with previous concerns about his behavior, raises legitimate questions about his maturity and potential for future disruptions. Milwaukee would need to be absolutely certain they can mitigate these risks before committing significant assets to acquire him. The team's ownership and coaching staff have reportedly engaged in lengthy discussions about the potential cultural impact of bringing in a player with Morant's history.

Bucks' Assets and the Grizzlies' Valuation

The Bucks do possess the draft capital to potentially satisfy Memphis' demands. Over the past few seasons, they've strategically accumulated first-round picks through trades, giving them a degree of flexibility. However, parting with too many future assets could severely hamper their ability to build depth and address other roster needs down the line. The key question isn't simply if they have the picks, but which picks they're willing to offer, and whether that aligns with Memphis's valuation. Furthermore, identifying young players with enough potential to entice the Grizzlies will be challenging. The Bucks' roster isn't overflowing with blue-chip prospects.

Alternative Trade Targets & League-Wide Activity

The situation with Ja Morant isn't unfolding in isolation. Across the league, teams are actively engaged in trade discussions as the deadline nears. The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly exploring options to move D'Angelo Russell, while the Indiana Pacers are heavily linked to Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam. A comprehensive NBA trade deadline tracker, maintained by Sporting News, reveals a flurry of activity, indicating that numerous teams are attempting to reshape their rosters before the window closes. This increased competition could drive up prices, making it even more difficult for the Bucks to secure a deal for Morant.

What's Next?

Negotiations between the Bucks and Grizzlies are ongoing, but sources indicate a significant gap remains between their respective valuations. It's unlikely a deal will materialize unless Memphis lowers its demands or Milwaukee identifies a more palatable package. The Bucks may explore alternative options, potentially targeting less expensive, but still impactful, players to address their needs. As the trade deadline looms, the pressure will mount, and a resolution - one way or another - is expected soon. The fate of Ja Morant, and potentially the Bucks' championship aspirations, hangs in the balance.