The recent exchange between Ja Morant and Klay Thompson has reportedly prompted the Memphis Grizzlies organization to quietly urge Morant to “stay quiet” and avoid further incidents — primarily out of concern that continued drama could damage his trade value.
For much of Wednesday, speculation has swirled that the front office has privately communicated to Morant that now is not the time for noise: with potential suitors already wary of his inconsistency, behavioral issues, and recent low‑effort performances, the last thing the Grizzlies want is for their star guard to undercut his own value.
The scene unfolded on November 23 when Memphis beat the Dallas Mavericks 102–96. Morant — dressed in street clothes, not participating due to a calf injury — approached Thompson after the buzzer and reportedly told him, “You a bum now.” He then interrupted a post‑game interview with teammate Cam Spencer to double down, proclaiming: “Tell ’em who the best shooter in the house was — it wasn’t bro from Golden State.”
Thompson, a four-time NBA champion and league veteran, responded harshly — calling Morant “a funny guy” who “has a lot to say all the time, especially for a guy that rarely takes accountability.” He added: “It’s funny to run your mouth when you’re on the bench… it’s kind of the story of his career so far — just leaving us wanting more.”
Public criticism came quickly. Former players and analysts stressed that Morant should have stayed quiet, especially as he wore a warm‑up suit rather than a jersey. One pointed out that the trash talk cam e at a time when Morant’s on‑court contributions were underwhelming and his defensive effort suspect.
Within Memphis, the reaction has reportedly been one of exasperation. The Grizzlies are dealing with more than just a verbal spat: earlier this season, Morant was suspended one game after a heated locker‑room exchange with head coach Tuomas Iisalo following a loss.
That incident, combined with his recent on‑court struggles — shooting poorly, turning the ball over often, and showing limited defensive focus — has contributed to a steep drop in leaguewide appetite for acquiring him via trade.
In public, the franchise continues to maintain a “no‑trade” stance. As recently as earlier this season, their general manager explicitly denied shopping Morant. But league‑wide whispers have grown louder: rival front offices admit to some interest — albeit lukewarm — wondering whether a “buy‑low” opportunity on a former All-Star might make sense.
And that is precisely why the organization is said to have leaned on Morant now: if he wants to preserve — or even slightly boost — the possibility that some team might give genuine value for him before the trade deadline, he must avoid further public outbursts.
Their message is clear: keep it internal. Keep it quiet. Let basketball, not drama, speak for you.
Whether Morant heeds that advice could very well determine if the franchise protects him or quietly moves on.
