​NBA free agency kicked off on June 30, and the Memphis Grizzlies have already taken several steps to position the franchise for the future, including trading away the former face of the team, Ja Morant. That move paves the way for a rebuild around a new core that features Zach Edey, Cedric Coward, and 2026 NBA Draft No. 3 overall pick Cameron Boozer. Trades can be finalized once the league’s moratorium ends on July 6.
On July 1, the Grizzlies sent Santi Aldama to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for AJ Johnson, a protected 2030 first-round pick (originating from the Golden State Warriors), and two future second-round picks. Johnson, who has been drafted in the first round in 2023, has split his 2025-2026 season across the Wizards and Mavericks, appearing in 48 games and averaging 9.4 minutes per contest. This move helps the Grizzlies accumulate future assets, while Aldama finds a fresh start in Dallas.
Additionally, Memphis contributed $1 million to the trade that sent Ja Morant to Portland, exchanging Jerami Grant and Kris Murray. The trade has sparked a broad range of reactions online as Morant departs after seven seasons with the Grizzlies, during which he earned two All-Star selections, the NBA Rookie of the Year award, and an All-NBA second-team honor in 2021-22. The Grizzlies secured Kris Murray, a 2023 draft pick, and veteran forward Jerami Grant in return.
This article originated with the Memphis Commercial Appeal and provides updates on Grizzlies activity, NBA free agency developments, and related trade rumors. For further details, reach out to Commercial Appeal sports intern Said Bravo at said.nonoal@commercialappeal.com.