NBA Rumors: The reason negotiations for Giannis Antetokounmpo and Ja Morant could be postponed
The superstars of the Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies are the ones most related to changing teams before the Trade Deadline, but injuries could prevent it
With the NBA trade deadline less than two weeks away, two superstars who had been identified as potential market targets will be sidelined for a good part of the journey leading up to the February 5 deadline due to long-term injuries.
In Milwaukee, the Bucks will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo for an estimated period of four to six weeks. The Greek star is dealing with a right calf strain, marking his second significant absence this season. This injury comes at a critical time as his name resurfaces in trade rumors. While his status as a superstar remains intact, his immediate availability raises doubts for teams considering short-term moves.
In Memphis, the situation is also challenging. Ja Morant will be out for at least three weeks after sustaining a ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) sprain in his elbow. The Grizzlies' response to this setback will be a key focus in the upcoming weeks. Unlike Antetokounmpo, Morant's market is extremely limited. His current physical issue adds to a history of prolonged injuries, off-court incidents, and a hefty contract.
A Heavy Contract and Declining Numbers
Morant is earning $39.4 million this season and has two more years on his contract, with an average annual salary of $42 million. In the current season, he has already missed 23 out of 43 games. Despite averaging 19.5 points and 8.1 assists as a 26-year-old two-time All-Star, he is experiencing his least efficient year, shooting a mere 23.5% from three-point range and 41% from the field, both personal lows.
For Giannis, if any team is truly determined to pursue him, this injury should not be a definitive deterrent. However, for a title contender this season, parting ways with a key roster piece in exchange for a player who will be out for several weeks is a much more debatable decision. Therefore, the hypothetical race to acquire Antetokounmpo may be postponed until next summer, while Morant's scenario points to a practically frozen short-term market.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: La razón por la que las negociaciones por Giannis Antetokounmpo y Ja Morant podrían quedar aplazadas
