The Phoenix Suns once again being linked with Ja Morant should not come as a surprise, as we've already discussed this is going to be an offseason in which the franchise is linked with everybody.
This chatter was shut down almost immediately by those in the know, with owner Mat Ishbia having already publicly stated the Suns are most likely going to run it back next season.
Ishbia no longer tempted by short-term star fixes the right move
The fact that organization isn't entertaining trading for a player who can clearly raise their ceiling means Ishbia is sticking to his word of taking a long-term approach here. Which makes missing out on Jimmy Butler when they did the lucky escape that allows the Suns to look at the bigger picture.
Morant would be a flashy signing who would sell jerseys and tickets, while also taking the ball out of Devin Booker's hands some to allow him to get back to scoring at an elite level. He would also be a clear upgrade over Jalen Green, albeit an expensive one who brings with him the same defensive fragilities.
But Morant's off the court issues have been well documented, while he hasn't been an All-Star in the last three seasons. Injuries haven't helped, which is another reason to stay away.
Sources: Amid rumors surrounding a Ja Morant trade, the Suns will not entertain the idea of trading for the Grizzlies' guard.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) June 9, 2026
More on @ClutchPoints about Morant and multiple sources shutting down any links to Phoenix: https://t.co/pM2h7Ue7KD
The alternative of hoping Booker remains engaged enough to endure this re-tooling that is not easy thanks to their cap situation is scary. It also puts a clear cap on how far this group can go in the playoffs.
But reaching for the short-term satisfaction of another name who could perhaps help the Suns take a game off the Oklahoma City Thunder in a playoff series just isn't worth it.
Think of Morant like doomscrolling - in the moment it feels good and you might even some the kind of content that you just have to share with your friends. But when you finally put that phone away, that burst of dopamine will pop and you're left with that hollow feeling of having achieved nothing. Just like having Morant on this roster.
The 2025-26 season was one in which the fans came flooding back to The Valley. They appreciated the effort and hustle from what at its core is a limited roster, and enjoyed the unexpected ride to the postseason.
Cashing in on all of that to get better immediately was how Ishbia started his tenure here, but not anymore. The right direction to take on this.
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