The future of Ja Morant with the Memphis Grizzlies appears uncertain as discussions about his potential trade intensify. As teams like Minnesota, Miami, and Brooklyn express interest, the Indiana Pacers find themselves contemplating a role as a facilitator in a possible deal. While initially it seemed unlikely given their current guard depth, a closer examination reveals potential avenues for Indiana to engage in trade talks.
Memphis currently has a surplus of centers, with four on their roster performing well this season. Despite the Pacers being well-stocked at guard when healthy, their ongoing search for a long-term solution at center may prompt them to explore opportunities linked to Morant’s situation. Indiana previously traded with Memphis in the offseason, acquiring Jay Huff for two second-round picks, suggesting a working relationship that could be beneficial in future negotiations.
Among the six teams reportedly pursuing Morant, the Pacers could emerge as a third party if any of these franchises opt to move a center in the process. Notably, players like Naz Reid from Minnesota, Nic Claxton from Brooklyn, or Kel’el Ware from Miami could fit well within the Pacers’ plans.
Memphis’s current roster includes centers with local ties to Indiana, such as Jaren Jackson Jr., who won two state titles playing high school basketball in the state. Jackson, a former Defensive Player of the Year, averages 18 points and 6 rebounds per game. His contract, currently around $35 million, is set to increase to $49 million next season, making this a critical time for Indiana to consider a trade if they wish to match salaries effectively.
On the other hand, Zach Edey, a two-time National Player of the Year from Purdue University, presents a more manageable contract. Edey is on a rookie deal worth $6.04 million in 2025-26 and is averaging 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. Although he has faced injury challenges, he could be an attractive option for the Pacers, potentially allowing them to trade Bennedict Mathurin, who is due to become a restricted free agent this summer.
If Memphis is not interested in Mathurin, the Pacers could consider a trade involving Jarace Walker along with draft picks to acquire Edey. The dynamics of any trade will largely depend on Memphis’s valuation of Edey and whether they view him as untouchable in negotiations.
Another potential target for Indiana could be backup center Santi Aldama. The 25-year-old Spaniard has shown promise this season, averaging 14.0 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, while shooting nearly 34% from three-point range. His contract spans three years at a total of $52.5 million, with this season’s salary at $18.49 million. To secure Aldama, Indiana would likely need to offer a combination of Walker, Isaiah Jackson, and Ben Sheppard to align salaries.
The Indiana Pacers have yet to solidify their long-term center strategy. With Memphis’s depth at the position, now could be an opportune moment for Indiana to explore trading options that could enhance their roster. As discussions around Morant evolve, the Pacers’ involvement may prove significant in shaping both their future and that of the Grizzlies.
