NBA & Fantasy Basketball Loser Lineup: Memphis Grizzlies — time to prioritize Desmond Bane instead of Ja Morant?

The playoffs are where stars rise and weaknesses get exposed. Every defeated team leaves behind stories of promise and failure — the players who stand at the crossroads of potential and uncertainty. We're not here to dwell on the heartbreak of an early exit, but to sift through the aftermath, piecing together what it means for fantasy rosters and spotlighting the players who deserve your attention.

For every team sent packing, we'll analyze one standout player primed for growth and one major question mark that could impact the team's fantasy value.

The NBA offseason is already shaping up to be a drama-filled, rumor-laden affair. This is all about understanding what's next, not just for the teams themselves, but for the fantasy managers who are getting a pulse ahead of the 2025-26 season.

Betting on Bane

Let's not sugarcoat it: Grizzlies fans and fantasy managers had it rough and it's time for change. The Grizzlies were better off not making the playoffs and keeping their first-round pick. And as usual, the injuries piled up — primarily with Ja Morant, who played in only 50 games. Still, I'm most excited for Desmond Bane, who overcame a slow start to finish 32nd in 9-cat leagues, playing 69 games. 

While his scoring volume declined, the efficiency gains are encouraging. He improved his rebounding while also becoming a better playmaker sans Morant. He'd be my first Grizzly off the board next year because I'm under the impression that Morant's future could be in question, which brings me to my next point.

What's happening with Ja Morant?

Morant's future feels like the NBA's most unpredictable soap opera. From his arsenal of problematic off-court antics and celebrations to his inability to stay healthy — whatever happens, it changes everything. Morant commands a 30% usage rate, so there will be a ripple effect throughout the roster whether he's back or not.

If Morant is ultimately dealt, Bane becomes the Grizzlies' offensive engine, which likely means more shots, assists and a higher ceiling. But if Ja sticks around (drama included), Bane's efficiency-first production might remain capped around a mid-third-round fantasy echelon. Scotty Pippen Jr. would also be an intriguing late-round asset. However, finding a trade partner may prove challenging in this climate, as Morant is owed around $126 million over the next three seasons. 

Still, Bane is the guy to circle. The risk? Baked in. The reward? Bane becomes the top fantasy option on a recalibrated Grizzlies roster (I'm not a JJJ guy, sorry).

Stay tuned as we dissect more playoff exits, one team at a time, and help you dominate your draft board.