Life in the NBA can change on a dime. Former Iowa basketball forward Kris Murray found that out the hard way.
On Monday, news broke of a blockbuster NBA trade involving the Memphis Grizzlies and the Portland Trail Blazers. The Grizzlies are dealing two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant to the Trail Blazers in exchange for forward Jerami Grant and Kris Murray.
For Portland, it’s a move that signals they’re swinging for the fences and ready to start winning consistently. Morant has some injury and off-the-court issues, but is a talented player when available. The Grizzlies are getting off his contract and get to recoup a little value with Murray, a former first-round pick.
BREAKING: The Memphis Grizzlies are trading two-time NBA All-Star Ja Morant to the Portland Trail Blazers for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/FJOTzGe5Tr
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2026
The trade officially ends Murray’s tenure in Portland. He appeared in 188 games as a Trail Blazer, making 50 starts. He averaged 5.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.7 steals per game over those three years. He’ll now get the opportunity for more playing time on a rebuilding Grizzlies squad. Murray should see some extended run as Memphis sets itself up for the 2027 NBA Draft.
It’s a huge year for Murray’s future in the NBA. He’s entering the final year of his rookie contract and is set to be a restricted free agent next summer. A breakout year in Memphis could get him paid next offseason. Struggles could put his NBA future in jeopardy.
Only time will tell which team comes out on top in this trade. Murray will do his best to ensure that the Trail Blazers regret giving up on him.
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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Former Iowa basketball star involved in NBA blockbuster trade
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