Grizzlies GM Zach Kleiman addressed the Memphis media in a "non-streamed" event at FedExForum on Friday (2/6) as part of the close on the NBA trade deadline.
Jeffrey Wright & Kevin Cerrito discussed Kleiman's presser on Friday's JW & Company Show (AUDIO):
Memphis Grizzlies general manager Zach Kleiman addressed the media Friday for the first time since the team executed major moves around the Feb. 5 deadline, including trading longtime cornerstone Jaren Jackson Jr. and engaging other roster discussions. Kleiman emphasized that the franchise is shifting its direction toward youth and long‑term flexibility, calling it an “organizational direction” rather than a reaction to any single player or situation.
On talk surrounding Ja Morant, Kleiman framed the dialogue as ongoing and honest but did not commit to Morant’s return this season, noting that availability remains a medical determination and future conversations will continue.
He highlighted young players like Zach Edey, Cedric Coward, Jaylen Wells, and Walter Clayton Jr. as foundational pieces for the next phase but was careful not to “crown” any individual at this stage.
Kleiman also stressed that the rebuild won’t necessarily be a prolonged, five‑year process, implying confidence in the team’s ability to accelerate growth with the assets now in place.
Next game: the Memphis Grizzlies will be in Portland to take on the Trail Blazers Friday night 2/6 at 9:00 p.m. live on 92.9 FM ESPN