Ja Morant is now a Portland Trail Blazer with physical fitness concerns heading into the new season. He will pair with Damian Lillard giving the Blazers an undersized but feisty backcourt that could pay dividends this season.

Morant's attitude toward having a team-first attitude has been questioned in recent years. He addressed why he believes winning is more important at media day in comments shared to social media.

“I think winning is the most important thing to me, so whatever role I have to play to get that done, I don't think nobody would be mad after so as a starter if I'm startin' or not, it's the same thing. It's day one right now, I feel like that's coach's questions, but for me, I have no problem with that.”

Article Continues Below

Morant's trade from Memphis brought a six-word reaction that was simple and business-like. He is coming off of his lowest-scoring season since 2021 and now will be tasked with remaking himself in a whole new city.

The Blazers are remaking their roster after Nicolas Batum retired, giving coach Micah Nori a chance to shuffle his roster. Portland is feeling humble yet excited for what's to come after they were beaten by Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs during last year's playoffs, as told by star forward Deni Avdija.

This season brings with it a chance to go further in the playoffs, and for Morant to discover a whole new side of his personality, talents, on the court. The Blazers look like an exciting team heading into the season and Morant has the talents, and humble mindset, to make good on that promise.