Trail Blazers send message to NBA about roster plans with Ja Morant

When Ja Morant was traded to the Trail Blazers, NBA fans had a few questions. 

What? Why? How? 

There were theories about Portland's plans after trading Kris Murray and Jerami Grant for the enigmatic superstar. Would they go after Jaylen Brown to pair him with Morant? 

A new report from Marc Stein says that may not be a possibility after the Blazers announced their loyalty to one of their veteran leaders. 

Trail Blazers say they're keeping Jrue Holiday after Ja Morant trade

It was rumored that Portland would give up Holiday, Shaedon Sharpe, and Scoot Henderson in a deal for Jaylen Brown. 

But NBA insider Marc Stein reports that "Portland has already been messaging to interested parties that it intends to keep Jrue Holiday after trading for Ja Morant."

This would eliminate that potential package and, in turn, vaporize Portland's ability to acquire Brown. 

Jrue Holiday is a two-time NBA champion and is heralded for his veteran leadership. Especially with a team like the Trail Blazers, he's been invaluable to team culture. 

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With a controversial talent like Morant coming in, it could be smart to retain Holiday to tie everything together. 

On the other hand, Jaylen Brown is not going to make the team worse. After a breakout campaign from Deni Avdija and a tough first round series against the Spurs, Portland may be passing up a chance to go all in. 

Either way they move forward, it will be with Ja Morant. And that's enough risk for a lifetime.

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