Memphis mayor Paul Young responded to Stephen A. Smith's comments about Memphis amid Ja Morant trade speculation.

Stephen A. Smith brought the local politics of Memphis into the public eye this week while analyzing the city’s NBA team trade of young shooting guard Desmond Bane to Orlando. After Smith alleged that NBA stars (including Jimmy Butler) are not interested in playing for the Grizzlies because Memphis is not the “safest environment,

Several University of Memphis coaches came to the city's defense after comments from ESPN's Stephen A. Smith generated a slew of strong reactions.

The Grizzlies traded Desmond Bane on June 15 and created more roster flexibility. That move has led to rumors and reports, ranging from a potential rebuild to interest in Durant, who is expected to be traded from the Suns this offseason.

The Memphis Grizzlies are not intending to trade for star Kevin Durant, a source with knowledge of the Grizzlies thinking told The Commercial Appeal.

Kevin Durant may have the San Antonio Spurs as one of the potential destinations on his list as he seeks a trade away from the Phoenix Suns, but it remains questionable if the Spurs are willing to make a major splash to acquire him.