Lakers Legend Says Getting Traded is 'Traumatic' in NBA, Questions How Ja Morant Would Fit with LAL

Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Derek Fisher asserted that being traded in the NBA is a "traumatic experience" that's more difficult than fans realize.

In addition to his 18 years as a player, Fisher served as president of the National Basketball Players Association and has coached in the NBA and WNBA. He has some additional perspective when it comes to a star such as Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant, who's the subject of heavy speculation.

"Sometimes change is needed or required and it might not be a bad thing," Fisher told TMZ Sports. "Sometimes you need a change of scenery and new challenges put forth, and we'll see how it plays out."

While they don't appear to be a serious suitor for Morant right now, the Lakers are always linked with any star who's on the market. They could also involve themselves in a Morant deal as the third team that sees them improve the roster in a smaller way.

Asked about the idea of the 26-year-old playing in L.A., Fisher was skeptical about his on-court fit with Luka Dončić long term and cited the presence of LeBron James as another obvious consideration right now.

One way or another, a resolution about Morant's status is soon to arrive. The trade deadline is Thursday at 3 p.m. ET.

Assuming Morant is still on Memphis by Thursday evening, that will put the rumors to bed for a few months. Depending on how the rest of the season unfolds, it might only be a temporary reprieve as the rumors could fire back up in the summer.