Ja Morant Talks Getting Into Nature in Video After Trail Blazers Trade From Grizzlies

Portland Trail Blazers point guard Ja Morant says one unexpected positive of his trade from the Memphis Grizzlies has been getting into outdoor activities in Oregon.

"I feel like it's a very quiet spot. It's nice... I've been kind of into nature, so I feel like that's a bonus for me, also," Morant told reporters Saturday (h/t ESPN's Ben Golliver).

Morant continued: "I'm not hiking, but I can go walking, ride a bike. I've been kayaking, lately."

Morant was traded to the Blazers on June 29 in exchange for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray.

NBA insider Chris Haynes reported at the time the Blazers are planning on a starting backcourt of Morant and Damian Lillard, who is expected to make his return from the Achilles injury that sidelined him last season, with Deni Avdija on the wing.

Head coach Micah Nori told The Athletic's Jason Quick shortly after the trade he felt the Blazers were "going to get the best version of Ja."

Morant said Saturday he felt his arrival in Portland was "like starting all over again," per Golliver.

The Trail Blazers will hope that fresh start, and the chance to play alongside a fully healthy Lillard, will help Morant bounce back from his last three injury-limited seasons in Memphis.