By Ashir Hassan,Total Apex Sports

Copyright yardbarker

Ja Morant is a star of the Memphis Grizzlies and is about to make one of the biggest decisions of his career, negotiating his next NBA contract. However, this time there is a twist. As several sources have reported, Morant intends not to hire an agent but to represent himself.

This is dramatic and bizarre, and has created controversy throughout the league. Others see it as the manifestation of confidence and solvency, while others fear that it might make it more complicated during one of the most significant negotiations of his life.

Why Not Use An Agent?

According to sources near Morant, he feels that he knows his market value and would like to make all his own career decisions. This would also allow him to save the traditional agent fees of 3 to 5 percent on the earnings of the contract, which players pay.

This strategy is not new. LeBron James has negotiated some of his deals, but the majority of star players still use agents to maintain negotiations and business when not on the court.

What Might the Next Deal Of Morant’s be?

Morant can be offered a supermax extension if he satisfies the performance standards (All-NBA recognition). That would land him a deal of more than $250 million pending salary cap increment. A typical max contract would even give his next transaction one of the largest contracts in the league.

The Risks of Going Solo

Although it may save Morant tens of millions in commissions by bypassing an agent, it has its dangers:

Difficult negotiations- NBA contracts involve performance bonuses, injury insurance, as well as player team options, which demand skill.

Relationship management – Agents will usually act as some kind of buffer in case of heated negotiations between the player and the front office.

Endorsements – A number of the agents will get sponsorship and marketing contracts, which Morant might have to negotiate separately.

Morant would require good legal counsel and NBA Players Association advice without an agent to make sure nothing is overlooked.

What are Fans and Analysts Saying?

Reactions have been split. Some fans hail Morant as taking risks and maximizing his income. Critics, however, fear that going around an experienced negotiator would expose him to other unfavorable contract terms.

Analysts warn that although highly marketable players such as Morant hold a special bargaining power, collective bargaining regulations and cap exceptions can be difficult to work around, even when they are seasoned professionals.

The fact that Morant will negotiate his next contract without an agent is not merely a strategy regarding money, but rather a declaration of independence. Should it work, it would become a precedent that other NBA players will follow.

Nonetheless, as there is a possibility of supermax extension on the line, the move has its own risks that cannot be ignored. This much at least is certain: Morant is not only gambling on his ability on the court, but also at the negotiating table.