BREAKING NEWS: Los Angeles Lakers Power forward Markieff Morris
is the odd man out for the Los Angeles Lakers now with the Denver Nuggets, also sent a Shocking message to Los Angeles Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick and the Entire Los Angeles Lakers Team Concerning his….see more
BREAKING NEWS: Markieff Morris Sends Shocking Message to JJ Redick and the Entire Lakers Team After Departure to Nuggets
Los Angeles, CA — June 29, 2025
Markieff Morris, the veteran power forward who played a gritty and reliable role off the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers during his two separate stints, is officially no longer part of the purple and gold family. The 34-year-old forward has inked a one-year deal with the reigning Western Conference champions, the Denver Nuggets—a move that surprised many within NBA circles, but even more so, came with an emotional and pointed message directed at his former team and new Lakers Head Coach, JJ Redick.
The Move to Denver: Unexpected Yet Calculated
The Denver Nuggets, still reeling from a narrow loss in the Western Conference Finals, are gearing up for a renewed title run. Sources close to the organization say the addition of Markieff Morris is more than just a veteran depth move; it’s about leadership, playoff toughness, and locker room accountability—traits Morris has long been known for.
Morris, whose game has aged with a bruising grace, averaged 7.1 points and 4.3 rebounds per game last season with the Lakers. While his stats weren’t eye-popping, his ability to defend multiple positions and his emotional edge were crucial in stabilizing the Lakers’ second unit.
But despite these intangibles, Morris found himself squeezed out of the Lakers’ evolving rotation as the team pursued younger talent and looked to redefine its identity under newly appointed Head Coach JJ Redick.
Morris Speaks Out: “This Ain’t What It Used to Be”
Shortly after the official announcement of his signing in Denver, Morris took to social media to break his silence and send a sharp message:
> “L.A. ain’t the same anymore. No disrespect, but loyalty and fire don’t seem to matter in that building no more. I gave everything I had—played through pain, showed up for the young guys, never ducked the smoke. I hope JJ [Redick] knows what he’s walking into.”
Morris followed up his post with a more detailed statement during his introductory press conference with the Nuggets, elaborating on his decision to leave and the disillusionment he felt during the Lakers’ transitional offseason:
> “I’ve been in this league long enough to know when a team’s moving in a different direction. JJ’s a bright mind, no doubt, but there’s a difference between being a player and managing a locker room full of guys who’ve seen it all. The Lakers got talent, but talent don’t always win. Culture wins. Brotherhood wins. I didn’t feel that anymore, and that’s why Denver feels like the right spot. They know who they are. I ain’t here to be the star, I’m here to help win it all.”
Redick Responds with Class
When asked about Morris’ comments, Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick remained composed and diplomatic, stating:
> “I’ve got tremendous respect for Markieff. He’s a champion, a competitor, and a guy who always plays with heart. Change is hard. We’re building something here that’s going to take time, and unfortunately, not everyone fits into that timeline. I wish him the best in Denver. I’m sure he’ll be a big asset to them.”
Inside the Lakers Locker Room: Mixed Reactions
According to team insiders, Morris’ departure has left a void among the Lakers’ veteran core. Austin Reaves, speaking to reporters during a summer workout session, said:
> “Keef was one of the realest dudes on this team. He kept us honest. Always had your back. His voice mattered, especially when we were struggling. Gonna miss him for sure.”
However, some within the organization suggest that Morris’ strong personality occasionally clashed with the direction the front office wanted to move, especially with Redick’s modern, analytics-driven, player-centric approach to coaching. Morris, who thrives in old-school grit and accountability, may have felt increasingly out of place in a Lakers culture shifting toward youth and fluidity.
Looking Ahead: Nuggets Gain More Than a Role Player
With the Nuggets already boasting a deep roster led by MVP Nikola Jokić and rising star Jamal Murray, Morris’ addition provides them with not just depth but mental toughness that could make the difference in the playoffs. His past championship pedigree with the Lakers in the 2020 bubble run only solidifies his credentials as someone who knows how to perform under the brightest lights.
For the Lakers, it’s yet another test in a summer full of changes. With Redick tasked with rejuvenating a team stuck in a cycle of inconsistency, the pressure is on to show that the new culture he’s building can produce results without the steadying influence of veterans like Morris.
As the 2025-2026 NBA season approaches, all eyes will be on the first matchup between Denver and Los Angeles—a reunion that promises fireworks, physicality, and perhaps a little revenge.
Stay tuned.