October 1, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz power forward Paul Millsap (24, left) poses with head coach Tyrone Corbin and center Al Jefferson (25) during media day at the Zions Bank Basketball Center. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE
Today, there are 30 teams in the NBA, between six different conferences. As Jazz fans know very well the Utah Jazz have historically been one of the top teams in the league. Of the 30 teams, only 16 make the playoffs. Utah was so fortunate to have a team make a 15 consecutive playoff run. As typical critics are counting out the Utah Jazz, as pointed out by my colleague Tyson Newman in the article “Utah Who?”. I think we have a tremendous team with great talent and remarkable potential. I think as the Jazz are currently they are seventh or eighth in the playoffs. However I think there are some things we can do and will do. I believe that a trade will happen at the all star break this year. Given that there are roughly 450 players in the NBA there are numerous possibilities for trades of current and future players. Right now the Utah Jazz has 6 guards (not counting the inactive Raja Bell), 5 forwards, and 3 centers.
Over a series of articles I will explore both the possible and ridiculous. First thing I want to cover is the trade value of the current roster.
February 4, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant (24) is defended by Utah Jazz shooting guard Raja Bell (19) during the second half at EnergySolutions Arena. The Jazz defeated the Lakers 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE
Shooting Guard Raja Bell 6ft 5in – This one time stellar defender garnering honors like 2007 all-defensive 1st team, and 2008 all-defensive 2ndteam. Kobe Bryant’s one time bane now he remains under contract with his $3,480,000.00 salary not even participating in practice or sitting on the bench. Though his skills and a player are borderline lackluster, Raja presents a win, win as far as trades go. He can be used in a series of options, from creating a trade exception or helping offset a large salary, best of all he only has one year remaining on his contract. His trade value is a – B, Value as a player for the Jazz F, likely hood of being traded – A
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October 1, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz guard Alec Burks (10) during media day at the Zions Bank Basketball Center. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE
Point Guard Alec Burks 6ft 6in – This young up and coming talent has shown sparks at time. However for the time being he is more of a role player off the bench. His 3 year $2,111,160.00 salary is more of an asset to the Utah Jazz. Though he may have trade value for teams, the Jazz would most likely not trade him. His trade value – C, value as a player for the Jazz B, likely hood of being traded – C
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October 1, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz forward DeMarre Carroll (3) during media day at the Zions Bank Basketball Center. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE
Small Forward DeMarre Carroll 6ft 8in – Carroll is an energetic player that earned some starts last year for the Jazz. He does tremendously well as a role player, and due to his streaky game play, will do great coming off the bench. His 1 year $885,120.00 salary makes him idea for retaining as a player or using him in a trade with his huge upside. His trade value – B, value as a player for the Jazz B, likely hood of being traded – C
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October 1, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz small forward Jeremy Evans (40) poses for a portrait during media day at the Zions Bank Basketball Center. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE
Small Forward Jeremy Evans 6ft 9in – He has earned the nickname the human pogo stick. This is partly due to with his impressive win at the NBA’s 2012 slam dunk challenge. His athleticism and vertical leap have gained him a place in Jazz fans hearts. One of his most notable plays became viral as he blocked a shot, then went down the court to finish the play, and then came all the way back down the floor to deflect the ball preventing an easy two. His 3 year $1,794,872.00 salary is more of an asset the Jazz. With his upside and improved play it is doubtful the Jazz would trade him. His trade value – C, value as a player for the Jazz B, likely hood of being traded – C
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October 1, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz forward Derrick Favors (15) poses for a portrait during media day at the Zions Bank Basketball Center. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-US PRESSWIRE
Power Forward Derrick Favors 6ft 10in – Favors is one of the best players on the Jazz. Last season Favors was the bright light at the end of the playoff series verses the Spurs. The Spurs would take advantage of the Jazz weak spots, regardless Favors would post impressive numbers. His continued improved play and talent make him ideal as a long term franchise player. His 2 year $4,753,320.00 salary is easy to handle with what he brings to the table. Despite his very high trade value, the Jazz are looking to him as a long term player. His trade value – A, value as a player for the Jazz A, likely hood of being traded – F