Utah Jazz: Four Possible Solutions to Improve Frontcourt
Trade for Paul Millsap
Let me start this first option out by saying that while fans and the media can speculate as much as they want, there’s no telling whether the Jazz truly have any plans or consideration of moving Favors. I, for one, am of the opinion that while he’s been pretty downright bad this year, I don’t think the dominant power forward from 2015-16 is completely gone and it’s more likely than not that Utah will hold onto him.
On the other hand, the Jazz have fared quite well in his absences and stretches of poor play, so perhaps if the team’s brass deems it necessary, an upgrade wouldn’t be so far out of the question.
But even if they do decide to move him, due to his issues this season, they likely won’t have many suitors. Nevertheless, it’s still possible that the right fit could pay significant dividends.
One potential fit could be a trade for Paul Millsap. When the veteran power forward was on the trade block last month, some speculated that a reunion with his former Jazz team could be an ideal fit. The Hawks have now supposedly taken him off the trade market, but it wouldn’t be shocking if they were still willing to deal him.
But the Hawks have been playing surprisingly well of late after many thought they’d look to blow up the roster after trading Kyle Korver, so perhaps moving Millsap is no longer in the cards. Nevertheless, Atlanta probably still fully realizes that its current group isn’t going to be enough to get them past the Cleveland Cavaliers in the East, so a rebuild could perhaps be imminent.
If such was the case, the Jazz could profit from adding a familiar face in the savvy vet who has made a name for himself since leaving Utah.
The Jazz would more than likely have to part with more than just Derrick Favors to make the deal happen, but perhaps a talented shooting guard such as Rodney Hood or Alec Burks who the Jazz have also proven very capable of winning without could be used to sweeten the deal.
Yet I’m torn on whether that would be a wise decision for the Jazz and even in a rebuild have a hard time seeing Atlanta parting ways with their All-Star forward for two injury-prone players.
Nevertheless, under the right circumstances a Favors for Millsap swap could benefit both teams and is an option that the Jazz should at least look into if hoping to make a significant improvement in their frontcourt.