The J-Notes
Fansided

Evaluating the “tradability” of each Utah Jazz player

By Jared Woodcox

MIAMI, FL - JANUARY 7: Derrick Favors #15 of the Utah Jazz makes his entrance before the game against the Miami Heat on January 7, 2017 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Oscar Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images)
MIAMI, FL - JANUARY 7: Derrick Favors #15 of the Utah Jazz makes his entrance before the game against the Miami Heat on January 7, 2017 at American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Oscar Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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SALT LAKE CITY, UT – DECEMBER 23: Ekpe Udoh #33 of the Utah Jazz attempts a free throw in the second half of the 103-89 win by the Oklahoma City Thunder at Vivint Smart Home Arena on December 23, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – DECEMBER 23: Ekpe Udoh #33 of the Utah Jazz attempts a free throw in the second half of the 103-89 win by the Oklahoma City Thunder at Vivint Smart Home Arena on December 23, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images) /

Ekpe Udoh

Much like Thabo Sefolosha, Ekpe Udoh has been very much a pleasant surprise this season. Though he was viewed as somewhat of a risky and unforeseen signing, at just $6.5 million over two years, he was quite the bargain to begin with. And quite honestly, he’s been just about everything the Jazz could ask for at the backup center position, if not more.

His defense has been solid as he’s served as a worthy rim protector for Utah’s second unit and has filled his role perfectly. Udoh’s become an extremely nice piece for the Jazz and I don’t believe they’ll put any sort of emphasis on trading him. He’s certainly a guy who could contribute for the Jazz this year, next year and beyond.

With that being said, though, much like was the case with Jonas Jerebko, it’s not like Udoh is absolutely untouchable. He’s played great, to be sure, but perhaps that and his friendly contract will only help the Jazz be able to get a surprisingly nice return. If such an opportunity arises, then Utah shouldn’t be afraid to deal Udoh.

Nevertheless, I don’t see Udoh being that highly sought after despite his solid play and, as I mentioned, I don’t see Utah being at all hot to trot on moving him off the roster. Barring an unbelievable offer, I wouldn’t expect to see the Jazz part ways with Udoh this season.

Verdict: Tradable, relatively valuable, but unlikely to be moved