Utah Jazz: A far-too-early look at potential free agent targets this summer

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 07: Derrick Favors #15 of the Utah Jazz brings the ball up court during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on March 7, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

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Trevor Ariza

Current Team: Houston Rockets

Status: Unrestricted

What I like:

The things I like about Trevor Ariza are pretty cut and dry. He’s an excellent three-and-D player capable of locking down opponents’ best perimeter player then going on to making them pay on the opposite end of the floor with his solid shooting. Ariza is experienced, knows how to win and is essentially the ideal role player.

On top of all that, he’s on an extremely friendly $7.4 million contract and could potentially be had for a similar amount next season.

What I don’t like:

If Ariza wanted to play in Utah and could be had for the exact same price, I don’t know that I would have anything to say here. I really think from a pure basketball standpoint, he’d be a perfect fit on this Jazz squad. Unfortunately, I have a hard time seeing Houston aiming to part ways with him, especially if they go deep into the playoffs this year. Even if they did, I doubt Utah would be at the top of his list.

I guess the only other negative would be that he’s approaching 33 years old, so his best years may be far behind him, but based on his consistent production over the past five years, I’d be willing to bet he still has a lot left in his tank.

Final Thoughts:

I really would like the Jazz to go after Trevor Ariza, but I don’t see him being on board.

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