The J-Notes
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Utah Jazz: A way too early look at the 2019 NBA free agency

By John Keeffer

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 07: Tobias Harris #34 of the Los Angeles Clippers controls the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center on April 7, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 07: Tobias Harris #34 of the Los Angeles Clippers controls the ball during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Staples Center on April 7, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images) /
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Nikola Mirotic – New Orleans Pelicans

Many Jazz fans will remember that there appeared to be mutual interest between Nikola Mirotic and the Utah Jazz as the 2018 Trade Deadline was approaching. Unfortunately, depending how you want to look at it, the Jazz were unwilling to make the trade happen because the Chicago Bulls were demanding that a first round pick be attached.

The New Orleans Pelicans then swooped in and were able to acquire Mirotic from the Bulls in exchange for center Omer Asik, guards Jameer Nelson and Tony Allen, and a first-round pick.

At the end of this season, however, Mirotic will become an unrestricted free agent, and the Jazz will once again have the opportunity to acquire him.

His ability to stretch the floor would be ideal in Utah, and he could be a huge uptick to an already competent Jazz offense. Prior to the trade to the Pelicans last season, Mirotic was averaging  17 points and 6.4 rebounds, while shooting an astounding 43 percent from three point range. He is a career 35.7 percent three point shooter, and outside of his first season in the league, has never shot below 34 percent.

As much as we all love Derrick Favors, it is not likely that he will ever be able to shoot the three ball even above 35 percent. Price wise, I would expect Mirotic to garner no more than 15 million or so annually on his next contract. If the Jazz are ready to move on from a traditional two-big lineup, Mirotic is one of the best options out there.

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