The Utah Jazz have a long, rich history of emphasizing continuity in their quest for an NBA championship. Since the days of John Stockton and Karl Malone, this has not been an organization that’s likely to broker a trade deadline blockbuster. In an NBA that is trending increasingly towards rapid player movement, there are benefits in familiarity.
The Jazz aren’t likely to break the bank this season, partly because they don’t have a bank to break. This veteran heavy outfit is high on rotation players they already need, and low on draft capital. Their next first round pick is owed to Memphis, with rolling protections through to 2024 (although with top 6 protection in 2022, it’s almost certain to convey next year). They owe the Oklahoma City Thunder their next pick, which has to convey by 2026.
In other words, this team won’t be picking in the first round again until 2024 at the earliest. On the one hand, that pick would be an appealing trade chip for any rebuilding club. On the other hand, parting with it comes with substantial risk on the Jazzmen’s end.
Regardless, the Jazz may very well do something. Reports indicate that they’re in the market for another defensive-minded wing player, and there should be several on the trade market.
Assuming the Utah Jazz don’t sell the farm to acquire one, we’re looking at some more realistic targets in this article. For example, Cam Reddish has been the subject of many trade rumors, but don’t expect to see his name here. The cost of acquiring the 22-year-old recent lottery pick is likely to be too prohibitive for the Jazzmen.
Here are 4 budget options the team could target on the trade market.