3 potential landing spots if Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell requests a trade

Utah Jazz star returns home to Big Apple

There is very much a possibility that “Donovan Mitchell is itching to play in a bigger market” is a code for “Donovan Mitchell would like to play for the Knicks someday”. He’s a New York native. When your hometown also happens to be the biggest market in the NBA, it may be difficult to resist the urge to play there.

In this age of player empowerment, it’s easier for players to determine their own fates. Ultimately, if Mitchell and his camp were to put out the word that they’d only accept the New York as a landing spot, they may be able to get him there. Luckily, the Knicks could offer the Jazz a number of intriguing packages.

If Utah’s front office prefers to stay competitive, something built around Julius Randle and another solid veteran or two could get a deal done. On the other hand, should the Jazz opt to rebuild, R.J. Barrett, Mitch Robinson, Immanuel Quickley and a boatload of first-round picks and/or pick swaps might grease the wheels.

This also feels like a situation that may call for a three-team deal. If Randle, Alec Burks and/or Evan Fournier don’t pique Danny Ainge’s interest, could Randle and Buddy Hield? If the previously mentioned rebuilding package doesn’t suffice, could adding Cam Reddish into the fold do the trick?

There are a lot of possibilities in play here. Hopefully, the Jazz don’t have to consider any of them.

After all, the Utah Jazz are surely comfortable in their current position. They’re one of the best teams in the National Basketball Association. If Donovan Mitchell ever does request a trade, however, that might be forced to change.