A complete list of trade deadline targets for the Utah Jazz

Utah Jazz Trade Target #2: Robert Covington

With Grant’s candidacy out of the way, we can come back to planet earth to discuss target the Jazz could actually acquire.

Robert Covington absolutely qualifies. He typifies the 3-and-D model that many observers feel the Jazz are missing. His Defensive Box Plus/Minus (DBPM) of 1.4 this season is characteristically stout. His 35.6% accuracy on 4.8 threes per game is sub-elite, but it’s entirely acceptable.

Especially when you consider everything else that Covington brings to the table. He’s one of the most versatile defenders in the NBA. Quin Snyder can formulate lineups using him at any frontcourt position, allowing the Jazz to upsize or downsize at will.

Covington may not be a fringe All-Star like Jerami Grant, but he is probably the best realistic trade target for the Utah Jazz.

Utah Jazz Trade Target #3: Torrey Craig

If the Jazz miss out on Covington, consider Torrey Craig the budget version: the “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Covington!”, if you will.

Please don’t interpret that as a slight on Craig and his abilities. He’s been a solid pro since his arrival in the NBA four seasons ago. His -0.2 DBPM throughout 2021-22 so far is merely solid, but it’s worth noting that he’s only a season removed from posting a 1.6 in that same statistic as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021-22.

His 32.7% accuracy from deep isn’t inspiring either. It also isn’t far off his career mark of 33.0%. He may not be an assassin from long range, but Craig’s smart and cautious shot selection minimizes that issue. He’s also never played in a system that generates as much space as Quin Snyder’s.

Craig wouldn’t be the most exciting acquisition the Utah Jazz could make this season, but he’d still be a positive contributor. If someone makes the Blazers an offer for Covington that the Jazz can’t match, Craig would be a perfect consolation prize.