Winners
Patrick Beverly
Beverly probably did not want to play in Utah. He’s a brash, loudmouth, pest on the court. He’s fit for bigger markets or teams who are competing and value him in the playoffs. The Jazz are neither of those things, and he has a new home, returning to LA. This time, of course, in purple and gold.
As of now, he is second on the Lakers’ depth chart, although that might change soon. A career backup and defensive player, he has carved out extreme success as a gritty player who doesn’t mind being in the trenches. He’s more suited for a win-now team, rather than helping to mentor the next generation of Jazzmen.
Mike Conley
When Patrick Beverly came to town, there was a lot of doubt surrounding Mike Conley. Both are aging stars who want to contribute in some way or another, and there was really no reason to keep them both around. One was going to go.
Conley ends up staying, and I think that move makes more sense for anyone. Conley strikes me as the wise grandfather type who is exactly the veteran leader the young Jazz could use, and Beverly is a fearless competitor who isn’t afraid to make enemies to win. All in all, everyone is where they are supposed to be.
Stanley Johnson
Johnson has never really found a home for himself. In seven seasons, he’s played for four teams. He was only a starter for one season, on the 9th place 2017-18 Pistons, and he has never averaged more than ten points. He is a do-all player, but he isn’t a master of anything.
Getting another fresh start ought to do him good. Aside from 48 games as a Laker with LeBron James, he has never really played alongside a top-tier star. Donovan Mitchell may distract from him a little, giving his career the boost it needs. Plus, on a depleted Utah roster, Johnson may get more playing time than he’s ever had.