3 Jazz players who may have played their last game in Utah

Rudy Gay

Rudy Gay is another impending free agent entering the offseason. The longtime NBA journeyman has played a couple of seasons in Utah, but after the trades of Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, it seemed inevitable for the forward to move on at some point.

Gay averaged 5.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assist in 56 games with the Jazz this season. The 36-year-old played in 56 games but only averaged 14.6 minutes per game, a career low for the UConn product. While his usage was low in the regular season, Gay offered great veteran leadership to a young roster, and perhaps that’s why the front office elected to keep him around the whole season.

Nonetheless, with the 6-foot-8 playmaker on the backend of his career, it will come as no surprise if the vet signs with a contender for one last chance to contend for a championship. If Gay elects to continue his playing career, he could be a good bench signing for a team looking to make a run at an NBA championship. Despite his age, Gay still looks like he could be a viable depth option for other teams. While his run in Utah wasn’t long, the wing will likely leave the organization with plenty of supporters behind him.

Kelly Olynyk

Kelly Olynyk may be one of the most interesting pieces to analyze as the NBA offseason approaches. The 6-foot-11 versatile center had one of the best years of his career with the Jazz this season. Averaging 12.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 49.9% shooting from FG range and 39.4% from three, the big man played a huge role for Will Hardy and the Jazz.

While it may come as a surprise to some, there’s no guarantee the Gonzaga product will be back in Utah next season. Although Danny Ainge has seemingly been looking to get Olynyk back on his squad since his departure from Boston in 2017, the Jazz executive is also one of the best team builders in the league. Ainge understands the top priority of a rebuilding team is to acquire draft picks, and regardless of his relationship with the 32-year-old, if a trade partner has interest in Olynyk, it’s almost guaranteed he will be all ears. If any team has the desire for a playmaking big man who can stretch the floor, Olynyk will likely be at the top of the list.

The center was a key role player for the Jazz this year, but the timeline for the team and the former No. 16 overall pick don’t exactly line up. Fortunately for Ainge, Olynyk’s play this past year only increased his trade value. There’s no way to know for sure whether or not he will be back with the Jazz, but the writing seems to be on the wall: If teams inquire, the Jazz will likely listen to offers.