5 Trades to clear the Utah Jazz’s big man logjam

Utah Jazz, Damian Lillard, Kelly Olynyk. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Utah Jazz, Damian Lillard, Kelly Olynyk. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /
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Utah Jazz, Damian Lillard. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Jazz get Herro in Lillard blockbuster

Damian Lillard has requested a trade, and he reportedly only wants to play for the Miami Heat. The seven-time All-Star lacks a no-trade clause, so the Trail Blazers can send him to whatever team offers the best package. Will they grant Dame his request? Only if it makes sense for the organization.

Portland does not want Tyler Herro because they have Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and Anfernee Simons in their backcourt already. The Trail Blazers are hoping they can flip him to a third team for additional draft capital, which could present an opportunity for the Jazz.

Utah gives up Kelly Olynyk, Simone Fontecchio, and one first-round draft pick to get Tyler Herro. If the 6’5 guard can take his game to another level in Salt Lake City, the Jazz could flip him for even more as he enters his prime. Things may not work out, but it is a small price to pay for a 23-year-old guard that has already averaged over 20 points per game for two straight years.

This trade lands Lillard in Miami and helps the Blazers get a bit more in return. Portland lands two recent first-rounders plus three future ones. If they want the best package, they might not have to look further than Salt Lake City.