The Utah Jazz had a trade lined up for John Collins. As it turned out, the Sacramento Kings had a deal in place to get him. However, things likely changed once the latest about De'Aaron Fox trade drama came out.
It makes sense that the Kings pulled out when they realized they may have to trade Fox because there'd be no point in acquiring Collins if the playoffs are no longer possible. However, HoopsHype's Michael Scotto didn't shut the door on a potential Collins trade to Sacto happening.
Scotto confirmed that the Kings tried to trade for Collins while also confirming that it's not clear what their current plans are with Collins.
"Before the latest news on Fox, Sacramento was trying to upgrade its roster by discussing trades with the Brooklyn Nets for forward Cam Johnson and the Utah Jazz for forward John Collins, league sources told HoopsHype. It’s unclear how Fox’s trade market will affect Sacramento’s discussions for Johnson and Collins," Scotto wrote.
So, a trade isn't necessarily dead between the two sides. It's just been put on the back burner for now. The Kings have another week before they decide on their next move. If they plan to move Fox while still trying to make the playoffs, Collins could help them.
But what package could the Jazz expect back for Collins?
If the Kings resume their chase for Collins, the Jazz have to be realistic about what they should expect back for him. Utah shouldn't expect much back for Collins. As long as they don't get a big contract(s) for a worse player(s), that might be satisfactory return for Collins.
If the Jazz wind up getting Kevin Huerter, whose paid less but is in the middle of a disappointing season, along with Trey Lyles (expiring deal), that might be the best they can hope for. It's not a perfect deal for Collins, but it saves the Jazz money and gives them more cap flexibility. If the Jazz hold out for a pick and ultimately get it, that's perfect.
Whether they do or not, knowing how little Lyles cared for Utah during his time with the team, it'd be somewhat cathartic to trade for him only to waive him if they can't find another taker for him.
Trading season is finally here, and the Jazz are finally getting tied to some some rumors. Collins is the one who is surprisingly getting the most buzz, but that might be because he's the most tradable of their players at the moment.
The only problem is that they may have to wait until the Fox and Jimmy Butler dramas are resolved before they get their chance to trade their guys.