The Utah Jazz made their biggest trade in years when they acquired Jaren Jackson Jr., but lest we forget, they acquired two other players as well: John Konchar and Vince Williams Jr. They weren't centerpieces, and they acquired them in part to help Memphis save money, so are the Jazz planning to keep them? Early indications are that, yes, they are.
KSL Sports' Ben Anderson didn't necessarily confirm anything, but made it pretty clear that those two will probably stick around. At least for the time being. He first delved into what the bring to Utah.
"Konchar is a 'jack‑of‑all‑trades, master‑of‑none' wing who shoots, rebounds, and defends well enough, and doesn’t disrupt chemistry whether he plays or sits," Anderson wrote. "Williams Jr. is a defensive specialist in the backcourt with real playmaking instincts, though he struggles as a shooter."
Anderson also explained why Williams is more likely to stick around than Konchar.
"Given his near‑minimum salary, Williams Jr. has a strong chance to remain with the Jazz next season and could realistically play his way into the rotation.
"Konchar’s broader but less distinct skill set may carry less value in Utah, especially with Cody Williams, Ace Bailey, and Svi Mykhailiuk already on the wing."
Anderson concluded by writing that it's more likely than not they will be with the team next season.
"While no final decision has been made, fans should expect both Konchar and Williams Jr. to be in Utah next season — even if their exact roles are still unclear."
But will they stay for long?
The Jazz need more defensive personnel. It's why, even with the exciting combination of Jackson and Walker Kessler, defensive specialists like Jeremy Sochan have been floated - not reported - as potential Jazz targets.
Williams and Konchar could be part of that, as Williams is a plus-defender and Konchar isn't too shabby. However, there's a solid chance the Jazz will impress a lot of people next season once they flip the switch. But once they do, their defensive holes may stand out despite the best efforts of JJJ and Kessler, which could push them to make a few more deals down the line.
That would then be the time to flip Konchar's expiring contract, along with maybe Svi Mykhailiuk's, in exchange for someone who helps Utah's defense. They need fortification on that end. It would be great if they could get more two-way players on that end, but they may have to settle for players who help only on defense.
Despite all the tanking nonsense going on, it's become pretty clear that the Jazz have something on their hands. They can take their time to build out a contender, but it already feels like they've done their waiting. If they have the chance to turn their defense into a strength next season, they should take it.
If and when that opportunity presents itself, Konchar and/or Williams might get the boot.