PJ Washington
If the Utah Jazz are shopping Rudy Gobert, they may call the Hornets before they talk to anybody else. Buzz City is in desperate need of a big man.
For one like Gobert, they may sell the farm. In all likelihood, PJ Washington would be the starting point in any conversation. The Jazz would be lucky to add the 23-year-old. He’s a three-point shooting combo forward/big who can guard multiple positions. He’d be invaluable for this team whenever they’re reading to compete again.
Much like with Golden State, the Jazz won’t be able to straight swap Gobert for Washington. With the latter entering restricted free agency, this deal would require a sign-and-trade. Still, Washington is not going to command the kind of annual salary that Gobert does this summer.
In all likelihood, Gordon Hayward’s contract would be required for matching. A reunion with the Jazz may not be in the veteran wing’s best interests if they’re rebuilding.
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On the other hand, if Donovan Mitchell is open to staying in Salt Lake City, they could retool, replacing Gobert in a separate transaction. Otherwise, a three-team deal may be in order.
The Jazz may not feel like Washington is sufficient compensation for Gobert. They’d probably be right. They can also ask for more. Kelly Oubre Jr may be available in addition, or if they’re rebuilding, James Bouknight is a recent lottery pick collecting dust on Charlotte’s bench. Whichever route they’re taking, PJ Washington would be a critical part of it.
