Utah Jazz Receive: F RJ Barrett, G Evan Fournier, 2022 First-Round Pick (NYK), 2023 First-Round Pick Swap (NYK), 2024 First-Round Pick (NYK), 2024 First-Round Pick Swap (NYK)
New York Knicks Receive: G Donovan Mitchell
All does not appear to be well in Salt Lake City. If the Utah Jazz fail to impress in this year’s postseason, radical change may be afoot for their organization. If they’re forced to deal Donovan Mitchell, they’ll need a massive haul in return.
This would qualify. RJ Barrett is a rising star in this league. His points per game have increased in all 3 seasons of his young career to date. Granted, this year’s increased volume came with decreased efficiency, but he still had a strong individual season.
Barrett may never be a No. 1 option on a contending team. That’s perfectly fine. He profiles as a high-end second or third banana. This deal gives the Jazz several opportunities to find their new leading man in the draft.
Between their inevitably poor record (and improved lottery odds) and the additional picks they’re receiving from the New York Knicks, they’ll be positioning themselves perfectly to rebuild through the draft.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Knicks Among Ideal Destinations For Jazz Star Donovan Mitchell
Trading a star in their prime is never ideal. The Jazz will likely move mountains in an effort to convince Donovan Mitchell to stay in Utah. It may not matter. If he’s intent on demanding a trade, there’s probably little the organization could do to sway him.
If that holds true, this NBA trade scenario gives them a head start on what might be a tedious rebuild.
