Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal

Realistically, the Utah Jazz’s interest in this deal is entirely contingent on their assessment of Kevin Porter Jr.

If they see a player with star potential who simply has some personal demons to work through, they’ll be interested. On the other hand, if they see a problem, they’re likely to pass.

After all, they’re receiving solid draft capital here, but they’re not receiving a bounty. Unfortunately for them, the Rockets owe their first-round picks in 2024 and 2026 to the Oklahoma City Thunder. They won’t be allowed to send much more draft capital to Salt Lake City.

With that said, Porter Jr. did flash real star potential down the stretch in 2021-22. He’s a talented ball-handler who also thrived in catch-and-shoot situations throughout the season.

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Furthermore, Josh Christopher is an intriguing player in his own right. He may not look the part of a future star, but he does project to be a solid, two-way rotation guard for a long time in this league.

Should the Rockets really part with him, in addition to everything else they’re parting with here, just to land Mitchell?