Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal 

This deal does not make the Jazz a better team in 2022-23 – and that’s exactly the point. 

Don’t take that as a knock on either Nance Jr. or Graham. They’re both quality players, but simply put, they’re role players. Neither is likely to give the Jazz a serious boost in the standings in 2022-23. 

Which, again, is perfect: the Jazz don’t want a boost in the standings. They want to draft Victor Wembenyama next summer or at least be in the running to do so. 

Meanwhile, the Jazz can audition the two veterans they’re getting to contenders here. If either plays well, expect them to be playing elsewhere before the trade deadline.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Mike Conley, Utah Jazz & New Orleans Pelicans Updates

Still, this deal is about accomplishing two goals for the Jazz. It helps them bottom out, and it nets them a first-round pick. 

What does it do for the Pelicans?