Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal
The question for the Jazz here isn’t “why” – it’s “why not”?
After all, there’s a benefit for this rebuilding club here no matter what they’re getting in return. It’s a case of addition by subtraction. Removing Clarkson from the roster opens up opportunities for their younger players.
Clarkson is a ball-dominant, high-usage player. If he’s on the floor for the Jazz next year, he’s going to want the ball, and he’s going to try to score. Meanwhile, any possession he dominates is a possession that could have been dominated by a younger player.
By contrast, Graham is a more willing passer. He’s more likely to facilitate growth within the Jazz’ youth movement.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Moreover, if he’s performing well late into the season, the Jazz could move him leading up to the deadline. For now, they might as well do themselves, another team, and Clarkson a favor by moving him.
They won’t get a first-round pick for him anyway – those are hard to come by these days.
