Utah Jazz
Utah Jazz Receive: G Russell Westbrook, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: G Mike Conley, C Kelly Olynyk, G Jordan Clarkson
Meanwhile, this deal has been in the running for some time as well. With that said, recently, it may have caught a second wind.
Before, the idea that the Utah Jazz may be rebuilding was purely speculative. Until they moved Donovan Mitchell, it was always possible that they intended to retool around him rather than initiating a long-term rebuilding process. Now, Mitchell is officially a Cleveland Cavalier.
That leaves the Jazz with little incentive to keep their veterans. By contrast, the Lakers have every incentive to land them. If Westbrook was the poorest possible fit alongside James, Mike Conley may be the antithesis – his elite floor spacing will complement him perfectly.
Of course, the same goes for Kelly Olynyk. Conversely, Jordan Clarkson’s inconsistent three-point shooting may make him an imperfect fit, but every contender could use a strong sixth man. In all likelihood, the Lakers would maximize the minutes that Clarkson was on the floor without James.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Los Angeles Lakers & Utah Jazz Updates
Unlike Westbrook, he probably won’t demand a starting spot at the expense of the team’s functionality.
