No NBA team wants to have a bad contract on their books. Yet, it will inevitably happen. Whether a team signs a player or trades for them, sometimes, they may end up regretting their decision.
Look at John Collins and the Utah Jazz. When the Jazz traded for Collins, they were looking for a reclamation project. His production had declined as a member of the Atlanta Hawks, but the Jazz hoped he’d return to form on their squad. So far, that hasn’t been the case.
Meanwhile, Andrew Wiggins of the Golden State Warriors was once seen as having a fair contract. This year, his production isn’t merely matching his pay. The Warriors are struggling as a result. Could they flip him for Collins?
NBA Trade Proposal
Utah Jazz Receive: G/F Andrew Wiggins, 2026 Second-Round Pick (ATL via GSW), 2028 Second-Round Pick (ATL via GSW)
Golden State Warriors Receive: F/C John Collins
How do players end up with bad deals? Typically, they looked worth that price point in a recent stage of their career. Unfortunately, NBA careers are wildly unpredictable. A player can decline while they’re still getting paid for their previous level of production.
Look at Collins. For a couple of seasons, he was among the most efficient offensive players in basketball. Somewhere along the line, his usage declined in Atlanta. Collins hasn’t looked the same since.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: John Collins, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors Updates
It’s a little harder to understand what happened to Wiggins. His play has declined despite no significant change in his circumstances. Should the Jazz add him to their roster anyway?
Why The Utah Jazz Do The Deal
Collins was always a questionable acquisition for the Jazz. He’s a combo big, and this team’s frontcourt is crowded. Between Lauri Markkanen, Kelly Olynyk, and Walker Kessler, it was always going to be difficult for Collins to contribute.
By contrast, the Jazz could use a wing. Wiggins fills a position of need for this team. If he can return to form, he’s the type of 3-and-D wing that this team is missing.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: John Collins, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors Updates
With that said, Wiggins’ deal runs one year longer than Collins’. The Jazz are taking on a financial burden here. That’s why they’re being further compensated with a pair of second-round picks. Should the Warriors give up that draft capital?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
It’s being reported that the Warriors are seeking a big man who can score. Collins somewhat fits that criteria. He’s not a traditional big man, but he can man the 5 in small ball units.
Moreover, he’d add a new wrinkle to this offense. At his best, Collins is a fantastic play-finisher. He can roll or pop out of pick-and-roll sets. Collins could make Steph Curry’s life easier when he’s on the ball.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: John Collins, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors Updates
Sure, there are rotational concerns here. Collins and Draymond Green both primarily play the 4. That’s fine. This is the team that revolutionized small ball. The Warriors could use Collins as a high-minute reserve at both frontcourt positions while having the blossoming Jonathan Kuminga soak up Wiggins’ minutes. This could work – even if Collins is on a bad contract.
