Report: Jazz & Knicks Having 'Conversations' on Multi-Player Trade
With the trade deadline only five days away, the rumors keep coming in like clockwork revolving around the Utah Jazz. The latest is from NBA Insider Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype regarding a potential multiplayer exchange with the New York Knicks.
“The Knicks and Jazz have had exploratory conversations surrounding Obi Toppin, Evan Fournier, and draft pick compensation for Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt, league sources told HoopsHype.”
Vanderbilt and Beasley continue to be the names that are frequently mentioned in the Rumor Mill. Both players are on a team-friendly contract and offer skill sets on the court that are in high demand.
The Jazz may be looking to get rookie Ochai Abaji a clear path for more minutes on the court. Abaji has been showing signs that he’s ready for starter minutes with his recent emergence.
On Friday night, Abaji scored 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting in just 24 minutes of action. Trading Beasley would create more opportunities for the 2022 first-round draft pick.
Vanderbilt could be the odd man out in Salt Lake City with Walker Kessler being inserted in the starting lineup. The Jazz are thin at the position that Vanderbilt plays, but Utah will be looking for a starting forward that can help space the floor with Kessler on the court.
Poppin could be a nice fit for the Jazz. The former No. 8 overall pick of the 2020 draft isn’t getting minutes to develop in New York playing behind Julius Randle. A change of scenery could be just what the doctor ordered for Poppin, who has a skill set that makes more sense to pair with Kessler. Poppin is currently shooting 37% from long distance on the year.
Where there’s smoke, there’s fire, and it appears Beasley and Vanderbilt could be on their way out of Salt Lake City.
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