Report: Jazz Trading Mike Conley, Malik Beasley & Two More
According to ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski, a trade is being finalized involving Utah Jazz players Mike Conley, Malik Beasley, Nickeil Walker-Alexander and Jarred Vanderbilt.
“ESPN Sources: The Lakers are finalizing deal to land Minnesota’s D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Jarred Vanderbilt in trade including Mike Conley and picks to Timberwolves and Russell Westbrook and a lightly protected 2027 LA first-round pick to Jazz.”
It appears the Russel Westbrook domino falling is a forgone conclusion with Utah getting the coveted 2027 “lightly” protected pick in return. Jazz executive Danny Ainge was rumored to want the draft pick last summer when the Westbrook-to-Utah rumors started. LeBron James will be long gone and the Lakers should start filling the effects of the draft capital that was sacrificed in the Anthony Davis exchange with the New Orleans Pelicans.
The trade also clears a path for guards Collin Sexton and Ochai Agbagi to get starter minutes moving forward. The Jazz should still be able to stay competitive, but it's a trade for the future assuming Westbrook is bought out.
With the trade deadline tomorrow, February 9, it seems shooting guard Jordan Clarkson may stay in Salt Lake City. The former Sixth Man of the Year can opt out of his deal this year, but Utah must feel fairly confident it can re-sign its second leading scorer if he’s not moved tomorrow.
Also, Kelly Olynyk is a player to keep an eye on. Olynyk’s name has surfaced in multiple rumors and being part of an exchange may still be in the cards.
A lot of questions were answered tonight, but with “Trader Danny” at the helm, Jazz fans will play “wait and see” for what’s in store tomorrow.
