Jazz News: John Collins Speaks on Trade: ‘It’s a Big Stress Relief'

With the Utah Jazz’s trade to acquire John Collins from the Atlanta Hawks having been considered official at long last, it has finally allowed him to join up with the team in Salt Lake City. He has since gotten a chance to sit down and discuss his feelings about the deal and the trade discussions around him.

Being in persistent trade rumors with the Hawks over the last few seasons, Collins can finally take a breath of fresh air with the trigger finally being pulled on a deal. With a new, hopeful long-term home in SLC, John actually returns to his birthplace in Layton, Utah.

He talked about his long-awaited escape from his trade rumors and how he can move forward in his career:

“It’s a big stress relief. Obviously, my name’s been in a lot of rumors and whatnot, and it hasn't been easy. So, it’s just been good to finally just get it over with. Obviously starting new in Utah, not trying to think about it too much. Just go forward and try and be the best player I can.”

Collins is coming off his 2022-23 campaign averages of 13.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, and one block per game, hoping for a fresh start in Utah. We have seen past seasons of JC with splits north of 20/10, so we know what he can be capable of at his peak.

A lingering finger injury Collins sustained last season could be a potential culprit in his numbers decrease. His three-point shooting in particular taking a big hit in efficiency . However, he has held his confidence well with hopes to get back to the norm in his first year with the Jazz:

“Obviously, basketball’s a big numbers game. So, I understand people being used to me playing one way. Obviously, not playing up to the standards that are expected...Definitely on me to just get back in the gym and really just tighten my game up. As I said, I’ve never felt like I’ve woken up and just lost how to play the game of basketball."

"My finger, it comes with it. For me, it’s just an injury that comes with playing the game of basketball going into my 7th year now. Honestly, once I get on the court and just play, I really feel like all the noise will be quieted. I’m confident in myself and my game, and nothing is really affecting my confidence going forward with how I think about playing the game."

John placed into Will Hardy’s already talented frontcourt will be a fun watch for Jazz fans. Added with Markkanen, Kessler, Hendricks, and Olynyk, there is lots of size and versatility to be excited for.

Fans should be amped for the next season of Jazz basketball with new faces and new aspirations.

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