Kelly Olynyk Mock Trade Gives Jazz More Young and Future Assets

Despite the Utah Jazz front office seemingly being satisfied with big man Kelly Olynyk's production in 2022-23, anything is possible during an NBA offseason. Jazz GM Justin Zanik told reporters earlier this offseason that he would "anticipate that we would be having [Olynyk] back," along with being "really happy with Kelly’s contributions" from the season.

Sometimes though, opportunities arise that cause a change of heart. In an offseason where many teams could be frantic to make moves to improve the state of their respective teams, an opposing GM could offer the Jazz something for Olynyk that's just too hard to pass on.

Looking at the big picture, Olynyk also may not have a true long-term future with the Jazz. Sure, the front office seems happy with his current production, but being on the last year of his deal and recently turning 32-years-old, history tells us he likely won't have longevity in Utah.

The logical move for Olynyk if he stayed past this upcoming season would be to test the free agency market and join a team with higher championship expectations. With this in mind, the Jazz should at least entertain offers for the veteran stretch big this summer.

In this case, Olynyk could be a great fit for the Milwaukee Bucks. Considering their most recent first-round exit embarrasment, the team has already begun making changes by firing championship head coach, Mike Budenholzer. The Bucks could also decide to improve their shooting and frontcourt depth by bringing in Olynyk to the squad.

Utah Jazz recieve: Pat Connaughton, MarJon Beauchamp, future SRP

Milwaukee Bucks recieve: Kelly Olynyk

In this potential deal, the Bucks cash in on some one of their young assets in Beauchamp in order to bring on more size and experience in Olynyk. Having a big man rotation of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, and Olynyk could help round out the rotation. After struggling to keep up with the 8-seeded Miami Heat after losing Giannis, adding more talent up-front would be wise.

As for the Jazz, they're able to capitalize on the value of an expiring deal by adding a recent first rounder in Beauchamp. Utah is also able to capitalize on a salary dump by acquiring Pat Connaughton (due over $27 million over the next three seasons) by adding a second round pick to their already extensive draft capital.

For a team on the bubble of making the play-in at the 11-to-12 seed range, establishing a better direction this offseason could hugely benefit the Jazz. Cashing in on a productive veteran like Olynyk could be the perfect way to commit further to a rebuild and maximizing assets.

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