NBA Trade Deadline Day Early Predictions 2024: 5 bold moves Utah Jazz could make
The Utah Jazz have been slugging it out in the Western Conference, still in the hunt for a playoff spot midway into the ongoing season with a .500 mark of 20-20. But there is no denying that if they are to take their campaign to another level this year and even beyond, they have to make moves to shore up its roster.
While they already have capable players in various positions, which includes All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen, sixth man of the year Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton and John Collins, getting players via trade to tie some loose ends and make their attack more compact surely would not hurt.
Players Utah Jazz could target through a trade
Here are five options:
#5. Davion Mitchell
At the stage where they are, the Utah Jazz should seek a young player who can help right away while providing something for the future. Guard Davion Mitchell of the Sacramento Kings should provide some of that if they get their hands on him.
Mitchell was a key part of the rotation of the Kings early this season until Keon Ellis took some time away from him, which will make it easier for the Jazz to get him if ever they decide to.
In the 30 games he has played so far, the former Baylor player has been going for 3.4 points and 1.8 assists in 12.3 minutes. But more than the numbers, his defensive quickness and aggressiveness could provide a boost from the bench for Utah.
#4. Terry Rozier
If the Utah Jazz want to go for instant impact, Terry Rozier of the Charlotte Hornets fits the billing. With his ability to create shots not only for himself but also for his teammates, guys like Markkanen and Clarkson should benefit from his presence.
The Hornets are currently struggling with an 8-28 record, 13th in the Eastern Conference, and may welcome a trade for their veteran guard. And if Utah can build a package to acquire him, it should go for it.
In the ongoing NBA season, Rozier has been steady for 24.3 points, seven assists and 1.1 steals in 36 minutes.
#3. Alex Caruso
Defensively, guard Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls should provide an upgrade for the Utah Jazz in the event of a trade.
The 29-year-old Texas A&M player has been steady for 9.9 points, 3.5 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 25 minutes of play in the ongoing season, numbers Utah could use to bolster its backcourt play whether as a starter or off the bench.
Caruso is a total energy guy, who could be what the team needs to shake up its middling ways.
#2. DeAnthony Melton
Much like what a Rozier trade could give, getting DeAnthony Melton from the Philadelphia 76ers should benefit the backcourt rotation of the Utah Jazz.
Melton is a shot-creator who can also get the job done on the defensive end. Another thing about him is that he does not disrupt things and can adapt to any situation he is put in.
In the 32 games he has played so far this season, he has been going for 12 points, four rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.7 steals in 29 minutes.
#1. DeMar DeRozan
If the Jazz are interested in going for another All-Star to bolster its campaign, a guy like DeMar DeRozan may not be a bad choice to acquire via trade.
The six-time All-Star is a steady scorer and solid defender who can play alongside players with the skills set of a Markkanen and a Collins.
For this season, he has been good for 22 points, 5.4 assists and 1.1 steals. The Bulls have had their struggles and may consider trading their top scorer for an attractive package.