Utah Jazz depth chart: How does their starting 5 look after getting Russell Westbrook?
Following the NBA trade deadline, the Utah Jazz depth chart looks very different. Numerous players were shipped out and the team also brought in a multi-time All-Star and former MVP.
Outside of the Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving trades, the Jazz were part of one of the biggest deals of the deadline. They sent Mike Conley to the Minnesota Timberwolves while Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt were routed to the LA Lakers. Among the pieces that came back to Utah in the three-team deal was Russell Westbrook.
After the trade, the biggest change to the Utah Jazz depth chart was their backcourt. With Conley and Beasley gone, their main guard rotation consists of Westbrook, Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton.
Along with Westbrook, the Jazz also received Damian Jones and Juan Toscan-Anderson. However, it is unlikely they will get much playing time with Utah this season. Their frontcourt rotation is already solidified with All-Star Lauri Markkanen, Kelly Olynyk and rookie standout Walker Kessler.
Utah Jazz depth chart could change again before the end of the season
While the Utah Jazz depth chart changed dramatically at the deadline, it could change again before the season is over. Primarily when it comes to Russell Westbrook.
Since the Jazz are gearing for a rebuild, many are expecting Russell Westbrook to be bought out in the coming week. This would open up more playing time for some younger players and allow Westbrook to join a more competitive team.
According to the latest reporting, it is still uncertain about what will happen with Westbrook moving forward. Tony Jones of The Atheltic cited that the two sides have spoken and are open to all avenues. It was also said that the All-Star guard is willing to suit up for the team moving forward.
"Justin Zanik says the Jazz have met with Russell Westbrook and his representation. The Jazz are currently open to every possibility. Westbrook has expressed a willingness to play for the Jazz. The two sides are still working through it. No decisions have been made"
This is an important year for Westbrook seeing that he will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Playing for the Jazz might give him more opportunities to show that he still has something to give an NBA roster.
Following his move to the bench, it seemed he had turned a corner for the LA Lakers. In 49 games as the sixth man, he averaged 16.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.7 assists.