Jazz acquire Josh Green from Timberwolves in three-player trade

The Jazz have been looking for perimeter defense. They just added some.

Utah has acquired veteran wing Josh Green from the Timberwolves in exchange for Cody Williams and John Konchar, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.

Minnesota is also sending cash to Utah in the deal, per Jon Krawczynski of The Athletic.

For the Jazz, it’s a fairly straightforward move. Green, 25, has established himself as a capable perimeter defender and owns a career 38.7 percent mark from beyond the arc.

He spent last season with Charlotte, averaging 4.3 points in 58 games after returning from shoulder surgery. His role was limited, but he shot 42 percent on threes.

Utah could certainly use what he offers. The Jazz have ranked either 29th or 30th defensively in each of the past three seasons and have made improving that end a priority.

They also signed defensive-minded wing Josh Okogie to a two-year deal earlier this summer.

For Minnesota, the trade is mostly about money and Jonathan Kuminga.

The Timberwolves are expected to waive Konchar and stretch his $6.17 million salary over three seasons. Combined with unloading Green’s $14.68 million expiring deal, the moves will create enough room beneath the second-apron hard cap to officially sign Kuminga.

Minnesota will keep Williams, the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, at least for now. The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 8.8 points last season but shot just 21.4 percent from three.

The Wolves have until Oct. 31 to decide on Williams’ $7.67 million option for 2027-28.

So Utah gets a veteran wing who fits an obvious need.

Minnesota gets Kuminga. Sometimes the cap gymnastics actually lead somewhere.