NBA Draft Rumors: Jazz, Darryn Peterson, Pacers, Thunder

Jazz

Darryn Peterson may be trying to put some draft speculation to rest.

After reports surfaced suggesting he wasn’t interested in landing with the Jazz, the former Kansas star revealed Monday that he met with Utah over the weekend.

Peterson had already worked out for the Wizards, who own the No. 1 pick, but his meeting with the Jazz is notable given some of the chatter surrounding his preferred destinations.

He also addressed those rumors directly.

“I’m definitely not dodging any team,” Peterson said Monday. “Whoever takes me, I’m going to come in and be delighted to be there.”

Whether the Jazz believe him may not matter. If Peterson is available at No. 2, Utah is expected to give him serious consideration. As in, remarkably serious.

Of course, he may never get that far.

Multiple reports continue to indicate the Wizards are giving increased consideration to selecting Peterson first overall instead of former BYU star AJ Dybantsa.

Pacers

The Pacers currently don’t own a pick in this year’s draft. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll stay on the sidelines.

According to Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star, Indiana could explore ways to acquire a second-round selection.

Moving into the first round appears less likely given the cost, but a second-round deal could be easier to pull off.

Jarace Walker‘s name has surfaced as one possible trade candidate if the Pacers decide to pursue that route.

Thunder

Could the Thunder be looking to move up?

According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, Oklahoma City has discussed a potential trade with Dallas that would send the Nos. 12 and 17 picks to the Mavericks in exchange for the No. 9 selection.

The idea makes sense for both sides.

The Thunder already have one of the deepest rosters in the NBA and may not have room for multiple first-round rookies. Consolidating assets into a higher pick could be the cleaner path.

Meanwhile, Dallas continues building around Cooper Flagg and might welcome the opportunity to add two young players instead of one.

With less than 24 hours until the draft, it’s the type of conversation worth keeping an eye on.

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