Jazz Decision To Land 2031 Pick Done With Long-Term Flexibility In Mind

Utah’s motivation for trading with Phoenix on Tuesday is clear — building long-term flexibility while offloading lower-tier draft assets, per Marc Stein and Jake Fischer of The Stein Line. The Jazz entered the deal with an embarrassment of riches, holding 13 future first-round picks over the next seven years.

By packaging three of their least valuable picks — likely to fall in the late 20s — Utah swapped them for a future first-rounder that has the potential to be far more appealing, depending on how Phoenix’s trajectory unfolds over the next several seasons.

As Stein and Fischer reported, the picks sent to Phoenix in the deal are all expected to land in the 20s, with the pick they acquired from Cleveland in this year’s draft likely to fall at No. 29 or No. 30.

While these selections provide some value, they don’t carry the same weight as a future pick with the potential to become a lottery selection if Phoenix’s fortunes take a downturn by 2031.

So the trade gives Utah the flexibility to either stash additional assets for later use or consolidate them in future deals for higher-value players.

Jazz CEO Danny Ainge has built a reputation for accumulating draft capital, and this trade continues that strategy. Moving out three late firsts for a more uncertain but potentially more valuable pick down the line allows them to keep their options open for both immediate and future moves.

It’s a calculated bet that Phoenix’s current situation won’t remain static, with the Suns likely needing to make significant moves in the coming years to stay competitive.

For Utah, this deal is less about what they give up now and more about positioning themselves for future success. Basically, by 2031, that unprotected pick from Phoenix could turn into a goldmine.