Jazz Exploring Trade Options Ahead of NBA Draft, Per Report

Holding four selections in next week’s NBA Draft, including the No. 5 overall pick, the Utah Jazz are weighing multiple trade possibilities, according to Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune.

Appearing on the Locked On Jazz podcast Thursday, Larsen detailed a series of preliminary discussions the Jazz have held with various teams.

Among them: conversations with the Los Angeles Lakers surrounding a potential deal involving big men Walker Kessler or John Collins; talks with the Dallas Mavericks regarding guard Collin Sexton; and exploratory dialogue with the Philadelphia 76ers about a possible move up to the No. 3 pick.

According to Larsen, a deal with Philadelphia would likely be tied to the 76ers’ desire to shed salary, specifically a possible sign-and-trade involving veteran forward Paul George.

“I do think it’s true that the Philadelphia 76ers are interested in trading down to No. 5 potentially if they can get off the Paul George deal,” Larsen said. “That may not make sense given how long that contract is and how I think Paul George was [last year]. I don’t think the Jazz are going to take that offer, but I do think that’s an offer that’s been presented.”

The Jazz currently hold picks Nos. 5, 21, 43, and 53 in the June 26-27 draft. While discussions occurred, Larsen noted on social media that none of the talks had reached advanced stages.

Utah, in the early stages of a rebuild, is widely expected to be active both on draft night and throughout the offseason. Whether that includes moving a foundational piece or simply shuffling draft position remains to be seen.