The Utah Jazz, currently struggling with a record of 15-35 in the Western Conference, surprised many by becoming active buyers ahead of the NBA trade deadline on Thursday. The team has secured Memphis Grizzlies power forward Jaren Jackson Jr., a strategic move by CEO Danny Ainge that signals the start of a new competitive phase for the franchise.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Jackson, who won the 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year award, was included in an eight-player trade. He will join the Jazz alongside shooting guard John Konchar, center Jock Landale, and point guard Vince Williams Jr. In return, the Jazz have traded away rookie point guard Walter Clayton Jr., small forward Kyle Anderson, power forward Taylor Hendricks, power forward Georges Niang, and three future first-round draft picks.
NBA insider Jake Fischer reported that the draft picks going to the Grizzlies include a 2027 pick from the Los Angeles Lakers, the most favorable 2027 pick among the Jazz, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, as well as a 2031 pick from the Phoenix Suns.
This season, Jackson has played 45 games, averaging 19.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, and one steal per game.
Jaren Jackson Jr. trade may be key to Jazz recovery