Kofi Inkoom
According to Michael A. Scotto of HoopsHype, the Utah Jazz are gearing up for a significant roster overhaul ahead of the next season.
Among the expected changes, John Collins is anticipated to be traded this summer, with two additional players potentially on the trade block as well.
Scotto writes, “Utah has a surplus of draft picks in this class that rival executives believe are readily available on the trade market as the Jazz attempt to upgrade the roster.”
He adds, “There’s also a belief from rival executives who spoke with HoopsHype that guards Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson could become available on the trade market.”
Sexton posted impressive averages of 18.7 points and 4.9 assists per game, while also leading the team in games played with 78 last season. His consistent presence alleviated prior concerns about his injury history.
Sexton has demonstrated that he could be a starting guard for many NBA teams. However, with only two years left on his contract, the Jazz might look to strengthen their shooting guard position with a player who can enhance their defensive capabilities.
The Jazz struggled defensively last season, finishing last in the league in defensive rating. The backcourt, featuring Sexton, Jordan Clarkson, and Keyonte George, was a major factor in these defensive woes. Improving this aspect of their game is likely a top priority for the Jazz.
As the Jazz plan to build around key players like Kessler, Markkanen, and future draft picks, trading some of their productive veterans makes sense.
Clarkson, at 32, averaged 17.1 points per game last season, marking his fifth season with the Jazz. During the 2022/23 season, he achieved a career-high average of 20.8 points per game, which led to a two-year, $28.37 million contract extension.
Both Clarkson and Sexton are under contract through the 2025-26 season, making them attractive assets for teams seeking more than just short-term additions.