The 2024–25 NBA season was a challenging one for the Utah Jazz, culminating in a 17–65 record, the worst in franchise history. It didn't help that the Jazz missed out on the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, instead falling to the No. 5 spot, essentially meaning they will miss out on drafting future star Cooper Flagg.
Despite the struggles and bad luck, the organization demonstrated unwavering faith in head coach Will Hardy, extending his contract through 2031. This commitment signals a long-term vision, but the Jazz must now pivot from rebuilding to reloading by targeting superstar players.
With a promising young core, including Lauri Markkanen, Collin Sexton, and Walker Kessler, and a wealth of draft capital, Utah is well-positioned to make a significant move. The time is ripe for the Jazz to package assets and pursue a bona fide superstar who can elevate the team back into playoff contention. We will explore five bold trade ideas that could bring a true superstar to Salt Lake City and stun the NBA landscape.
Going All-In For Ja Morant
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts after a basket during the second quarter against the Golden State Warriors at FedExForum.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts after a basket during the second quarter against the Golden State Warriors at FedExForum.
Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Utah Jazz Receive: Ja Morant
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Keyonte George, KJ Martin, 2025 First-Round Pick (No. 21 Overall), 2027 First-Round Pick (UTA), 2027 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2029 Second-Round Pick (UTA)
The Utah Jazz could consider a bold move to acquire Ja Morant, a superstar point guard who averaged 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game during the 2024–25 season. Morant's explosive athleticism and playmaking ability could provide the Jazz with the star power they've been seeking since losing Donovan Mitchell.
Sure, Morant's season was marred by a hip injury sustained during the playoffs, and his off-court issues have been a point of contention in the past, but he is still an elite offensive player. The Jazz simply do not have a player on the roster who can compare to Morant in terms of skill level.
In exchange, the Jazz would part with promising young guard Keyonte George, forward KJ Martin, and multiple first-round picks, including the No. 21 overall pick in the 2025 draft. This package offers the Memphis Grizzlies a chance to rebuild around new talent and accumulate valuable draft assets.
For the Jazz, acquiring Morant would be a high-risk, high-reward move that could either elevate them to contender status or set them back if issues arise. However, in a league ruled by star power, GM Danny Ainge might have to take this risk because a starting lineup featuring Ja Morant, Collin Sexton, Lauri Markkanen, and Walker Kessler would be tough to handle.
A Backup Trade For Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives to the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) drives to the basket against the Los Angeles Lakers in the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Utah Jazz Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Keyonte George, KJ Martin, 2025 First-Round Pick (No. 21 Overall), 2027 First-Round Pick (UTA) , 2029 Second-Round Pick (UTA)
If the pursuit of Morant doesn't materialize, the Jazz could turn their attention to Trae Young, who led the NBA with 11.6 assists per game and averaged 24.2 points during the 2024–25 season. Young's exceptional playmaking and scoring ability would provide the Jazz with a potent offensive weapon.
The proposed trade would involve sending Keyonte George, KJ Martin, two first-round picks, and a second-rounder to the Atlanta Hawks. This deal would allow the Jazz to acquire a proven All-Star while the Hawks gain young talent and draft capital to retool their roster.
Integrating Young into the Jazz's system would require adjustments, but his offensive prowess could be a significant asset. The new starting lineup would look complete, as in the case with Morant, with Trae starting alongside Sexton, Markkanen, and Kessler.
Creating An Ultra-Big Lineup With Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (11) smiles after a timeout against the Boston Celtics in the second quarter at the Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (11) smiles after a timeout against the Boston Celtics in the second quarter at the Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Utah Jazz Receive: Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings Receive: Keyonte George, John Collins (Sign-and-Trade), 2025 First-Round Pick (No. 21 Overall), 2027 First-Round Pick (UTA)
Another intriguing option for the Jazz is acquiring Domantas Sabonis, who led the league with 13.9 rebounds per game and contributed 19.1 points and 6.0 assists during the 2024–25 season. Sabonis's versatility as a scorer, rebounder, and facilitator would complement Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler in the frontcourt, creating a formidable trio.
The trade would involve sending Keyonte George, John Collins (via sign-and-trade), and the two picks to the Sacramento Kings. This move would bolster the Jazz's interior presence and provide a unique offensive dynamic in terms of outside and inside scoring.
Spacing and defensive considerations would need to be addressed to maximize the effectiveness of this big lineup, but we don't see this being an issue for the Jazz. Luckily for them, Markkanen started his career as a small forward and is more than capable of holding that position down in a huge lineup.
Praying For Zion Williamson's Health
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) shoots a technical free throw against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) shoots a technical free throw against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Utah Jazz Receive: Zion Williamson
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: John Collins (Sign-and-Trade), Cody Williams, 2030 First-Round Pick (UTA), 2031 First-Round Pick (UTA) , 2029 Second-Round Pick (UTA), 2030 Second-Round Pick (LAC)
The Jazz could also consider trading for Zion Williamson, who averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in just 30 games during the 2024–25 season due to a back injury. Williamson's talent is undeniable, but his injury history raises significant concerns about his long-term availability. However, Danny Ainge and the Jazz can't accept having the worst team in franchise history, they have to go all-in.
In this scenario, the Jazz would send John Collins (sign-and-trade), KJ Martin, two first-rounders, and additional future picks to the New Orleans Pelicans. Acquiring Williamson would be a gamble, banking on his ability to stay healthy and contribute at a high level.
If successful, this move could transform the Jazz into a powerhouse because Zion will slot into another big lineup with Markkanen competing at the small forward spot and Walker Kessler down low.
A Fair And Safe Trade For Jonathan Kuminga
May 12, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) stands on the court before a play against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
May 12, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) stands on the court before a play against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter during game four of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center.
Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Utah Jazz Receive: Jonathan Kuminga
Golden State Warriors Receive: John Collins (Sign-and-Trade), 2031 First-Round Pick (PHX), 2031 First-Round Pick (UTA)
Lastly, the Jazz might target Jonathan Kuminga, who averaged 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds during the 2024–25 season. Kuminga's athleticism and defensive potential make him an appealing addition to the Jazz's young core.
His performance in the playoffs, including a 30-point game, showcased his ability to step up in critical moments, but Steve Kerr simply doesn't rate the future star for a myriad of reasons that likely include the player's inability to play well alongside Stephen Curry.
This proposed trade would involve sending John Collins (via sign-and-trade) and the two first-round picks to the Golden State Warriors. This deal offers a balanced approach, acquiring a promising player without sacrificing multiple future assets.
Kuminga's development alongside Markkanen and Kessler could provide the Jazz with a solid foundation for sustained success, and it covers both a win-now move and a long-term goal of remaining competitive.
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