The NBA offseason often brings more speculation than certainty, and this year is no different. The Utah Jazz sit at a crossroads, exploring bold roster moves that could reshape their future—and, intriguingly, possibly benefit the Los Angeles Lakers. Recent reports suggest that both veteran stalwarts and emerging talents are on the table. Here’s an in-depth look into the situation and what it could mean for both franchises.
1. A Strategic Reset in Salt Lake City
With the 2025 NBA Draft looming, the Jazz find themselves armed with valuable assets, including the No. 5 overall pick. They recently bolstered their coaching staff, adding Steve Wojciechowski under Will Hardy , signaling a possible shift toward a long-term vision.
League insiders indicate that Utah is open to trading not only draft picks but also key players—with veterans on expiring contracts naturally drawing interest. But what’s more striking is that even cornerstone pieces like Walker Kessler and All-Star Lauri Markkanen could be made available .
This openness isn’t just PR; it’s part of a calculated approach. Austin Ainge’s front office appears determined to retool through any means necessary, weighing the value of future flexibility against current productivity. As Sarah Todd of the Deseret News warns, the Jazz “won’t be doing that” (tank), meaning they’ll compete but also catalyze roster changes .
2. The Veterans on the Chopping Block
The Jazz have a few key players whose contracts mature next season, making them prime trade candidates:
John Collins – A skilled forward averaging strong numbers. His expiring deal and versatility make him attractive trade bait .
Collin Sexton – A scorer who could fit into many contenders. League chatter confirms “individual” trade interest in Sexton .
Jordan Clarkson – Another veteran guard on an expiring contract, drawing numerous inquiries .
These players could serve as immediate pieces or sweeteners in return packages—as Utah eyes more draft capital.
3. The Bigger Surprise: Markkanen & Kessler Available?
Most surprising is the suggestion that the Jazz are “willing to listen” on big names previously regarded as untouchable:
Lauri Markkanen – The All-Star forward on a hefty deal is now reportedly “isn’t not available,” per The Ringer’s Bill Simmons . His size, shooting, and versatility would be appealing; his contract negotiability is the question.
Walker Kessler – A premier rim protector and rebounder, Kessler remains extension-eligible. Reports suggest Utah might entertain offers involving multiple first-round picks—“at least two first-round picks” to pry him away .
Making either available dramatically signals that Utah is serious about reshaping its trajectory and is prioritizing future upside over established talent.
4. LA on Alert: Could the Lakers be the Partner?
The drumbeat grows louder: the Lakers have long desired a quality center. Enter Walker Kessler. Earlier this season, Lakers-Nation reported that LA had already reached out . Their interest aligns neatly; pairing Kessler with Anthony Davis would fortify LA’s interior presence significantly.
But Utah is asking a steep price: two first-round picks—or perhaps more. Lakers Nation mentioned the urgency for Lakers to “blow the Jazz’s mind” with an offer, as Kessler’s talent and youth make him a rare asset .
On the flip side, Houston, Golden State, and other contenders are potential suitors for the veteran wings on expiring deals. Those players could easily be funneled into trades for picks or young talent that Utah desires .
5. What Industry Insiders Say
Commentators place Utah in an active shopping mode:
“Numerous league sources… the Jazz are willing to hear offers that would include draft picks in the 2025 draft as well as players on the Jazz’s current roster.”
“Around the league, people seem to feel like Markkanen isn’t not available.”
“Michael Scotto confirmed these rumors and added Walker Kessler… would need at least two first‑round picks.”
Such reporting suggests Salt Lake is deeply active—not just open, but ready to act.
6. Timeline & The Draft Leverage
As SLCDunk notes, talks have already started and could intensify closer to draft night. Utah could seek to move down from No. 5 to accumulate more picks, using expiring contracts as collateral .
Timing is critical. If a team like LA is serious, they must structure a deal before draft-day rosters solidify. For Utah, maximizing draft capital before other contenders circle is key.
7. Strategic Implications for Both Teams
For the Jazz
A deal involving Markkanen or Kessler transforms their roster makeup, creating flexibility for rebuilding or recalibrating.
Acquiring extra picks accelerates youth movement—aligning with Ainge’s talent accumulation strategy .
However, trading either could erode short-term competitiveness and fan goodwill.
For the Lakers
Gaining a two-way big like Kessler fixes a glaring structural weakness and complements their title window.
The cost in draft capital (especially unprotected firsts) would constrain future roster moves and depth.
If Utah demands Markkanen instead, LA still improves spacing—but loses financial flexibility due to his contract.
8. What Could A Deal Look Like?
A conceptual Lakers–Jazz negotiation could involve:
To Utah:
Two future first-round picks (e.g., 2027 and the Lakers’ 2029 top‑four protected)
Young rotation player(s) or second-round picks
To LA:
Walker Kessler (long-term rim Protector) or
Lauri Markkanen (All-Star spacing big)
Alternatively, Utah may sell a veteran wing (Collins/Sexton/Clarkson) to gain picks or tradeable young players.
9. The Fans’ Perspective
For Jazz fans, it’s bittersweet. Trading a beloved star like Markkanen or rising anchor Kessler would be a jolt—but it may be necessary for long-term growth and flexibility. Meanwhile, Lakers fans could see a chance at a transformative addition that accelerates a title chase.
10. Final Verdict – What Happens Next?
With draft night approaching, we expect:
- Utah to field offers on Collins, Sexton, and Clarkson, using them as trade chips for picks.
- Active whispers from LA, Houston, Golden State and others about Markkanen/Kessler.
- Utah leveraging draft position (#5) to maximize return.
- A blockbuster is possible—especially if LA meets Utah’s demanding price.
If negotiations stall, Utah can still pivot: staying put in the draft and keeping core pieces while adding veteran depth later. But if history is any guide, the Jazz remain open to creativity—and disruption.
In Conclusion
“Jazz Veterans Could Reportedly Be Shopped In Trade Talks as they’re set to join LA passionately Due To…”
What began as offseason rumbling is becoming more serious. With veterans available and star players potentially on the block, Utah is signaling an all-in approach toward recalibration. For the Lakers, this presents a tantalizing chance to transform their frontcourt quickly.
Ultimately, this summer may prove watershed for both franchises—one aiming to build sustainably, the other to capitalize immediately. All eyes are on draft night: where flexibility meets urgency, and bold moves may just define the next chapter.
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