SALT LAKE CITY UT- NOVEMBER 23: Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Utah Jazz looks to pass around Bojan Bogdanovic #44 of the Detroit Pistons during the first half of their game November 23, 2022 at the Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Chris Gardner/ Getty Images)
One Year Later: Grading the Utah Jazz trade of Bojan Bogdanovic with the Detroit
Nov 9, 2018; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward Kelly Olynyk (9) drives the ball around Indiana Pacers forward Bojan Bogdanovic (44) during the second half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Future outlook for the Utah Jazz
Kelly Olynyk’s future with the Utah Jazz will impact future of the Utah Jazz. Right now the trade isn’t bearing any long-term fruit, even if Olynyk signs an extension with the team. He’s in his early 30s and isn’t long for the league. He has a few years left, but he’s closer to the end of his career than the beginning.
The only way the trade can develop a long-term option is if Olynyk gets traded once again, which is very likely. His contract makes him one of the most likely trade options on the team, and if the Jazz can turn him into a superstar of sorts like a Zach LaVine, or draft capital, then the trade for him will be seen in a much better light.
Future outlook for The Detroit Pistons
The Pistons and Bogdanovic are in the same situation the Jazz are in. Bogdanovic is likely a few years away from retirement and is in the last year of his fully-guaranteed contract. 2024-2025 will see his contract only partially guaranteed, and that just adds to the likelihood of him getting traded.
Considering the Pistons aren’t likely to be playoff contenders in the next year, or even two, it’s unlikely that the team retains him. Even if they did, he’s not moving the needle on this team. They lack the talent needed to take the next step. Holding onto him will only hurt them in the long run.
