PHILADELPHIA, PA – DECEMBER 02: Dante Exum #11 of the Utah Jazz dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on December 2, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Dante Exum is both the Utah Jazz’s most likely trade piece and a very difficult one to move. If the team finds a way to pull it off, though, these eight players make for intriguing targets.
Now that the December 15th deadline, upon which all players signed in free agency this past summer can be traded, has passed, NBA trade season is officially upon us. There are already some rather significant names purportedly on the trade block, and with so many teams legitimately believing they can compete for a title this year, it could very well be a busy trade deadline.
The Utah Jazz are a team that has championship aspirations even if they’ve failed to prove themselves worthy of them up to this point. They’ve won three straight and currently post a 16-11 record, but they’re still two games out of a top-four spot in the West, meaning they most definitely have work yet to do.
One of the main reasons they’ve failed to reach their potential has been the atrocious play of their bench. Veterans Jeff Green, Ed Davis and Emmanuel Mudiay have all had moments, but none have been nearly as impressive as many Jazz fans hoped for. However, the disappointments those three have produced pale in comparison to another Jazzman, namely, Dante Exum.
It’s no secret that Exum has had an injury-riddled career that has significantly held him back from reaching his potential. Even so, there were hopes that this season he’d be able to get back to full health and finally consistently produce at the level we’ve seen him at in brief stints such as the 2018 NBA Playoffs and during a great stretch in January of 2019.
Well, instead, by all accounts Exum is healthy, but he hasn’t even been able to remain consistent enough to earn a place in the rotation. His spot has been fully taken by newcomer Emmanuel Mudiay despite his own inconsistent play. The Jazz have invested quite heavily in Exum, at $9.6 million plus potential incentives, but thus far he has failed to come anywhere close to earning it.
As such, Dante seems like the primary player that the Jazz could use to make a trade if they felt the need to pursue an upgrade. Not only is he out of the rotation, but he has significant enough of a salary that he could bring back something of worth in a similar range for the Jazz.
The bad news, though, is that Utah will likely be hard-pressed to find a team that would be willing to deal for Dante. If he can’t get off the Jazz bench, why should anyone believe that Exum could fit in their rotation? Sure, there is the ‘change-of-scenery’ argument, which quite frankly I believe has some validity at this point. But if a team is looking for a tangible difference-maker, it’s hard to provide evidence that Exum fits the bill.
Even so, there’s always a chance that the Jazz could work some magic and swing a deal involving Exum. Teams could be desperate for the picks Utah could include (though even in that regard, they can really only offer slim pickings), or perhaps Exum’s defensive skill could be intriguing enough to get a squad to pull the trigger.
As tough as it may be to pull off, there are some players out there with a salary range similar to Exum’s that may be wise for the Jazz to pursue in a potential trade, so that’s what we’ll observe here in this exercise. I just have three disclaimers before we begin:
- These players all fall within a salary range of $7-$13 million because that seems about the only feasible way to be able to match salaries with Exum in a deal with the Jazz.
- I realize that it’s going to be extremely tough to trade Exum as he’s done nothing to prove he can consistently help a team. Utah would almost certainly have to include future picks or other assets to even get a team to consider taking him, so all these trades are assuming that would be the case. Even so, it’s entirely possible that neither these nor any trade involving Exum is realistic at all.
- Even with that being the case, in these eight cases, I’ve tried to provide a theory as to why each opposing team might be willing to make the deal for Exum. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’re realistic, but they’re far more plausible than just matching up any and every player with a salary similar to Exum’s. For example, as nice as it would be to dream it, teams aren’t going to trade solid players like Fred VanVleet, P.J. Tucker, or Spencer Dinwiddie just because they happen to be in a similar salary range as Exum, so don’t even think about it. Slim though the chances may be, there’s at least a slight possibility of every team being willing to move the player I’ve detailed here.
So with that preface, let’s go ahead and jump right in and look at a few players that the Jazz could consider pursuing in an exchange for Dante Exum.
at this link here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Magic MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>The Orlando Magic have had ample success with the reclamation project of <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/f/fultzma01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Markelle Fultz</a>. Perhaps they’d be willing to take on another and try their luck on former number five overall draft pick Dante Exum?</p>
<p>Not only that, but the Magic, despite being a playoff team last year and currently, are pretty well-mired in mediocrity. If they want to escape that trend, it may make more sense to look to stockpile assets, which the Jazz could include in an Exum trade, rather than hold on to the contract of a veteran Augustin.</p>
<p>Magic coach Steve Clifford is good at getting the most out of his roster and putting guys in a position to succeed, and the Magic may do better planning for the future and investing in more of a youth movement in which Exum would fit. They are in no way a championship contender this year, so Augustin doesn’t really fit into their long term plans. If they were willing to take a risk on Exum, it would do them little harm and could get them an additional pick or two while providing the Jazz with a crafty veteran to aid in their bench struggles and playoff push.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Jae Crowder </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-80791" src=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fthejnotes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1188350383.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1188350383.jpeg 3200w, https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1188350383-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">MEMPHIS, TN – DECEMBER 13: Jae Crowder #99 of the Memphis Grizzlies reacts to a play against the Milwaukee Bucks on December 13, 2019 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>Jae Crowder</h3>
<p><strong>2019-20 Salary: $7.8 million</strong></p>
<p>Now here’s a familiar name for Jazz fans! As odd as it would maybe seem to trade back for a player that was just dealt this offseason, there’s no denying that a lot of what <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/c/crowdja01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 ref="nofollow">Jae Crowder</a> brought last year could be helpful for the Jazz. They have been undersized in the frontcourt, and Jae’s energy, strength and defense could help fill some of that hole.</p>
<p>While Crowder certainly comes with some shortcomings, such as a tendency to over-shoot, there’s no question that he was a help to the Jazz the past two seasons, and bringing him back into the fold over Exum could work wonders for a second unit that hasn’t looked that great. Crowder already knows Quin Snyder’s system and found ample ways to contribute for the Jazz in years past, which could make for an easy transition both on the court and in the locker room.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Grizzlies MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>The Grizzlies are far from win-now mode as their aim is most certainly on the future. Yes, they’ve notched some good wins of late, but at 10-17 at this early juncture they’re far from a frightening opponent or playoff squad. Sure, they’re only two games out of eighth place right now, but as things balance out, I’m confident saying they’ll be a lottery team.</p>
<p>As such, picks, assets and gaining value from players that might leave anyway has to be the priority for the Grizzlies. With Crowder set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer, there’s a good chance he won’t be returning to Memphis next year. His defense and scoring ability, though sometimes streaky, will make him an attractive get.</p>
<p>The Grizzlies figure to be open to dealing at the trade deadline, and they’ve done business with the Jazz before. So if they want to add a defensive wing in Exum, whose contract they certainly are in a spot to handle, along with more prospects for the future, they could very well be interested in engaging in conversations with Utah once again.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Bogdan Bogdanovic </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-80792" src=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fthejnotes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1186741128.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1186741128.jpeg 3200w, https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1186741128-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">SACRAMENTO, CA – NOVEMBER 30: Bogdan Bogdanovic #8 of the Sacramento Kings looks on during the game against the Denver Nuggets on November 30, 2019 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>Bogdan Bogdanovic</h3>
<p><strong>2019-20 Salary: $8.5 million</strong></p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia">
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<p>Alright, so maybe I’m just a little too obsessed with the idea of <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/bogdabo01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 ref="nofollow">Bogdan Bogdanovic</a> teaming up with <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/bogdabo02.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Bojan Bogdanovic</a> to create the Bogey Brothers, but this feels like an exhilarating one for the Jazz. Bogdan is a terrific young playmaker with a sweet stroke as he’s connecting on over 40 percent of this three-point attempts this year while putting up 14.6 points per game.</p>
<p>Bogdanovic would be excellent off Utah’s bench to give them a reliable scoring option and a guy capable of lighting it up and going off from deep. As he continues to develop, he could very well be a prolific addition to a Jazz team and reserve unit that definitely needs some extra juice. Much like the Bogdanovic already on Utah’s roster, Bogdan may not be a lockdown defender, but he’s underrated in that aspect and is a willing defender that would only stand to improve in that area under Quin Snyder.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Kings MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>Honestly, I have a hard time seeing the Kings being willing to part with such a nice, young piece. However, we’ve seen the Kings make head-scratching blunders in the past and it can be difficult to understand some of their decisions. Even so, as they push for a playoff spot, they may be hesitant to deal a proven guy like Bogdanovic for a giant question mark in Exum.</p>
<p>But, the Kings also are facing a bit of a sticky situation in terms of paying all their players. <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/hieldbu01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Buddy Hield</a> recently signed a massive extension, <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/barneha02.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Harrison Barnes</a> is under contract for the foreseeable future and pretty soon they’ll have to pony up cash to pay both <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/f/foxde01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">De’Aaron Fox</a> and <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/baglema01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Marvin Bagley</a>.</p>
<p>With that being the case, as the Kings do their math, they may find that Bogdan Bogdanovic is the odd man out and decide they’d be best to cut their losses now, make a trade and avoid losing him in free agency. If they do so, the intrigue of Exum coupled with future draft selections could entice them into making a move.</p>
<p>The Kings are yet another squad that could use improvement on defense and have the time and setup to work with young players like Exum, so if they, in typical Kings fashion, decide to go against better judgement and move Bogdanovic, the Jazz should definitely try to throw themselves into the mix.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Patty Mills </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-80793" src=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1067,w_1600/https%3A%2F%2Fthejnotes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1193996249.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1193996249.jpeg 1600w, https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1193996249-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – DECEMBER 14: Patty Mills #8 of the San Antonio Spurs celebrates during a game between San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns at Arena Ciudad de Mexico on December 14, 2019 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>Patty Mills</h3>
<p><strong>2019-20 Salary: $12.4 million</strong></p>
<p><a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/millspa02.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 ref="nofollow">Patty Mills</a> just feels like a player that would fit superbly in Quin Snyder’s system. He brings that tough Aussie grit that <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/i/inglejo01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Joe Ingles</a> displays night in and night out, plus he’s a great shooter, relentless hustler and pesky defender.</p>
<p>Combine that with his sweet 41.4 percent shooting stroke from deep and his extensive veteran experience and leadership, and it isn’t hard to see how Mills could totally revolutionize Utah’s bench. Mills is no stranger to big shots or big moments and, as he showed in this summer’s FIBA play, can absolutely carry a team on his shoulders if needed. His fiery passion and incredible skill could work wonders for the Jazz.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Spurs MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>This one feels like a bit of a long shot, but at this point, so do the San Antonio Spurs’ playoff odds. They’ve had a train wreck of a season thus far, and while the bottom of the West is very tightly compacted, it doesn’t feel like a turnaround is coming anytime soon.</p>
<p>As such, many believe the Spurs should just blow it up while they have a chance, perhaps going as far as to move <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/d/derozde01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">DeMar DeRozan</a> and <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/a/aldrila01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">LaMarcus Aldridge</a> in an attempt to hit the reset button and look to the future to re-elevate San Antonio to its former glory days. If they went into fire sale mode, Mills could very well be one of the pieces moved as well.</p>
<p>The Spurs are another team that has had success in the reclamation of players, so perhaps they’d be intrigued by Exum’s potential and feel security in the additional assets the Jazz would undoubtedly have to provide. His defensive intensity would fit well in Gregg Popovich’s system and he could further solidify a strong defensive backcourt group comprised of <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/murrade01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Dejounte Murray</a>, <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/w/whitede01.html" ref="nofollow">Derrick White</a> and <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/f/forbebr01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Bryn Forbes</a>.</p>
<p>If the Spurs go for the all-out tank, Mills will have plenty of suitors. Nevertheless, Exum may provide some interesting aspects that the Spurs like, and the Jazz absolutely should try to insert themselves into the conversation.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Larry Nance Jr. </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-80794" src=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fthejnotes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1189373277.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1189373277.jpeg 3200w, https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1189373277-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">MIAMI, FLORIDA – NOVEMBER 20: Larry Nance Jr. #22 of the Cleveland Cavaliers warms up prior to the game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena on November 20, 2019 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>Larry Nance Jr.</h3>
<p><strong>2019-20 Salary: $12.7 million</strong></p>
<p>One of the Jazz’s biggest weaknesses since giving up <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/f/favorde01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Derrick Favors</a> and Jae Crowder this summer has been their significant lack of size. Ed Davis has been disappointing and <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/bradlto01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Tony Bradley</a> remains unreliable, though recent contests have many wondering if the latter deserves playing time over the former.</p>
<p>Or, the Jazz certainly could look to address their size problem via a trade. And if they did so, they may be wise to take a look at<a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/search/search.fcgi?pid=nancela01,nancela02&search=Larry+Nance&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 ref="nofollow"> Larry Nance Jr</a>. Nance is a guy who quietly puts up good numbers and who does the little hustle things that make a team better. Unfortunately for him, he’s been on bad teams his entire NBA career, but as a role player off the Jazz bench, he could truly thrive in a more promising opportunity.</p>
<p>Nance is a terrific rebounder with an ever-improving three-point shot that is at nearly 36 percent this season. He’d be an excellent defender in Utah’s second unit whose toughness and size could work wonders for a group that has consistently looked overwhelmed. Larry has averaged a per-36-minutes double-double in each of the past five seasons, and that effort and intensity would be well-utilized on the Jazz roster.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Cavs MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>The Cleveland Cavaliers are obviously in a pretty dismal spot right now and need to make drastic changes as they plan for the future rather than the present. Part of doing so could involve stockpiling assets and clearing some payroll. It’s almost hard to believe, but the Cavs actually have the eighth-highest payroll in the NBA.</p>
<p>Finding a trade partner for <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/l/loveke01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Kevin Love</a> would help with that significantly, and they have a lot of high-paid guys that will be free agents this summer. Still, with Nance having three years left on his contract versus Dante’s two, the Cavs may be open to that kind of swap.</p>
<p>Not to mention, Exum could help bring some defense to Cleveland’s otherwise abysmal defensive backcourt, considering that the Cavs are 29th in defensive rating so far this season. Cleveland truly doesn’t have too much to lose or look forward to with this current roster, so if they’re hoping to blow things up further, get rid of some of their bigger contracts and acquire some picks while the Jazz aim to add some size, this could be a beneficial deal for both parties.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Thaddeus Young </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-80795" src=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1067,w_1600/https%3A%2F%2Fthejnotes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1193196742.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1193196742.jpeg 1600w, https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1193196742-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 08: Thaddeus Young #21 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the Miami Heat during the first half at American Airlines Arena on December 08, 2019 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>Thaddeus Young</h3>
<p><strong>2019-20 Salary: $12.9 million</strong></p>
<p><a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/y/youngth01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 ref="nofollow">Thaddeus Young</a> has long been known as one of the more solid and consistent players in the league. He’s not going to set the world on fire with any one of his skills, but he’s well-rounded, great defensively and a sound veteran.</p>
<p>When some Jazz fans were considering Derrick Favors replacements, Thad Young was a guy who frequently came up thanks to his ability to defend both in the post and out to the perimeter, and his improved three-point shot. He certainly has a determination and effort befitting Quin Snyder squads, so he should be a nice fit from that standpoint.</p>
<p>Not to mention, he’d help fill the size void the Jazz are currently dealing with and would bring a higher IQ and defensive ability to Utah’s second unit than anyone can provide currently. As a true power forward, he’d fit nicely with both a strictly reserve group and a combination of starters, while providing the Jazz with excellent versatility against various opponents. Not to mention, as a former teammate of Bojan Bogdanovic’s, he could be a great chemistry fit as well.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Bulls MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>Thad Young was a magnificent piece in Indiana the past three seasons as the ultimate glue guy, but his fit in Chicago has been awkward at best. His numbers have dipped significantly from a year ago as he’s being under and poorly utilized in his new home in the Windy City.</p>
<p>And with the Bulls struggling so mightily this season, they may rethink their addition of the veteran Young and instead look to add more youth and future assets. The Bulls thought that perhaps the veteran presence of Thad and <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/s/satorto01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Tomas Satoransky</a> could help them nab a playoff spot in the East, but thus far they haven’t even been competitive.</p>
<p>Infusing Dante Exum’s defense and effort into an often inconsistent Chicago squad could make more sense for a young team than continuing to not get enough out of Thad. The Bulls need to make changes and Young is easily the most appealing guy on the roster for the Jazz that Chicago may actually be willing to move. The one negative would be the length and amount of his contract, but if he was able to replicate his play in Indiana in Utah as a reserve, he’d be an incredible spark for an often sputtering Jazz squad.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> J.J. Redick </a>
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<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-80796" src=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/https%3A%2F%2Fthejnotes.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F1188346827-1.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1188346827-1.jpeg 3200w, https://thejnotes.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/1188346827-1-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">PHILADELPHIA, PA – DECEMBER 13: JJ Redick #4 of the New Orleans Pelicans looks on during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers on December 13, 2019 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h3>J.J. Redick</h3>
<p><strong>2019-20 Salary: $13.4 million</strong></p>
<p>This one may be the option that excites me the most, and is one that The Athletic’s Tony Jones brought up in <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://theathletic.com/1463114/2019/12/16/jazz-trade-primer-is-this-something-that-can-be-fixed-organically-or-is-the-solution-outside-of-the-roster/">a recent podcast and article (paid subscription required)</a>. <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/r/redicjj01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 ref="nofollow">J.J. Redick</a> has long been renowned as an incredible sharpshooter, and placing him in Utah’s second unit backcourt could help provide them with the shooting, scoring punch and basketball IQ they desperately need.</p>
<p>Redick is also a respectable defender who makes up for what he lacks in size and athleticism with hustle, smarts and effort. He’s an experienced player that could help this team significantly in the postseason as well. The addition of Redick would provide the Jazz with another dead-eye shooter who’s shooting 45.7 percent from the perimeter and would give their bench far more flexibility in the backcourt than they have currently with an out-of-the-rotation Exum.</p>
<p><strong>Why the Pelicans MIGHT do it:</strong></p>
<p>It appears that after the lengthy absence of <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/w/willizi01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Zion Williamson</a> and the horrendous start for the New Orleans Pelicans, they’re open to calling the season lost and preparing for the future. Several reports have indicated that <a href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/holidjr01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-%22 target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener" ref="nofollow">Jrue Holiday</a> is officially on the trade block, and while the team has expressed hesitancy in moving Redick, I’d have to believe they’d be open to it if it advances their long-term goals.</p>
<p>This Pelicans team will be hungry to acquire assets to compliment their young team and build around Zion once he makes his return. If they opt to move on from Redick and utilize Exum to bolster their putrid defense (28th in the NBA), a deal with Utah could very well make sense.</p>
<p>The two teams did business this offseason when Utah essentially gifted Derrick Favors to them, so ideally the two could link up again to find a mutually beneficial move that would help Utah land Redick and the Pelicans work towards their long-term goals.</p>
<div class="fs-shortcode" data-type="StoryLink" data-theme="dark" data-text="Utah Jazz: Five takeaways from victory over Orlando Magic" data-url="https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-takeaways-victory-magic/" data-call-to-action="Next"> <div class="story-link-next"> <a class="story-link-next-btn" style="background: #00265D" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="story-link-next-shortcode" href=https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-eight-intriguing-albeit-difficult-pull-off-dante-exum-trade-ideas/"https://thejnotes.com/2019/12/18/utah-jazz-takeaways-victory-magic/"> <span class="call_to_action">Next:</span> Utah Jazz: Five takeaways from victory over Orlando Magic </a> </div>
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<p>It would likely be quite difficult to pull off, but it’s certainly worth a phone call from the Jazz.</p><!—pageview_candidate—>">