Collin Sexton is set to be a key Utah Jazz player hitting the trade market this offseason, and it’s no surprise. While it’s too early to definitively say whether Sexton will be moved, an intriguing proposal has emerged: a trade between the Utah Jazz and Boston Celtics that might just solve a looming roster crunch for the Jazz.
Under this suggested trade scenario, the Celtics would receive Sexton and Svi Mykhailiuk. In return, the Jazz would acquire Kristaps Porzingis. This deal seems straightforward for the Celtics. By offloading players like Sexton, they save $8.1 million, nudging them closer to dipping below the NBA’s second tax apron. For the Jazz, snagging Porzingis without needing to give up any assets is an enticing proposition.
Porzingis has often been mentioned as a potential target for the Jazz, making this scenario feel like familiar territory. The idea of bringing him to Utah isn’t new, but the advantages remain. If Porzingis finds his rhythm in Utah, great! If not, his expiring contract means there are no long-term repercussions for the Jazz. The primary focus here is easing a potential roster logjam next season.
Now, why is the Jazz roster a bit cramped? The team is looking at four draft picks in 2025, including two first-rounders. While they might opt to draft-and-stash those second-rounders, impressive prospects could make staying stateside more appealing—a nice problem to have but a problem nonetheless. A trade like the proposed one might help by freeing up spots for these rookies, even if it doesn’t completely solve the roster issue. The Jazz could consider waiving players like Mykhailiuk, KJ Martin, Johnny Juzang, and Jaden Springer instead, but where’s the excitement in that?
This offseason promises to be a whirlwind. With the NBA’s tax apron rules settling in, teams will be feeling the pressure, leading to a likely uptick in trades. Teams like Boston, with their hefty financial commitments, will be inclined to trade, and Utah, with several non-guaranteed contracts, stands to benefit by either acquiring assets or taking a gamble on potentially valuable players like Porzingis, even with his recent postseason struggles.
What’s particularly interesting is that Boston might find Jordan Clarkson a more appealing trade piece over Sexton. Despite Sexton being younger and arguably a better version of Clarkson’s skill set, Clarkson’s lower salary could be Boston’s main draw. This situation provides the Jazz with a great opportunity to address the roster crunch while making strategic moves.
Ultimately, it’s not about hitting a grand slam; it’s about making deliberate, beneficial adjustments. The Jazz’s willingness to consider such a deal signals their readiness to adapt and evolve strategically, proving they’re committed to making tangible changes.
