The Utah Jazz are quietly positioning themselves as the NBA’s wildcard in trade negotiations—and it could shake up the league in ways you’re not expecting. While most teams are scrambling to make splashy moves for immediate impact, the Jazz seem to be playing a different game entirely. According to NBA insider Bobby Marks, Utah is a team to watch in potential three-team deals, particularly those involving salary absorption and strategic asset acquisition. But here’s where it gets controversial: the Jazz aren’t necessarily hunting for players who will elevate their current roster. Instead, they’re eyeing expiring contracts and draft picks—a move that prioritizes long-term flexibility over short-term gains. Is this a genius strategy or a missed opportunity to compete now? Let’s break it down.
Marks highlights the Jazz’s $18.4 million trade exception as the linchpin of their strategy. This exception, combined with the Hornets’ and Wizards’ $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exceptions, creates a fertile ground for creative three-team deals. For instance, Utah could absorb a player with an expiring contract in the $18.4 million range while securing draft picks or other assets in return. Players like Rui Hachimura ($18.25M, Lakers), Zach Collins ($18.08M, Bulls), or even PJ Washington ($14.15M, Mavericks) could fit this mold. And this is the part most people miss: the Jazz don’t need to initiate these deals—they’re perfectly content being the third wheel, as they were in the Luka Doncic trade, where they snagged an asset without being directly involved.
But here’s the bold question: Are the Jazz sacrificing their competitive edge by focusing on the future instead of the present? While stockpiling picks and shedding long-term commitments can set them up for sustained success, it also risks alienating fans and players who want to win now. Teams like the Lakers and Bulls might be eager to offload contracts, but does Utah risk becoming the league’s dumping ground instead of a contender? It’s a fine line to walk, and one that could spark heated debates among fans and analysts alike.
What’s clear is that the Jazz are playing the long game, and their willingness to absorb salary in three-team deals makes them a wildcard in this year’s trade market. Whether this strategy pays off remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: Utah is a team to watch—even if they’re not making headlines for all the right reasons. So, what do you think? Are the Jazz making a smart move, or are they missing out on a chance to compete? Let us know in the comments!
