It’s a storyline to watch out for as the NBA Draft approaches. (By Mark Schindler) Coming off of one of the greatest regular seasons in both franchise and NBA history, culminating in a disappointing early exit in the playoffs. Veteran forward Rudy Gay has agreed to a two-year, 12.1 million contract with the Utah Jazz in free agency, agents Raymond Brothers and Sam Permut told Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium.
It’s hard to see a straight up deal with the Suns, but there could be several teams in play in which case the Pelicans might have interest in one of their veterans. I’m sure Dario Saric would be available for next to nothing, considering he is coming off a serious injury and makes $9.6 million next season. He’s a guy who could help give the Pelicans some toughness and defensive flexibility off the bench. 3 months agoUtah Jazz forward Rudy Gay (knee) has been ruled out for Wednesdays game against the Los Angeles Lakers. He’s making over $10 million next season, so acquiring him would likely require additional moves or a third team. Jae Crowder is another veteran on a one-year deal that the Suns could look to move. The 29-year-old averaged 15.6 points and 14.7 rebounds per game in 66 starts last season. Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela (15) and Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) reach for a rebound during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Jan. There would almost certainly have to be a third team involved, one that had a draft pick they were willing to move, unless the Suns were willing to trade Johnson for second round picks. Gobert has three guaranteed years and a 46.7 million player option for 2025-26 remaining on his contract. The Pelicans would need more than just Cameron Johnson to trade away the 8th overall pick in the NBA Draft, and the Suns don’t have a draft pick to send back in the deal.
Related Story: Pelicans: Possible NBA Draft trade partners from each conference 19 hours ago &0183 &32 NBA reporter Marc Stein noted in his June 20 newsletter that the likelihood of a John Collins trade 'is as high as its ever been.