Donovan Mitchell is likely the next NBA star that will be traded
The Utah Jazz made a move on Wednesday night, acquiring Talen Horton-Tucker and Stanley Johnson from the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Patrick Beverley. There’s a good chance they aren’t done dealing, though, and Donovan Mitchell could be the next one on the move.
The Athletic’s Tony Jones reported recently (subscription required) that Mitchell has yet to actually ask the Jazz for a trade, and recent reports have indicated Mitchell is content with staying or going. That feeling is mutual, as The Athletic reported the Jazz are comfortable entering the season with Mitchell still on the roster.
As of Thursday morning, the Jazz have fielded multiple offers, none of which sound to be imminent.
Donovan Mitchell has three preferred trade destinations if he is to be moved
Donovan Mitchell, though he wouldn’t mind staying with the Jazz, revealed the three teams he’d like to be traded to. According to Tony Jones, his preferred destinations are the New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets, and Miami Heat.
The two New York teams make a lot of sense, as Mitchell grew up in the New York area. Miami is always a player for stars due to favorable weather and a highly reputable winning culture.
Of the three teams, the Knicks are the only ones who have the pieces to get a deal done that Utah wants, according to Jones. Both of the other two teams would need to get creative to get a deal done. Brooklyn would need to get especially creative since CBA rules prevent them from rostering both Ben Simmons and Mitchell concurrently since both signed designated rookie max extensions.
Still, the Knicks and Jazz are not close on a deal. One might assume that a player like RJ Barrett is a sticking point in the deal, with the Jazz recently rejecting an offer centered on Obi Toppin, Evan Fournier, and draft picks.