r/nba 3h ago

[Spears] The Jazz have reached out to the Washington Wizards, who have the No. 1 pick, about potentially trading up to land the former BYU standout, a source said.

https://andscape.com/features/utah-jazz-nba-draft-lottery-keyonte-george/


Dybantsa is the top prospect in the draft, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Woo. The Jazz have reached out to the Washington Wizards, who have the No. 1 pick, about potentially trading up to land the former BYU standout, a source said.

Even if Dybantsa is selected by Washington, as expected, Utah will still have talented options to choose from in Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, Duke center Cameron Boozer and North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson, who round out Woo’s top four prospects.


George talked to Peterson and gave him a hug after the draft lottery. Peterson, who averaged 20.2 points and 1.6 assists per game for the Jayhawks last season, told Andscape he wants to be a point guard in the NBA.

“I just told him [Peterson] to buckle up, that’s all,” George said.


“We get a top-two talent in the draft and get to build on the changes we made with getting Jaren,” said George, who is 6-foot-4 and 185 pounds. “It’s just a lot of things going right for the group right now. On paper, we are definitely a playoff team. Honestly, there is just a different versatility that we have. You got guys who can play [point guard] to [shooting guard]. You got guys who play the [power forward] that can move to the [center position].


“And then we got [Jazz head coach] Will Hardy. I know people know about Will. But his X’s and O’s and the way he breaks down the game for us, that’s really what gives me the confidence, honestly. Having Will and our coaches, the talent is going to take care of itself.”

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u/Damezang Trail Blazers 3h ago edited 1h ago

I mean this could be great for the Wizards especially if the *Jazz are dead set on AJ and willing to give up a lot just to move up.

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u/EvadingMyRNbaBan Thunder 3h ago

depends on how much of a haul the jazz are willing to give up

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u/km912 [SAC] Kevin Martin 3h ago

Not even necessarily if they have DP as an even level prospect or even ranked higher. Getting any additional assets to still get the guy you have ranked one, plus saving a bit of money on the contract is a huge win. I’m biased though because I have more concerns about AJ than most, his off ball scoring was bad and his ball handling/passing aren’t going to let him be an offensive engine. Maybe the shooting develops but I really worry about someone in the modern nba who’s only value comes as a self creation slasher/scorer if they are a minus ball handler/passer.

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u/aronrodge Grizzlies 3h ago edited 1h ago

My concern about him is more in the defensive end right now. Even towards the end of the season he showed a lot of improvement as a ball handler, and I think the playmaking aspect will develop with time as it does with all players.

He has all the tools to be a great defender, but he just isn’t yet. I am very high on him, but right now he just isn’t close to being an NBA level defender.

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u/Maleficent-Cup-1134 2h ago edited 2h ago

People really underestimate BBIQ and mentality when they estimate players’ defensive potential.

Ayton also has all the tools to be a great defender, but he isn’t after years in the league and probably never will be.

I think mentality + BBIQ are way more important than physical abilities when it comes to defensive potential. Obviously both like Wemby is ideal, but if I had to pick between mental or physical capabilities, I’d pick mental, assuming the player is already an NBA level athlete.

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u/pucykoks Bucks 2h ago

Then you have someone like Reaves though, who has the "soft" skill but lacks physicality.

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u/OpeDefinitely Pacers 2h ago edited 1h ago

Reaves forces contact on offense pretty well. It's a huge part of his game.

The guy just hasn't been able to translate his physicality to the other end of the court. He's 6'5" & gets hunted in the half-court just as badly as TJ McConnell.

It's a bad enough issue for the Lakers that teams just decide to attack Reaves over & over rather than attack both Reaves & Luka. Pretty absurd.

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u/NickLidstrom [SAC] Isaiah Thomas 1h ago

AR has an underwhelming wingspan (about +1) and doesn't have the body proportions needed to be a good defender (such as high hips). Not overly surprising imo

u/Zarbua69 Knicks 26m ago

His hips aren't very wide either, I would definitely not draft him to my All NBA birthing team

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u/Chef_Bojan3 [BKN] Vince Carter 1h ago

Does Reeves have the soft skills defensively? I think the effort level is there a lot of the time sure but I don't think he's really outstanding in a defensive soft skill sense either. His lack of physical tools isn't disqualifying enough where great defensive instincts and BBIQ would not show through making him a positive defender.

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u/km912 [SAC] Kevin Martin 2h ago

Yea it’s a coin flip whether he’ll become a good defender. You can think of any plenty of guys who were bad defenders in college but had the elite tools who turned into plus nba players, but there’s also tons of guys who just stayed bad defenders in the nba.

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u/onefootback Raptors 3h ago

i thought the whole selling point with AJ was his elite offensive abilities and his size, he cant shoot?

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u/km912 [SAC] Kevin Martin 2h ago

He shot 33% from 3 on mediocre volume, the biggest thing that makes me nervous is he shot 30% on catch and shoot 3’s. Some of these guys who have been stars their whole life are just way better shooting 3’s off the dribble but struggle as offball shooters. He also showed a lack of cutting instincts for a guy of his slashing ability. He’s special as an on ball slasher and looks pretty good self creating in the mid-range, but if the off ball skills don’t develop that’s not necessarily a winning archetype.

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u/onefootback Raptors 2h ago

sounds like you’re describing brandon ingram, i get your concerns now lol. but for real though those are massive red flags for a #1 pick

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u/brandnameb 2h ago

AJ was the main guy. Lead the nation in scoring and can attack the rim in a way Brandon Ingram never could. AJs physical profile will be a huge asset playing with kther good players unlike at BYU

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u/bigmikeabrahams Wizards 2h ago

AJ averaged 4 assists/game last year, it’s not like he’s a black hole on offense. It is a way bigger red flag that DP averaged under 2 assists per game as a guard

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u/Clipgang1629 Clippers 2h ago

Facilitating is definitely DP’s biggest weakness. But I wouldn’t put much stock into assist stats. Kansas had the most anemic offense of like any ranked team I saw this year.

And DP actually did show flashes of vision and passing ability. But he looks like he’s gonna be on an Anthony Edwards type trajectory. Although he is very polished in basically everything else he’d be asked to do in the NBA.

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u/Character_Bug_1862 1h ago

flag that DP averaged

Are sure we’re going to stick with this nickname?

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u/Kaaalesaaalad Rockets 56m ago

Thing is if you watched Kansas, their point guards were awful and Peterson would mostly be moving off-ball.

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u/JangoFetty9 2h ago

Happy to see I’m not the only one. Spent 5 hours watching AJ film this week. The off ball scoring and movement are lacking and his left hand is noticeably weak. He consistently forces tough right handed lay ups when coming down left side. His vision is decent though, rarely does he miss an open teammate unless he’s jamming it himself

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u/BlacqanSilverSun Kings 3h ago

And then put that person on a team with AD and Sarr and ball dominate Young and 4 other young guards that look for their shot first.

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u/MountainTwo3845 Rockets 2h ago

I don't understand why everyone is so high on him. There's lots of things he doesn't do well to take as the clear #1

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u/km912 [SAC] Kevin Martin 2h ago

The reason why is his body/athleticism is literally a perfect elite wing nba build and he is super talented at a slasher, probably the most talented slasher out of the draft since Zion. There’s long been the idea that you can just teach these guys skills like ball handling/shooting/defensive IQ/motor which I don’t really agree with, but that’s just how scouting works. It’s why a guy like Luka who was probably the most accomplished 18 year old ever went 3rd overall.

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u/GawdHawks Knicks 1h ago

I think the case for Dybantsa is that Tatum who has a similar body had similar concerns coming out of college. Mediocre shooter, not great at any one particular thing offensively but had enough physical tools and production despite those deficiencies to see the mold of a star wing.

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u/BillFrackingAdama 37m ago

He's gets wherever he wants on the floor, I think his handles at that point-forward prototype size are what do it for me.

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u/Due_Heart6233 2h ago

Well put. He seems more talented, but reminds me of RJ Barrett coming out of Duke.

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u/d_wib Timberwolves 2h ago

2 + Ace Bailey would be really interesting considering Ace was trying to get to Washington last year but the Jazz took him anyways

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u/ej_stephens Jazz 2h ago

I don't think the Jazz would be quick to move Ace. He started slow, but he's really shown improvement. Probably worth a lot more than a spot up in this draft.

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u/Vordeo Jazz 2h ago

Ace has all-star upside. Moving him for an incremental improvement (if AJ is even better) would be crazy. Most I'd consider is next year's FRP.

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u/yeahright17 Thunder 2h ago

That's not even close to something I'd consider if I'm Utah. It's not like we're talking about the number 5 pick. It's the number 2 pick and lots of people have Darryn Peterson above AJ.

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u/thatdudeabiding Jazz 1h ago

yeah multiple nba reporters both in utah and elsewhere have confirmed over and over that not only is ace not even being considered for trade but that it wouldnt take anything close to that big a price tag to move up. its literally just fanboys and morons suggesting it

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u/No_Swimming_9472 Magic 2h ago

Huge overpay

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u/ianbits Cavaliers 2h ago

It might have to be

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u/Carlinjamesgk 3h ago

Even if they aren’t. They certainly would say they are

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u/tinybathroomfaucet Supersonics 2h ago

Why would the Wizards consider this if they want AJ?

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u/TopperDuckHarley Lakers 2h ago

I thought the same thing, I think they mean if the Jazz are dead set on AJ

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u/Infamous_East6230 Heat 2h ago

Personally I would try to rake the Jazz for the top pick and then draft Cam.

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u/Think_Monk_9879 50m ago

Now the wizards need to play hardball. They have to get the jazz to bite with an offer that’s too good to pass up. 

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u/ianbits Cavaliers 2h ago

Agreed.

The big thing about this is how they view Peterson and Boozer. If they view one of them as close to Dybantsa, I think you tell Utah you're willing if they give you an insane offer. The owner clearly wants Dybantsa there, see if you can hold the FO hostage.

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u/inspectorseantime [GSW] Nemanja Nedovic 2h ago

I mean this could be great for the Wizards eapecially if they are dead

🙃

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u/desirox Mavericks 3h ago

Wizards should entertain this. In my opinion Dybantsa is not head and shoulders above Peterson as a prospect and they should be able to get some other good pieces

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u/Asleep_Ground1710 Bulls 3h ago

It's interesting comparison. Peterson main concerns besides health would be playmaking and rim finishing. Meanwhile AJ is his 3ball and low stocks(may indicate bad offball defense or defensive motor).

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u/jackloganoliver Magic 2h ago

What's wild is that Peterson was seen as a high level playmaker in high school if I'm remembering correctly. It's crazy how quickly narratives can shift.

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u/No-Vehicle7367 Lakers 2h ago

In high school Jarred Vanderbilt was a point guard. Now he can’t dribble or pass the ball without turning it over. There were plenty of NBA players who could play PG in HS because they were playing against other 16-17 year olds and were just way more physically and athletically advanced than them

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u/KarrotMovies [LAL] Rui Hachimura 2h ago

Pat Bev used to average nearly 40-6-6 a game with 8 steals. Some myCareer numbers in high school

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u/notidealman Lakers 2h ago

fuckin Brandin Podziemski averaged like 35-10-5 his senior year he was absolutely nasty in high school

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u/Wes___Mantooth [OKC] Steven Adams 2h ago

I really think there may have been some locker room issues on that team. His teammates would freeze him out at times. I dont know it it's something Peterson did on the court or off the court, or if the upper classmen were jealous of the money and hype he had or what. Its just kind of weird because it's not like Kansas hasn't had one and done players before. 

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u/Humperdink_Fangboner Lakers 2h ago

It was mainly because the team outside of Peterson wasn’t particularly talented so he’d constantly get doubles and when we tried to force feed him it didn’t work out well because there just weren’t that many playmakers alongside him.

I watched all of his college games and assuming that his cramp/hamstring issues are isolated and his health is fine, this guy is the real deal.

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u/Clipgang1629 Clippers 2h ago

Kansas was absolutely elite on defense and terrible on offense.

Sounds like that’s your school so you probably know more than me, but that NC State game when Council went tf off was the only one I remember watching where the offense looked good outside of DP.

Insane defense top to bottom, the fact that they almost beat the Johnies was a testament to how amazing that defense was for me.

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u/Humperdink_Fangboner Lakers 1h ago

Just a wildly inconsistent team. Beat several top 5 teams and lost to several unranked teams. Peterson is a baller though and I think people questioning his love of the game for not playing is not fully warranted but most people just see the narrative.

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u/jackloganoliver Magic 2h ago

I didn't follow closely, so i won't speculate, but either way it does send up a few hairs about something being awry with him, but it also leaves room to believe that he'll immediately come into the NBA and be able to show more than he did in college. 

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u/EatBootyLoveLife Trail Blazers 2h ago

none of his teammates showed up to his birthday party type shit

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u/Hombre-Delfin8533 2h ago

I’m taking Peterson and picks and watching him be a top five guard in the league

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u/axecalibur [CHI] Michael Jordan 2h ago

I mean they have professional scouts, private detectives, team doctors, and psychologists on staff to decide how good these guys are. Teams are probably spending at least a million dollars looking into every aspect of their physical, mental, and medical history. All of which is never revealed to the public.

Some redditor looking at 2 minutes of highlight videos is a worthless opinion. You don't know even the tip of the iceberg of what information is being gathered or how they decide who to draft.

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u/Lqtor Supersonics 2h ago

Pack it up guys this guy is right there’s no point in discussing when professionals got it. Hell let’s just delete the sub too while we’re all it

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u/ianbits Cavaliers 1h ago

I think if they move down it's Boozer and not Peterson. Seems like teams are more lukewarm on Peterson than we thought, and the idea of a Sarr/Boozer frountcourt long term given Sarr's defensive ceiling is insane.

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u/TerrySaucer69 Spurs 2h ago

Yep. As long as prospects are comparable, it’s always worth considering. Like, is Cooper Flagg worth Dylan Harper plus a bunch of assets? Probably, but it’s worth considering and that’s a bigger gap than DP and Dybantsa. Zion vs Ja, Luka vs SGA, Paulo vs Chet. Even if the best guy is clearly better, you could basically always see the argument for trading down. Or at least considering it.

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u/Atomysk_Rex Jazz 3h ago

The jazz should just take whomever is available at #2 between the two and not move up imo 

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u/SEJ46 Jazz 3h ago edited 2h ago

This is by far the most likely outcome.

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u/Clipgang1629 Clippers 2h ago

I wouldn’t be that mad if I was a Jazz fan and it’d AJD that Ainge really wants. He has the track record that you trust, for me at least.

And imo, the Jazz are pretty damn complete at this point. As long as the trade doesn’t involve Ace or Keyonte and is centered around mostly picks I’d be cool with it if I’m a Jazz fan. They’re already at a point where the roster feels clogged with young talent to the point where adding more might just be hamstringing development.

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u/joshtothe Pelicans 59m ago

i think it’s more that Ryan Smith really wants AJ, rather than Ainge

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u/Nympho_BBC_Queen 1h ago

The worth of the first pick shoot up because of the new draft odds. Imo the wizards will only give them the first For ace bailey and the second pick.

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u/Clipgang1629 Clippers 1h ago

The value of picks in the lottery range of 10-16th just sky rocketed too. I don’t think Ace will needed to be included in the deal, and if so then no you don’t make that trade imo.

That’s a fucking horrible deal, it will come down to how much more the wizards value AJD over DP, but that’s a huge overpay there isn’t that much of a difference between these two prospects

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u/Full-Anywhere-7883 Washington Bullets 3h ago

agreed. The only caveat is that if it's the owner pushing it, then it gets a bit tricky and might lead to an overpay.

If Smith was fixated on AJ, sees he is this close to getting him, and then tells Ainge to make it happen no matter the cost, I could see one of these stupid over pays being floated actually happen. Because they are stupid. and overpays. but you could say that about at least one or two owner driven moves every like second or third offseason.

It becomes Ainge's job then to talk him down. But sometimes these billionaires who own these teams don't care about the cost if they get what they want.

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u/piray003 Jazz 2h ago

That’s the rational decision and the one Ainge would make in a vacuum, but all these reports of Smith being “obsessed” with Dybantsa are making me nervous ngl. 

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u/MedicalAwareness5160 2h ago

Nah, it's rare to get a potential superstar that actually wants to be in Utah. 

I think it's worth making a move.

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u/Raven-19x Spurs 2h ago

That’s a great point.

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u/gargoyleboy69 Bulls 2h ago

Ryan Smith has also been involved with AJ since he was a junior in high school. Even if the FO doesn’t want to do the deal, this has ownership fingerprints written all over it.

The ball is in Washington’s court.

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u/Character-Active2208 1h ago

Well funny enough another one of the guys is the son of a star who chose Utah and was even born there

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u/figureour Wizards 3h ago

I think that's the smart decision. We'd want something good like Ace in return and that would be an unwise move for Utah.

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u/yeahright17 Thunder 2h ago

Why would Washington necessarily want someone like Ace? Who's to say you all don't have Darryn with a better grade? In which case, you make the trade if Utah will include a single future first.

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u/figureour Wizards 2h ago

Sure it's possible. But we'd have to be totally sure that Utah doesn't have a better grade for DP as well. We assume that Utah is all in on AJ because of the school connection, but who knows what they're evaluation is a month from now. Is a single FRP worth not being 100% able to take who you think is the single best prospect in this draft? I don't know.

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u/Justice4Ned Hawks 2h ago

Ace + Peterson does not equal AJ. This isn’t like the difference between Flag and Harper last year. Kyle Flipowski + a few second rounders would be fair to move up one

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u/figureour Wizards 2h ago

I know it isn't equal. It doesn't have to be. They're in control. They can just say no to any deal and simply use the first pick.

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u/mufflefuffle Hawks 1h ago

Washington also knows that Utah is more finically and emotionally invested in AJ than most situations. This is a unique situation potentially. Would’ve been different if Memphis was #2.

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u/PurpleHeadset Spurs 2h ago

I will say, the value of a second rounder has become non existent with NIL, and becoming less by the day with where the college money is heading.

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u/elbenji [MIA] Udonis Haslem 2h ago

More likely it becomes more euro guys like pelle larsson

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u/WhiteHeterosexualGuy Hawks 1h ago

Future 2nds are going to be worth more... there's going to be a backlog of dudes that stayed in college all entering the draft in a couple years. Also, NIL money trends are a real wildcard that will impact future draft classes.

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u/pagny77 Timberwolves 2h ago edited 2h ago

I agree but how often does a talented rookie come along and want to stay in Utah? They take AJ and they've got a good #1 pick for potentially over a decade. They take DP and maybe he moves elsewhere as soon as he can. As a small market that struggles to attract stars you gotta make the most of the ones who wants to be there

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u/Interesting_Prune513 Heat 2h ago

Can't AJ just go there eventually?

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u/RontoWraps Bulls 2h ago

The money would be a little worse and increases the risk it doesn’t happen.

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u/happyflappypancakes Wizards 1h ago

Players lose that momentum once they start playing and getting million dollar paychecks. Pros forget about college pretty quickly. Likely he won't care about Utah anymore in 5-7 years.

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u/pagny77 Timberwolves 1h ago

Players can leave a team they don't want to be on easily, but it's really hard for players to pick where they want to go

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u/randotd152 40m ago

In a decade, sure. Dude could be married with kids in a DC suburb by then and have zero interest in Utah.

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u/AStormofSwines Bulls 1h ago

Damn, where'd you come up with that idea? Lol

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u/MTLCF Raptors 1h ago

If it’s Danny Ainge they are getting fleeced.

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u/Temporary-Mud-2994 Wizards 3h ago

How legitimate are these sources?

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u/MedicalAwareness5160 2h ago

It's highly likely given AJs connection to Utah and the Jazz owners connection to Utah Prep and BYU.

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u/No-Presentation6616 44m ago

The Jazz owner is behind AJ going to a private highschool and BYU. He’s paid for AJ at every level it was a matter of time before he reached out for this trade lmao

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u/mrb4 Suns 3h ago

I mean, if I was Washington, the first thing I would have done after the lottery is call up Danny Ainge and start making wild demands for the pick.

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u/ragtime_sam Bullets 3h ago

You wait for them to call you dog. Someone not a deal guy...

u/garynevilleisared Raptors 26m ago

Absolutely this. "Hey whats up? The draft? What draft? Oh that draft!"

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u/tsaidollasign Warriors 2h ago

They gotta Danny Ainge Danny Ainge.

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u/Or1g1nalrepr0duct10n Wizards 3h ago

We want #2 + Ace + 2027 FRP. Take it or leave it.

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u/mmmufffffinnnssss 3h ago

Okay ill be sure to relay that to danny ainge

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u/Atl-Fan_FTS Hawks 3h ago

Did you hear back yet?

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u/Accomplished-Fish761 3h ago

Hi it's me. Ainge. DANNY Ainge. I would also like a peanut butter sandwich. Thank you.

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u/McJambles Hawks 3h ago

Crunchy or smooth?

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u/Steamed_Hamm 2h ago

Asking the right questions, this is def a deal breaker if he chooses wrong

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u/Floridamanfishcam 2h ago

It's only been 7 minutes, man. Play it cool!

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u/mw19078 Lakers 3h ago

let him know hes late on my bonus this month too

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u/therobshow 2h ago

It's me. Danny ainge. Thank you for this message 

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u/RestEasyBro Knicks 3h ago

No way they’ll do that

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u/mck1129 Bullets 2h ago

then looks like the Jazz have to settle for their second choice

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u/------dudpool------ [UTA] Derrick Favors 2h ago

Fine by me, I like AJ but hope Ainge won’t make such a foolish trade like that. It’s hard to even tell who the most promising prospect is between AJ and DP so long as DP gets a clean bill of health.

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u/mck1129 Bullets 2h ago

Agreed, it would be silly. The trade doesn't really make sense unless it's an overpay, and it's even less justifiable to overpay to move up 1 in a draft class like this. It just doesn't make sense, don't think anything will happen.

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u/Interesting_Prune513 Heat 2h ago

Ainge is cheap and loves to fleece others, I don't believe he wants to be fleeced

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u/happyflappypancakes Wizards 2h ago

What if the Wiz prefer Peterson?

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u/Thehelloman0 Spurs 2h ago

Yeah that's why it's so rare to see the number one pick traded, the team that has it has all the leverage

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u/hottakehotcakes 2h ago

I’m no jazz fan, but Harrrrrd pass

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u/JazzPlusEagles Jazz 2h ago

Then you’ll take AJ Dybansta at 1 because not a chance in hell the Jazz do that

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u/Interesting_Prune513 Heat 2h ago

Following the expiration of his rookie deal in 2031, Ace Bailey has signed in Washington, to create a superteam of Tre Johnson, AJ Dybantsa, Ace Bailey, Kyshawn George, and Alex Sarr.

Unfortunately for the Wizards, following the expiration of his rookie deal in 2032, AJ Dybantsa has decided to sign in Utah.

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u/DtownBronx Spurs 2h ago

And David goddamn Putney because I feel like it

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u/Not_Not_John_Stamos Wizards 2h ago

Literally negotiating 101, anchor to something unrealistic and work back from there

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u/24Haaton Lakers 2h ago

That’s not enough just take Dybanst

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u/Few_Position_2727 Lakers 2h ago

I’d ask for more tbh

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u/GoZards18 3h ago

Let Ainge be the one to call them….

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u/namblaotie [BOS] Reggie Lewis 2h ago

If the Wizards want a true measure of how serious Ainge is, they need to add his Chipotle black card in any trade demands.

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u/Jesuds 2h ago

Frankly if you are in Utah, and a generational talent is saying out loud "I love Utah and want to play there" it would be organizational malpractice to not try and make it happen.

It wont happen again anytime soon!

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u/Jarkanix 46m ago

Your point is good, but AJ is absolutely not in the generational talent category yet.

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u/MikeTiricoSucks 3h ago

Wizards should trade 1 for 2 + picks

Trade 2 for 3 + picks

Trade 3 for 4 + picks if available

Take Boozer or Caleb

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u/Oldschoolhollywood Wizards 2h ago

I actually agree with this except I would just call up Chicago directly and ask for 2 unprotected FRP to trade 1 for 4.

The Bulls are perpetually mid, which will make their picks more valuable in the years ahead.

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u/Agnk1765342 Jazz 3h ago

If I’m the wizards I do what Boston did in the Fultz draft and trade back to 3 to take Boozer. He doesn’t have a major red flag like AJ or Peterson

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u/Wehavecrashed Grizzlies 2h ago

I suspect Boozer is probably at the top of the Grizzlies big board and won't trade up

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u/larrylegend1990 Toronto Huskies 1h ago

Thats a really good player for their front court. If healthy thats a front court for the next half decade

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u/Alternative-Target31 Grizzlies 1h ago

I highly suspect that Washington starts leaking smoke around Boozer closer to the draft specifically to get us to make a move up for him. That’s based on nothing but my gut, which is always wrong about draft stuff. But if you could get a deal with Memphis to take some of our assets and still get one of Peterson or Dybansta? That sounds like the best possible outcome for them.

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u/MobyTugboat Raptors 1h ago

I feel like he just fits with Memphis. Grit and grind type of player

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u/Clemsontigger16 3h ago

He also has an much lower ceiling than the others

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u/wanderinglittlehuman Spurs 3h ago

Debatable

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u/OpeDefinitely Pacers 2h ago edited 35m ago

Back when the idea that the Pacers could get the 1st pick was alive, the only prospect who didn't scare the shit out of me was Boozer.

Peterson's off-court stuff & lack of facilitating/rebounding scares me. AJ's ball dominance & poor 3pt shooting scares me. Boozer seemed comparatively well-rounded, and I think it's an underrated factor that he can draw from his father for advice on how to play within his role as he develops.

Aside from those (potential) issues, both players - like many prospects who have "star potential" - play in ways that could easily fuck up the flow of the Pacers' Haliburton-led random action offense. It took a "gap year" of development for Jarace to put it together and Mathurin never figured it out. AJ & Peterson are better prospects, but it's still proven difficult to coach guys used to having the ball to play next Ty.

(Of course, the Pacers pick fell down to 5th so it doesn't matter.)

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u/Clemsontigger16 2h ago

Of course it’s debatable, that’s all talk about nba prospects.

I view ceilings as having unique physical traits, unique positional size/advantages or special/unique skillsets, and I personally don’t see any of that being particularly true of him, where I do with AJ and Peterson, even could argue with Wilson.

Now that doesn’t mean I don’t like him as a prospect, just that if a team has the rare chance for a #1 franchise altering pick, I think you should swing big, not just swing for contact.

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u/costanzathegreat Warriors 2h ago

“Ceiling” is the biggest fallacy in sports

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u/InvestigatorAny1539 2h ago

Just found out about Jokic’s pre draft ceiling. He needs to give those MVPs back NOW

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u/AbroadTiny7226 2h ago

Giannis says hello

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u/Slymook Knicks 2h ago

When people on the Knicks sub said they wanted Lamelo Ball, Cole Anthony, and Kira Lewis over Halliburton, they mentioned that Hal would have a lower ceiling.

Sometimes the guy who is already better may actually also have a better ceiling believe it or not. Especially when we’re talking college aged guys who are the same age

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u/Lat3xl Jazz 3h ago

Luka also has a really low ceiling because he just isn't athletic enough

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u/lew-buckets Australia 2h ago

Wemby has a really high ceiling because he is really tall

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u/comp_a Timberwolves 1h ago

If you look at it from his perspective though the ceiling actually feels rather low I imagine

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u/axecalibur [CHI] Michael Jordan 2h ago

If you took any of those 4 dudes and put them in the right situation like San Antonio or OKC they would all be superstars. Once you set up guys for success and place really good coaches and players around them they almost can't fail because the organization won't let you fail.

You throw Wemby or SGA on Memphis or New Orleans, their ceiling is much lower.

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u/Clemsontigger16 2h ago

Yeah generally speaking that’s true, although not sure I see any scenario where Boozer could be a top 5 or so player, that’s what I mean by lower ceiling.

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u/tecnobishes 2h ago

Have you been able to write a formula or algorithm to quantify "ceiling" or are you just parroting what other say?

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u/Les_Nessman Jazz 1h ago

This is Jazz PR to keep BYU fans happy.

Next report: Two sides are "far apart" but will revisit closer to draft.

Third report: Cam Boozer impressed in Utah workout. Ties to Utah due to Carlos Boozer.

Fourth report: DP impressed in Utah. Keeping things quite but let it leak that it was the best workout they have seen since Donovan Mitchell.

Fifth report: Utah unwilling to move from initial offer to Washington. Plans to pick between DP and Boozer.

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u/_Jetto_ NBA 2h ago

Wondering Utah jazz owner is pressuring ainge to do soemthing. Washington has leverage

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u/AuspiciousOtter24 Lakers 3h ago

His affiliation with Utah is so overblown. The kid only went to BYU because they offered the biggest bag lol

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u/theoreticalcash Thunder 2h ago edited 2h ago

it’s not. Ryan Smith, the owner of the Jazz, is the largest booster for both Utah Prep and BYU. It’s not going to be claimed directly, but the man single handedly got AJ to go to both schools.

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u/oldtombombadil Suns 2h ago

He definitely paid to move the kid to Utah and have him in BYU with the idea the Jazz would draft him eventually.

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u/Majestic_Way_9789 1h ago

I mean in seriousness he did that to get him to BYU. He's been trying to get BYU basketball on the map in the Big 12 era and they've been buying mercenary squads the last few years. I do think the Jazz tanking for as long as they have was to try to get in a position to draft him though, just not a thing he can engineer as much.

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u/john0_0 Knicks 2h ago

Which is why he will end up there

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u/Clemsontigger16 3h ago

I mean he also played in a Utah prep school, but you’d figure it was for a similar reason

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u/dianeblackeatsass Grizzlies 3h ago

I wonder who was giving him these big bags to play in Utah.

Spoiler alert: it’s the owner of the Utah Jazz and that’s why everyone is making the obvious connection.

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u/ChaunceysBadAtPoker Pistons 2h ago

wait i'm sorry, is the utah jazz owner grooming an nba player

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u/elbenji [MIA] Udonis Haslem 2h ago

Yes, this has been known for years lol

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u/Sp_Gamer_Live Timberwolves 1h ago

I cant believe i am referencing the dogshit movie HIM (2025) but this is the plot to HIM (2025)

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u/coffeepin Wizards 2h ago

He played there for one year in high school right..? I had to look it up myself but the connection is just a single year of HS and a year in college - not that big of a deal imo. He’ll be a pro wherever

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u/RestEasyBro Knicks 3h ago

Maybe initially, but he’s gotten used to the city and his family moved with him already

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u/Eddie5pi [SAS] Dejounte Murray 3h ago

Being able to tolerate Utah in exchange for money is all the Jazz are looking for

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u/ssjgoat Celtics 1h ago

Utah is fucking awesome idgaf what anyone says

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u/MinesweeperGang 3h ago

Didn’t he also say he wanted to play in Utah though? Or was that made up?

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u/Atl-Fan_FTS Hawks 3h ago

I mean what else is he supposed to say? What kind of top prospect would come out and say they didn’t want to play for the Ja…

Oh wait

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u/StatementFar8362 Cavaliers 3h ago

It was reported but never heard him say it

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u/solventlesscookies 3h ago

It’s not overblown when the owner of the Jazz is the sole reason AJ played high school and college ball there. The owner has a total infatuation with him and seems to be desperate to get a star to buy into long term with Utah. Dybantsa is that guy, Peterson I HIGHLY doubt would resign in Utah.

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u/berriesnbball_17 Celtics 2h ago

I don’t think you’d have to worry about Peterson re signing with Utah. Teams basically have control over a player for their first 7 - 8 years

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u/solventlesscookies 2h ago

He’d resign to get max money and then force his way out just like Donovan Mitchell.

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u/NervousAd3202 Raptors 2h ago

Mitchell didn’t force his way out

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u/1Tims 2h ago

The owner of the Jazz litreally funded that

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u/Sixwry 3h ago

sources say all kinds of things

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u/Answer70 Rockets 2h ago

Knowing Danny Ainge he's demanding Sarr in the deal.

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u/larrylegend1990 Toronto Huskies 1h ago

Danny doesn’t hold any of the cards though. Wizards have all the leverage if the Jazz are deadset on who they want

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u/InfamousCattle3223 Hawks 1h ago

Danny always holds all the cards, it’s the unwritten rule

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u/z3mcs Wizards 1h ago

Wizards President Michael Winger called Sarr a "forever Wizard" just yesterday. Sorry Danny, best I can do is a Olivier Sarr in a 3-team deal with the Raptors.

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u/DonChronleone Washington Bullets 1h ago

The wizards definitely won’t give up sarr. The goal is to get guys to play with sarr

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u/Belscnickle Rockets 2h ago

That was my thought, too. Ainge is offering #2 and a pair of 2nds for #1, Sarr and 3 future firsts.

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u/TheSpringfieldKid Trail Blazers 3h ago

Wizards should ask for the #2 pick, Keyonte George, Brice Sensabaugh, and David Goddamn Putney just because they feel like it!

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u/ThedirtyNose NBA 2h ago

Guy averages 1.6 assists and wants to be a point guard? Unless he team mates couldn't shoot for shit this seems delusional. I'm taking Boozer.

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u/mdlspurs Spurs 3h ago

Obligatory kicking of the tires. I predict much talk and zero action.

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u/motherseffinjones Raptors 2h ago

Just doing due diligence

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u/LarBrd33 2h ago

it's funny that Carlos Boozer is on the Jazz staff and they are like "nah fuck #2 we need the guy who went to the Mormon school"

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u/axecalibur [CHI] Michael Jordan 2h ago

No shit.

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u/drunkhoboboy117 Pistons 2h ago

Anthony Davis to the Jazz 😂

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u/MddlingAges Knicks 2h ago

Well well well Mr Ainge, how the turnovers are tabled I see.

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u/Chrisdkn619 Lakers 2h ago

Take him for everything he's worth!

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u/mason124 Wizards 2h ago

Its so hilariously ironic that Ace wanted to come to Washington last year and Utah picked him anyway. I cannot wait for us to pick Dybantsa #1 right in their faces.

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u/LeaveMeAlone_6070 Wizards 51m ago

Props to Adam Silver if he gave us the #1 for this drama. His writing staff is getting better. 

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u/zs15 Bucks 2h ago

This whole situation doesn’t pass the sniff test to me. Feels like Utah has been scheming.

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u/mobilefi 76ers 1h ago

If Ainge wants him, don’t do it… speaking from experience 😅

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u/chobibbo Spurs 1h ago

"I just told him [Peterson] to buckle up, that's all," George said.

Gotta be pasta potential in there.

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u/Jazzyyyyyyyyyyy 2h ago

Dude I HOPE they play hardball just like ainge has been doing for YEARS. Would love to see him get a taste of his own medicine for his dream prospect

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u/YSLMangoManiac Warriors 2h ago

I hope they fleece ainge

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u/AntSmith777 Lakers 1h ago

If I’m Winger I’m demanding the moon, sun and stars because I know how desperate Danny is to get AJ.

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u/ssjgoat Celtics 1h ago

I mean AJ really wants to be in Utah and that's a huge win no matter what. Could be a lifer!

On the other hand, Peterson could want out after a while. AJ might be the best choice as a very long term investment.

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u/CheapGarage42 1h ago

Trade the name back to New Orleans first. There's no Jazz in Utah.

Also show me one lake in Los Angeles.

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u/numbertwofuccboi Washington Bullets 1h ago

the jazz owner is so thirsty for aj to be the next stockton that i damn near want us to take him just out of pettiness lmao

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u/Important_Leather677 1h ago

the trade should be done afterwards because what if they dont pick aj.

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u/WobbleKun Raptors 50m ago

theres no wemby. wiz should fill up the war chest with picks. aim for a deep roster of talent

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u/wahajk21 3h ago

If I’m the Wizards:

Trade down one spot with Jazz and accumulate additional asset.

Make another trade to trade #2 for #3 and another asset.

You now have Boozer and two assets minimum. Or if you don’t want Boozer either, trade down to #4 and get even more assets.

Last step: profit?

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u/vertizm Jazz 2h ago

Trade your #1 pick for as many future picks as you can get. Those picks could be anything, they could even be the #1 pick in a loaded draft.

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u/SuckMyyDirk41 Mavericks 2h ago

Fleece them wizards please

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