The Utah Jazz have three picks in the 2024 NBA Draft — No. 10, No. 29, and No. 32 — but sources suggest they might not use all three on draft night, June 26 and 27.
Interestingly, when the lottery pushed the Jazz from the eighth to the tenth pick, many assumed they'd be disappointed. However, the team's vice president of player personnel, Bart Taylor, sees a potential advantage. "I think it legitimately could give us some more access to players," he told the Deseret News. The lower pick could help the Jazz secure workouts with players whose agents might not have considered them at No. 8.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Draft Strategy: The Jazz are open to trading at least two of their picks to bring in established players or future draft picks.
- Draft Class Insights: Although the 2024 draft is considered weaker at the top compared to 2023 and 2025, experts believe there are still solid players throughout the first round.
- Player Interviews: The Jazz have already conducted interviews at the NBA combine with potential picks, including high-prospects like Zach Edey (Purdue), Rob Dillingham (Kentucky), and top-three contender Alexandre Sarr (Perth Wildcats).
Going into the 2024-25 season with six rookies — three from last year and three incoming — isn't ideal for the Jazz. Instead, they might use their picks as trade assets. The potential trades could involve acquiring seasoned players or future picks, and the discussions are ongoing about the best direction.
The Jazz's proactive approach is highlighted by their extensive pre-draft activities. They've started workouts in Utah and held a full slate of interviews in Chicago, speaking to up to 20 players allowed per team at the combine. This comprehensive evaluation shows they are looking at talent across the entire draft board.
In a draft year where there's no clear top five, as noted by an Eastern Conference executive, the Jazz believe they can find valuable talent at the 10th spot. "There aren’t as many top-five outliers in this draft, but there are really solid players and probably a consensus top-20," the executive mentioned.
Overall, while the Jazz are prepared to use their three picks, they remain flexible. The right trade offer could see them shifting their strategy, making moves that could significantly impact their future.
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