Jazz Shake-Up: Sexton Traded for Veteran Center
The Utah Jazz have made a significant move as the offseason kicks off, sending young point guard Collin Sexton to Charlotte. In return, the Jazz acquire veteran big man Jusuf Nurkic, signaling a strategic shift in the team’s direction.
The Trade Details
Sexton, who played three seasons with the Jazz, is now headed elsewhere. The trade also involved a 2030 second-round pick for the Jazz. Over the last two seasons, Sexton averaged over 18 points and shot around 40% from three-point range. This made him one of Utah’s top offensive players.
Utah is trading Collin Sexton to the Charlotte Hornets for Jusuf Nurkic, sources tell ESPN. The Jazz will also send a second-round pick to the Hornets. pic.twitter.com/59l9R0m5eU
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 9, 2024
“But this move shows that the Jazz probably aren’t trying to win, either.”
—Unnamed Source
Nurkic, 30, and on an expiring contract, played last season for the Phoenix Suns and Hornets, averaging 8.9 points and 7.8 rebounds in 51 games. According to a recent report by the NBA, the average age of an NBA player is 26.2 years old (NBA.com 2024).
Impact on the Roster
The trade provides more opportunity for Utah’s young guards, including Keyonte George, Isaiah Collier, and rookie Walter Clayton Jr. The Jazz have seemingly chosen a younger trajectory by trading Sexton, who was often mentioned in trade rumors. Clayton expressed enthusiasm about the increased opportunity.
Austin Ainge, Utah’s president of basketball operations, has made it clear that the Jazz will not manipulate reports. The move to trade Sexton indicates that the team is not focused on immediate wins. Expect further moves involving veterans Jordan Clarkson and John Collins, whose value around the league is uncertain.
