Shock Trade Sends Jaren Jackson Jr To Utah Jazz

Merlin sees Utah swung a blockbuster for Jaren Jackson Jr., sending multiple picks and pieces to Memphis while getting JJJ, John Konchar, Jock Landale and Vince Williams Jr. The trade flips the Jazz from rebuild posture toward win-now mode, adding a true rim protector next to Walker Kessler and Lauri Markkanen and altering payroll and draft currency in a single move. Merlin notes Memphis walks away with salary relief and draft stock, though the return feels like "selling low" on a franchise cornerstone and "Three first-round picks is a lot" reads better on paper than in upside. Utah gains immediate fit and defense but inherits long-term cost and future pick risk. Expect turbulence before clarity.