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[Saba Sports News] The Phoenix Suns and Utah Jazz finalized a trade this week that’s unusual in the NBA.
The Suns are reportedly sending their unprotected 2031 first-round pick to the Jazz in exchange for three future first-round picks. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the picks heading to Phoenix include:
1. The least favorable 2025 first-round pick from either the Minnesota Timberwolves or Cleveland Cavaliers,
2. The least favorable 2027 first-round pick from the Timberwolves, Cavaliers, or Jazz,
3. The least favorable 2029 first-round pick from the same pool of teams.
Trades without any players involved are rare outside of draft-day deals, but this move makes sense for both teams.
For the Suns, the 2031 pick was the only first-rounder they could trade under the NBA’s “Stepien Rule.” Acquiring Utah’s picks gives Phoenix three first-round assets they can potentially use in a blockbuster trade before the deadline. The Suns have been linked to several All-Star targets and are likely gearing up for a major move.
Meanwhile, the Jazz are focusing on the long term. Currently at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, Utah is expected to remain in the lottery for the next few years. The Suns’ unprotected 2031 pick, given its long timeline and uncertainty, could become the most valuable asset in the deal.
This marks Phoenix’s second trade of the month, and all signs point to more activity on the horizon.