New York Knicks trade Tyson Chandler and Iman Shumpert to the Utah Jazz for the 23rd overall pick, Rudy Gobert, and a 2015 2nd round pick.
The Jazz have a ton of cap room. Some of it will be used to sign Gordon Hayward, who is a restricted free agent. They could certainly absorb a contract, as well. Tyson Chandler has a large $14.5 million salary, but it’s an expiring deal and he is still a productive player.
Utah needs a quality, veteran big man to split time with Enes Kanter, as he does not seem ready for a full-time role. It would also be a step in the right direction for a team who expects to be better next season. The team expects their core group of young players to step up and a veteran with championship experience like Chandler would help them grow along with his leadership, too.
Shumpert would provide depth at guard behind Alec Burks and Trey Burke. They currently have no guard depth under contract for next season behind the two incumbent starters. The former Georgia Tech player has one year left on his rookie deal, but it comes at a cheap $2.7 million.
The 23rd pick would obviously give the Knicks a better shot at Ennis or Hairston. Both could be gone by 29 if they take a deal for the 29th pick in exchange for Shumpert.
Rudy Gobert also gives the Knicks a fresh, young asset who they could give playing time to with no other center signed on the roster. The 2nd round pick in 2015 gives them another pick in a year where the team will likely not be good and will need all the young pieces they can get.
How do you think the Knicks could acquire picks?