Utah Jazz
One potential spot that the San Antonio Spurs could look to trade back into the lottery to is No. 9. The pick is owned by the Utah Jazz who likely aren’t going to be able to find a foundational piece (to the level of their need) at this point in the NBA Draft. Because of that, the Jazz could be open to moving back. The question is, how back would the Jazz be willing to go? And that’s possibly where this entire possibility turns.
The question is, would the Jazz be willing to essentially eject on this draft in an attempt to add a future first? If so, the Spurs could be in business. San Antonio could theoretically send Devonte’ Graham, the 33rd overall pick (second-round) in this year’s NBA Draft, and a 2025 first-round pick (via Chicago) to the Jazz for the 9th pick. It may not be enough, but it’s probably the framework of a package that keeps Utah on the line.
Utah would probably ask for Devin Vassell or Keldon Johnson and that’s probably where the Spurs hang up the phone. But maybe this is a deal that works out considering the Jazz have a ton of future picks on the way and/or if they have big plans for free agency.
Then again, it’s probably never a good idea to completely punt on a draft for a rebuilding team.