It seems like Rudy Gobert’s time in Utah is coming to an end. However, it has nothing to do with his ability to make an impact on the court, but because of his poor relationship with his teammates, especially Donovan Mitchell.
Apparently, the way he mishandled the preventive measures for the COVID-19 pandemic was a breaking point for Gobert and his peers, so the Utah Jazz may be forced to trade their Defensive Player of the Year this upcoming summer.
Needless to say, him being one of the best defenders in the world, several teams are going to line up to try and make a run at his contract in the offseason. But, who could put together the best offer? Let’s break it down:
Dallas Mavericks
Trade Package: Dwight Powell, Tim Hardaway Jr., a 2020 2nd-Round Pick and a 2025 1st-Round Pick for Rudy Gobert
The Dallas Mavericks would be delighted to put together a European superteam with Luka Doncic, Kristaps Porzingis, and Rudy Gobert. Also, they would have one of the deadliest frontcourts in the league with that much size and length. Those twin towers would be a nightmare below the rim.
Also, that would free Porzingis to play as their full-time power forward where he thrives the most in the offensive end. Gobert’s presence down low and pick-and-roll game would get them a bunch of wide-open shots, and they have enough assets to give away with multiple 2nd-round picks in this upcoming Draft.
Golden State Warriors
Trade Package: Draymond Green and a 2020 1st-Round Pick for Rudy Gobert
Perhaps this is a bit of a reach, as the Golden State Warriors will be entitled to a top-5 pick in this upcoming Draft. However, it seems like they’re not completely sold on any of the players of this upcoming Draft class, which isn’t exactly stacked with talent.
So, parting ways with Draymond Green would be tough for them, but both teams would be getting a top-tier defender in return. Also, Utah would have a top-5 pick to pair with Donovan Mitchell for the long run, while the Warriors would have a player that’s already in his prime and could help them while their title window is still open.
New York Knicks
Trade Package: Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, Frank Ntilikina, and a future 2nd-Round Pick for Rudy Gobert
The New York Knicks are always linked to star players in trades, as they know they’re more likely to get a top-notch player via trade than in free agency. Also, they could have a lot of cap space next summer to build around Gobert or any other star they get.
The Utah Jazz would end up clearly winning this trade as they would get a poor man’s Gobert on Robinson, plus Julius Randle’s never-ending energy on both sides of the boards. Also, Frank Ntilikina could even be a defensive upgrade over an aging Mike Conley.
Los Angeles Clippers
Trade Package: Montrezl Harrell (sign-and-trade), Patrick Beverley and Lou Williams For Rudy Gobert And a 2nd-Round Pick
The Los Angeles Clippers haven’t hesitated to add more talent to their roster this season and they know their title window is closing with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard’s contracts set to run out a couple of years for now. So, they could add another great stopper to their defensive juggernaut.
They would have to part ways with Lou Williams in order to do that, but they already have Reggie Jackson as their source of offense for the bench. Also, Landry Shamet could slide into Patrick Beverley’s spot in the starting lineup.
Atlanta Hawks
Trade Package: Clint Capela, Cam Reddish, De’Andre Hunter and Kevin Huerter for Rudy Gobert
The Atlanta Hawks have put together a strong and impressive young core, but it seems like they’re not going to be able to compete until they anchor their defense. For that matter, they could create a new Big 3 with Trae Young, John Collins, and Rudy Gobert.
Perhaps this offer may seem a bit of an overpay, but it’s actually quite fair. The Jazz would get enough value in return and players that may take a couple of years before being able to contribute. The Hawks could finally make a run back at a playoff spot.
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