NBA Trade Rumors: Jazz Edge Past Lakers for Raptors’ Bruce Brown

The Utah Jazz, in a surprising turn of events, have joined the list of courters for Bruce Brown Jr. The Toronto Raptors received Brown in the deal that sent Pascal Siakam to the Indiana Pacers. With the Los Angeles Lakers not seeing much advancement in their pursuit of Atlanta’s Dejounte Murray, Bruce was someone they saw as a good fit with the Purple & Gold.

Toronto, for its part, has made it quite clear what they expect in return – a first-round pick. And that’s not a luxury the Lakers have right now. So anyone paying the right price is welcome to have Brown. As such, in the most recent update by Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, Utah has come forward with a proposition.

The Raptors have reportedly “discussed a framework” that will bring Kelly Olynyk and Ochai Agbaji to Toronto. “What draft capital could be part of that conversation remains to be seen,” Fischer remarked. As mentioned above, the Canadian franchise has been quite serious in its demand. So, Fischer’s comment is probably one that has crossed the minds of many.

Yet, it’s important to note that the discussions are taking place. While the Jazz might hold an advantage over the Lakers’ current situation, nothing is set in stone. Particularly when Utah has already received an offer with a first-round pick in return, according to Michael Grange of Sportsnet.

LA, unfortunately, could not garner interest with D’Angelo Russell on the table. Now, if it were Austin Reaves, the outcome could have been quite different. But the crowd-favorite Reaves isn’t going anywhere, anytime soon. That leaves the Lakers with better chances in the summer when they can bait teams with two first-round picks.

Yet, if a Utah-Toronto deal does happen, how do the players fit in their respective destinations?

Bruce Brown in Utah vs Olynyk and Agbaji in Toronto

Bruce Brown comes with a championship pedigree, having played a key role in leading the Denver Nuggets to a championship. The Jazz still looks to make it to title contention, and pairing Brown with Utah’s lead man, Lauri Markkanen seems to be the way to go about it.

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Meanwhile, Toronto’s forward center Olynyk can offer assistance to Scottie Barnes, but the Canadian veteran’s expiring contract allows him to be easily redirected to another team. Agbaji, on the other hand, could find a long-time home with the Raptors. Although none of the guard’s numbers jump out as impressive, he is still young.

Toronto can very well shape him into a solid player. But for any of this to happen, there has to be a sealed deal in place. What do you think of the latest development with less than 24 hours before the deadline? Let us know your opinion below!

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