Lakers target Collins, Hachimura may become the core chips of the trade

According to the latest report by well-known journalist Evan Sidry, the Utah Jazz have officially put three players with expired contracts on their hands - John Collins, Colin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson - on the trading shelves and listen to the quotations of each team publicly. This move clearly shows that the Jazz management is actively making plans for the team's future and seeking asset optimization.

And among the many potential buyers, the Los Angeles Lakers are particularly quick to move. Several sources confirmed to reporter Anthony Irwin that the Lakers management has had a substantial conversation with the Jazz about a potential deal, and the core framework of the discussion is the swap between John Collins and Lakers forward Hachimura.

This news coincides with the earlier reports of Jazz reporter Andy Larson. Larson has made it clear that the deal discussion between the Lakers and Jazz about Collins "is true", and the negotiations are centered around the athletic striker.

Why do the Lakers keep a close eye on Collins?

Front court firepower upgrade: Collins averaged 15.1 points and 8.5 rebounds per game this season, possessing explosive physical fitness and stable ending ability at the basket. His excellent empty-cut awareness and rebounding scramble are the hard-solving elements that the Lakers' forwards urgently need.

Space adaptability: Although the stability of three-pointers needs to be improved, Collins has the ability to open up space (career three-point shooting percentage is 35.3%), which theoretically can form an offensive response to James Doncic.

Expiration contract value: Collins' contract will expire after the end of next season. The Lakers can use this transaction to retain future salary flexibility while providing targeted reinforcement.

Why did Hachimura become a key bargaining chip?

Young is a good match: Hachimura Ei averaged 13.1 points per game in the Lakers this season, shooting percentage as high as 53%, and his mid-range shooting is particularly stable. Its solid size (2.03 meters) and mature offensive techniques are attractive to the Jazz during the reconstruction/adjustment period.

Contract cost-effectiveness: Hachimura's contract has many years left and the amount is reasonable, which is in line with the Jazz's trading idea of ​​seeking "promising young players + future assets".

Position adaptation to Jazz: Jazz forwards need to be stable in scoring points, and Hachimura's plug and play attributes can quickly fill in the gaps.

Jazz Supermarket not only Corinth

In addition to Collins, the Jazz also opened trade discussions about Sexton (average 18.4 points, a full-scale shock guard) and Clarkson (average 17.1 points, a seasoned Super Sixer). These two players also attracted close attention from many teams in the league to seek backcourt reinforcement with their expiration contracts and immediate combat power.