When the Conornavirus struck, the NBA quickly reacted by suspending games. Utah Jazz star center Rudy Gobert was the first player to be infected. Days prior, he joked about the virus and proceeded to touch every microphone. Also, it was reported that he was touching his teammates in the locker room. Then, it was reported that Donovan Mitchell, the other Jazz star player, tested positive for the virus. Even though both have fully recovered, their relationship will never be the same.
According to The Athletic NBA Writers Shams Charania and Sam Amick along with Jazz Writer T.J. Jones, Mitchell is ‘reluctant’ to fix his relationship with Gobert. They would go on to say a solution doesn’t appear to be salvageable. This will change the complexion of the Jazz. If things do not progress, one of these players could be moved when the league restarts.
The Bad Note: Rudy Gobert vs. Donovan Mitchell
Donovan Mitchell reportedly is "reluctant" to fix his relationship with Rudy Gobert.
"It doesn't appear salvageable," a source told @ShamsCharania, @sam_amick and @Tjonesonthenba pic.twitter.com/K96EvPleyU
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 10, 2020
Who Should Go?
The Jazz would love to keep both Gobert and Mitchell. Both players are held in high regard and are all-stars. But given the reports, this might not be an option. The decision will be tough. Gobert is a defensive juggernaut. He won the Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2019. Mitchell is one of the most dynamic scorers in the NBA and was having a career-year before the shutdown. In this scenario, the safest thing would be to move Gobert. He has been singled out by the NBA world for his careless act. While he has made amends, he has ruptured the Jazz locker room. It would be harder to move Gobert. Nobody knows how other teams feel about him. If the Jazz has to keep him, then Mitchell might demand a trade.
Teams for Rudy Gobert
Gobert is one of the premier centers in the NBA. He will become a defensive anchor on many teams. A lot of contenders would line up for him. Here are a few teams that could use Gobert:
Boston Celtics
The Celtics’ quest for a big man has fallen short so far. If Gobert is available, they should be at the front of the line. The Celtics are one piece away from being a complete team. Gobert’s services will be costly. The Jazz could ask for players such as Gordon Hayward, Enes Kanter, or Jaylen Brown among others.
Golden State Warriors
This might surprise some, but the Warriors make great sense. During their run, the Warriors always lacked a center who can grab rebounds and block shots. Gobert is a perfect fit for them. Also, the Warriors have a high draft pick, which will entice the Jazz to make a trade.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards are in need of a pop. They have been in limbo for the last few years. Gobert’s presence will create a new buzz for the franchise. Also, they must keep star Bradley Beal happy. Beal is on a short-term deal. If they want to keep him, landing Gobert will help their cause.
Teams For Donovan Mitchell
The Jazz will definitely try to keep Mitchell. But Mitchell might want out if they want to keep Gobert around. He might lose trust in the organization. Here are a few teams that will be at the front of the line for Mitchell.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors are one dominant player away from the NBA Finals. Mitchell will slide in perfectly with the Raptors. He will provide scoring in all three levels. A combo of Mitchell and Pascal Siakam will be dangerous for years to come.
New York Knicks
The Knicks want and need a star. Mitchell will be the perfect lift. He would breathe new life in New York. If the Knicks want to win within the next few years, they must sacrifice some of their young talent. The Jazz could ask for players like Kevin Knox or even RJ Barrett. With Mitchell growing every year, he will be worth the price.
Chicago Bulls
Like the Knicks, the Bulls have a roster full of young talent. Also, the organization needs to make major changes. Mitchell could be the player to change the complexion of the Bulls. In a trade, the Jazz could ask for Zach LaVine, who has been at odds with head coach Jim Boylen.
Main Photo: