OPEN: Understanding TRADE TALK : Utah Jazz Strategy and Lauri Markkanen’s Future | Ace Bailey Shines
David Locke, radio voice of the Utah Jazz and Jazz NBA Insider, breaks down what it truly means when a team is “open to trading” a star like Lauri Markkanen. Locke clarifies that the Utah Jazz are not actively pursuing a Markkanen deal, emphasizing his unique versatility, contract value, and perfect fit alongside rising rookie Ace Bailey and other young prospects. He challenges the logic behind trading a proven cornerstone, arguing that Markkanen’s skill set allows him to mesh with any lineup as the franchise builds toward contention. Locke also unpacks the impact of rookie contract structures, projecting how the Jazz can leverage cap space to assemble a dynamic core around Keonte George, Walker Kessler, and future draft picks—without gutting the roster for speculative returns.
The episode takes listeners inside preseason excitement, spotlighting Ace Bailey’s rapid-fire shooting skills and raising crucial questions about Cody Williams’ early struggles and projected role. Locke examines the evolution of the point guard position, hypothesizing that Keonte George will seize the starter slot barring major breakthroughs from Isaiah Collier or Walt Clayton. With Taylor Hendricks, Walker Kessler, and Lowry Markkanen’s collective wingspan, Locke wonders if defensive length alone could swing close games for Utah. On-court chemistry gets a fresh boost in the wake of Colin Sexton, John Collins, and Jordan Clarkson’s departures, as Locke notes a shift toward team-first basketball. Tactics, cap management, and player development all combine for a nuanced outlook on the future of the Jazz.
00:00 “SEG Plus Updates & Features”
05:46 “Building a Team for Success”
07:06 “Trust Decisions by Experts”
10:11 “Locked On Jazz Discussion Points”
15:03 “Managing Expectations for Cody”
16:45 Jazz Rotation & Point Guard Outlook
21:03 Heroism vs Team Dynamics
28:53 “Walker and Taylor’s Growth Plan”
30:19 “Jazz’s Walker Decision Explained”
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11 Comments
Can seg+ let you start the game from the beginning while the game is in progress or do you still have to wait until the game is over to start watching from the beginning?
"Locke" you need to grab ya' one of those zip cords they have for I.D. badges and keep it connected to your laptop 😂😉lol
11:48 I agree with all of your Lauri points, particularly that he fits with what we're currently doing and it is unlikely they are actively shopping him. Don't tell James Hanson that though, I don't even want to go onto SLC Dunk today knowing these reports are out there.
I would say it's more like they aren't looking for trades, but they're open to hearing from teams. It's almost like you're not looking for a new job, but if the perfect one comes to you, you'll listen to them
Lots of talk about LM 23, and rightfully so, but my concerns are Walkers contract and the fact there is no true point guard on the team . No offense to Isaiah Collier
I love Lauri Markkanen and if he stays it will be great. But if the Jazz Management feels like they need to strike while the iron is hot 🔥 meaning they may have learned a few hard lessons on waiting a bit too long to trade a player and missing out their top value as a trade option. If that ends up being the situation, then there are really only 3 trade ideas I've heard of that make the most sense
1- San Antonio, Dylan Harper Devin Vasell and draft picks.
2- Miami, Kel'el Ware, players and draft picks
3- Detroit, Jaden Ivey, Ausar Thompson + pick.
I'm not sure how all the contacts would work out with their money having to match 😊 But those seem to be the best options as far as Trade Ideas.
This year finally feels like a real chance to evaluate the coaching, and so far, Hardy’s done a solid job. The ball movement is crisp, and the players seem to have great energy. But defense has to be better. And let’s be real—accountability starts with the coaching staff. It’s not about being everyone’s buddy. It’s about demanding effort, setting the tone, and making sure every player knows defense isn’t optional. That mindset has to be non-negotiable.
Let’s set the tone now. #JazzNation #TakeNote #DefenseWins
There is no way Svi Mykhailiuk should ever be ahead of Brice Sensebaugh or Walter Clayton, or Cody Williams. He doesn't help the development of this team in any way he is Gleague player at Best. He is ball chucker a turn over nightmare and he isn't in any plans of this team moving forward. It's so frustrating
Boy you took your smart pills today. Good job David. Your biggest POD competitor in the market (11,000+ followers) spent all last year telling everyone how stupid our brass was not to dump Markkanen. I finally had to quit listening even though our market is starved for quality consistent Jazz PODs. You drive me crazy at times David but I love you man.
Great Friday take!
I think they are kicking themselves they didn’t trade Lauri for the GSW trade package a year ago. Now he’s basically a bad contract. Who is gonna play a guy who barely plays 60 games a year max money? I think they desperately want to trade him but will hold the line to paying to get rid of him like they did Colin Sexton. So basically like matching salary and one unprotected first from a sub par team I’m sure would do it. Thinking they are gonna get a rich package is sorta crazy homer think.