5 defensive-minded NBA trade targets for the Utah Jazz to pursue
By Dalton Sell
Defensive-minded NBA trade targets for the Utah Jazz: Garrett Temple
Garrett Temple is another under-the-radar name that could make sense for the Jazz as they look to bulk up their defensive effort on the wing before the trade deadline. Temple’s name has been a staple in hypothetical NBA trade targets for contenders across the association because he would be an easy plug-in for several squads, with Utah being no exception.
The veteran has bounced around the league over the years and he has been a serviceable role player at each stop. The 6-foot-5 swingman can defend positions one through three and would fit the mold of the defensive-minded forward that the Jazz are seeking.
He would not bring much offensively, but Temple has been a decent outside shooter throughout his career, as he has knocked down 34.7 percent of his triples on 2.9 attempts over 11 seasons. Bringing in a two-way wing like Temple would be a solid addition to Utah’s bench unit.
Given how poorly the New Orleans Pelicans, Temple’s current team, have performed this season, it might be feasible to believe they would be willing to trade him for the right price.
The 35-year-old is making $4.9 million this season, making him a reasonable target from a financial standpoint for the Jazz. If they want to make a low-risk move to add more defense, Temple could be their man.