10 Way-too-early 2024 trade deadline candidates Warriors should monitor
By Tyler Watts
9. Kelly Olynyk
The rebuilding Jazz are not ready to make the jump into contention, which should put Olynyk on the trade block before the deadline. He is in the final year of his contract and making $12.1 million.
Olynyk is extension eligible, but the 32-year-old does not fit Utah’s timeline. He is one of four players on their roster over 26 years old, and the Jazz should focus on maximizing the playing time of their young talent.
The 6’11 big man offers a unique skill set. He shot 39.4 percent from 3-point range last season as he averaged 12.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 0.9 steals in 28.6 minutes per game. Olynyk could help the Dubs space the floor at the four or five and his playmaking chops would be valuable in their second unit. He could backup Draymond Green and Kevon Looney and give the Warriors a different look.
The Golden State Warriors will struggle to match Kelly Olynyk’s salary. They could offer Gary Payton II and a couple of small contracts, but would the Jazz accept a three-for-one offer with some draft capital attached? The Dubs have to send out more money than they take back, which could be difficult on any mid-tier salary player.