Thu, Jun 27, 2013 at 11:53pm

JAZZ GET HIGH-UPSIDE PIVOT GOBERT FOR GREEN

The Utah Jazz acquired center Rudy Gobert from the Denver Nuggets for combo guard Erick Green and cash considerations.

What does it give the Utah Jazz
It's hard to overstate how much of a potential steal this is by the Jazz. Gobert is definitely super-raw but few prospects in NBA history have possessed his incredible length (he's 7-foot-2 with a 7-foot-9 wingspan). Even fewer players with his dimensions are blessed with Gobert's nimble mobility, so he has the rare potential to be a dominant NBA center some day (although if it happens it won't be soon). Landing a player with Gobert's upside so late in Round 1 is a major coup for Utah, especially considering it only cost them a second-round selection (Green) and cash.

What does it give the Denver Nuggets
Above all this deal gives the Nuggets flexibility. Green is a very talented scorer who was seen by some as a first-round talent, and he can play either guard spot. While Denver doesn't have a pressing need for another scorer, they do face the prospect of losing star {P=1012 Andre Iguodala} in free agency this summer. Moreover, Green is a second-round pick (unlike Gobert) so he isn't guaranteed a contract, which gives the Nuggets options before next season (as does the cash they get in this deal). All that said, they may one day regret giving up Gobert.

Fantasy impact
For the upcoming NBA season Green is a more fantasy-viable player than Gobert, but Green still has to make the Nuggets' roster. When / if he does, Green can provide sixth man-type scoring and playmaking off the bench for Denver, although it wouldn't be wise to draft him anywhere but the late rounds in any fantasy format. As for Gobert, anyone in a deep keeper league should be considering stashing Gobert for a few seasons from now. He has rare and somewhat amazing physical tools.

Player focus

Utah Jazz

Rudy Gobert C

Denver Nuggets

Erick Green G

cash considerations