4. Rudy Gobert, Center
If the situation between the two big Utah Jazz stars, center Rudy Gobert and shooting guard Donovan Mitchell, is really as bad as it seems, then the options on the trade market could start to open up. According to an ESPN report from back on April 12, Gobert feels the rift might not be as bad as it truly is with Mitchell.
What caused this so-called rift between Gobert and Mitchell is what happened when the former tested positive for the novel coronavirus back in mid-March. Gobert was the first NBA player to be announced to have tested positive for COVID-19. The NBA would place its season on hiatus soon thereafter. But Gobert was making a mockery of the situation prior to that announcement of his diagnosis.
The drama between those two has caused some speculation that Gobert could be on the move if this won’t be a functional locker room situation. An April 20 report from David Aldridge of The Athletic stated that Gobert might be “more available” than you would think. Potential trade packages and rumors were flying around since then.
The Jazz wanting to dish out Gobert would definitely draw plenty of suitors. He’s still just in the early years of his prime. The one-time All-Star selection, two-time All-NBA honoree, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, and one-time blocks champ, would be a highly sought after commodity on the trade block.
Prior to the NBA season hiatus, Gobert was averaging 15.1 points per game, 13.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.8 steals, and 2.0 blocks, while shooting 69.8 percent from the field. He would be a nice addition to the Bulls frontcourt if they don’t feel that center Wendell Carter Jr. or power forward Lauri Markkanen is the answer for the future of this rebuild.