Given the Jazz’s numerous roster holes and dim playoff odds, it seems like “retooling around Mitchell” is more about posturing than intent. This trade mimics the Gobert framework of numerous picks plus young prospects (NYK could also add Rokas or Deuce / might need to throw in Quickley). In exchange, Utah gets back a fan-favorite who Ainge has targeted in the past, and the Hornets improve their front court amidst the Miles Bridges uncertainty.

NYK: Allows the Knicks to “get their star” while also moving on from Randle and preserving enough long-term assets to remain competitive and keep building.

UTA: Similar to the Gobert package, this gets the Jazz what’s likely the best package available with the Hawks no longer engaging and the Heat lacking the necessary picks (can only trade 2023, 2027, and 2029 firsts). Unless Utah believes Herro is “the guy” (I think he’s a fantastic 6th man, but too weak defensively), no other rumored suitor can offer (i) 5 firsts and (ii) 2+ interesting rookie-deal prospects.

CHA: As the Hornets try to build around LaMelo, adding Randle could give CHA an upside swing at a strong running mate. Randle’s shooting, attitude, and defense need to recover, but he remains a talented playmaker who would likely benefit from LaMelo’s passing vision and ability to play fast. Given that it would only cost Gordon Hayward, Bouknight (coming off a weak rookie season), and a long-dated pick, this would be a very cheap upside bet.