There are two main reasons for the Jazz to make this deal. One, the Jazz needed to clear the way for some of the younger players on the roster. With Keyonte George, Isaiah Collier, Ace Bailey, Walter Clayton Jr., John Tonje, Brice Sensabaugh and Cody Williams all needing some back court time, the Jazz need to open up the roster a little bit.

Dec 3, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Utah Jazz guard Collin Sexton (2) and forward John Collins (20) high five after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the first quarter of an NBA Cup game at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images / Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

Yahoo Sports senior NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor looks at Utah's surprising trade that sent the shooting guard to Hornets - along with a future second round pick - in return for Jusuf Nurkic. Hear the full conversation on “The Kevin O’Connor Show” and subscribe on Apple Podcasts,