Wizards trade rumor involving AJ Dybantsa hints at Jazz making blockbuster deal

When the Utah Jazz received the No. 2 overall pick in Sunday's NBA Draft Lottery, one of the biggest questions was if the team would move up? As it stands now, there's not only serious interest, but conversations about the Jazz possibly leaping for BYU star AJ Dybantsa.

This year's projected top pick, who grew up in Massachusetts, played his final high school season at Utah Prep before a one-and-done at BYU. Jazz owner Ryan Smith and CEO Danny Ainge have been involved with the Cougars NIL fundraising effort and helped secure Dybantsa.

According to Andscape's Marc J. Spears, Utah started to ask around about what Washington might require for the No. 1 overall pick. "The Jazz have reached out to the Washington Wizards, who have the No. 1 pick, about potentially trading up to land the former BYU standout, a source said."

Why Jazz Might Be Interested in Trade for No. 1 Pick

The buzz around Utah has been Dybantsa since he arrived at BYU last year. There's been no shortage of interest, and to keep a generational talent with the same core group that brought him to Provo would be great for all parties involved. Smith and Ainge get a player they've known personally for years and would trust to put the Jazz back on the map in the midst of another rebuild.

Dybantsa is similar to Kevin Durant or an undersized Kevin Garnett. He's athletic and has a great game inside and out. That fit is what's key in the situation. The Jazz feel like Dybantsa is one-of-a-kind and worth putting up assets to get him.

Washington would also have to be willing to do business

CBS Sports' Adam Finkelstein reported this week from the NBA Combine that Dybantsa was hoping to remain in Utah. This means either Washington will have to pass on him due to being non-committal in the draft process or play hardball with Utah.

Keep in mind, Smith told The Deseret News that "everything should be on the table" for a chance at snagging Dybantsa. Either way, this is setting up to be a blockbuster offer in the making for one of a few generational talents in this year's draft. 

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