To address their frontcourt challenges, the Utah Jazz have brought Mo Bamba on board with a 10-day contract. It's uncertain if this will evolve into a long-term arrangement, but it raises eyebrows considering KJ Martin was also available.
Martin, a standout acquisition for the Jazz at last year’s trade deadline, was on a favorable $8 million non-guaranteed deal. While he might not have filled the stat sheet, his ability to make electrifying plays was undeniable.
Fans will remember moments like his jaw-dropping highlights that lit up the court for the Jazz.
At just 25, Martin’s athleticism and knack for finishing at the rim made him a prime candidate for another stint with Utah. So why wasn't he given another shot?
The Jazz's decision to waive Martin, despite his team-friendly contract, was influenced by their inability to trade Kevin Love. Love, now a key veteran presence for Utah's young roster, has been invaluable, but it came at Martin’s expense.
Interestingly, Utah didn’t immediately part ways with Martin. They waited until September, after the offseason, to make their move. With Love, Jusuf Nurkic, and Taylor Hendricks in the mix, Martin’s role was set to diminish, leading to his departure.
Fast forward, and the Jazz are in a bind. Hendricks has moved on, Nurkic and Jaren Jackson Jr. are sidelined for the season, and Lauri Markkanen is out indefinitely.
With Walker Kessler also unavailable, the Jazz's big man rotation is thin, featuring Love, Bamba, Kyle Filipowski, and Oscar Tshiebwe. Martin could have been a valuable asset here.
This isn’t a knock on Bamba, who’s been waiting patiently for this opportunity. If things go well, it could open more doors for him. However, Martin seemed like a more fitting choice.
Perhaps Martin wasn’t an option?
Currently playing in the Chinese Basketball Association for the Ningbo Rockets, Martin might not have had an opt-out clause or the desire for a short stint with the Jazz. Players transitioning to the CBA often find stardom overseas, which might appeal more to Martin than a temporary NBA role.
Ultimately, the Jazz may have simply chosen a player eager for another NBA shot in Bamba. Yet, given Utah’s current situation, Martin’s skills and familiarity with the team could have made him a logical addition.