I agree. I think the Jazz see Royce as a starter, possibly as soon as this season. He was clearly better than Ingles in the playoffs last season. It sounds like they're hell bent against trading Exum and possibly interested in getting rid of Favors. Ingles is the other guy that has to go if they want to sign a guy like Tobias at this point, which sucks.
It would make sense to deal Exum from a cap standpoint, but I'm not sure the Jazz can do it or have interest in actually doing it. How I'm seeing things right now:
• Favors is probably being shopped for a return or, though less likely, a S&T. Atlanta would be interesting for him and something I could see Utah trying to do as Favors has been good the organization and they'd want to do right for the guy if possible. If not, they'll release him with plenty of time left in FA for Favors to get a good deal. At worst, they return him. If that's our "at worst", we're in a good spot.
• Ingles probably isn't shopped heavily, but the FO is probably getting calls as other teams see Utah's motivations this off season with what the FO has signaled. If a top-tier FA were to signal to the Jazz they are going to come to the 801, then Utah pulls the trigger on a deal to clear the space.
• The FO may still like Exum's potential, but that interest has to have waned somewhat despite what Jones has said. As such, if they can offload him for a bag of Dorito's, they'll consider it if the right FA comes along. Exum is still young and could have just had a bad run of injuries. But there has to be a very thin patience with him this next season if he comes back. It's a do or die for him this year if he is kept and a deal was available.
• Bradley needs to put up this year or he'll not be retained next year. Simple as that. He's probably available as a kicker for right deal. I hope it works for him. Dude's a nice guy.
• Royce...lol nope, kthnxbye.
• I think the FO and Quin sees some potential in Niang to pull a Royce and develop into a damn good contributor. At worst, he's a cheap stretch 3/4. Utah will probably hang on to him and see how he develops with more minutes and if he can earn a spot in the rotation.
• The seconds we got are probably going to be end of the bench/Stars guys this year, but if one of 'em should pan out, all the better. They'll fill up space and get some garbage time. We'll see where they go, but I think Utah will keep them all available for the roster in some capacity.
