2010 NBA Trade Rumors: Al Jefferson to Be Traded to the Utah Jazz

Jerry Zgoda of the Minneapolis Star Tribune is reporting that the Utah Jazz and Minnesota Timberwolves are working out the final details of a trade which would send Al Jefferson to the Jazz.  

In order to afford his three year, $42 million contract, Utah would utilize the trade exception that they were granted when Carlos Boozer left for Chicago.

In return for Jefferson, the T-Wolves would receive the rights to a protected first round pick from Memphis (sent to the Jazz through the Ronnie Brewer trade), as well as other player(s) or pick(s) to be named later.  

As a result, this move would effectively serve to fortify the hole left in Utah's frontcourt after Boozer's departure.

Additionally, it would help to calm the nerves of Jazz fans, especially after All-Star point guard Deron Williams recently spoke out about his displeasure regarding the franchise's lack of activity this offseason. Therefore, should Jefferson and the Jazz achieve some success together, the chances would be less likely that Williams would be tempted to pursue free agency when his contract expires in 2012.

For Minnesota, alternatively, the team would be able to clear some cap space, while also opening significant spots in the rotation for newly acquired forward Michael Beasley and recently re-signed Darko Milicic. Consequently, these two would then be expected to handle the majority power forward and center duties, alongside Kevin Love.

Furthermore, due to the cap relief which would be gained through this deal, the Timberwolves are expected to pursue point guard Luke Ridnour, while still seeking to move Ramon Sessions.  

The completion of this trade would continue one of the many trends of this offseason, as the strong would get stronger, with the Jazz filling a gaping hole, and the weak would get weaker, with the Wolves fully committing to their process of rebuilding.

UPDATE: On Tuesday, July 13, the trade was finalized, with the Jazz sending two future first round draft picks and Orlando Summer League standout Kosta Koufos to Minnesota for Al Jefferson.