Jazz Plan Competitive 2025-26 Season Despite Rebuild Challenges

The Utah Jazz, who have been rebuilding since trading stars Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert, are expected to struggle again in the 2025-26 NBA season despite having promising young players like Lauri Markkanen and Collin Sexton. New President of Basketball Operations Austin Ainge has indicated the team will likely use all four of their draft picks in the upcoming NBA Draft and remain open to trades, aiming to improve the roster without tanking. Contrary to past seasons, Jazz sources confirm the team will try to compete and win games next year, regardless of the roster's youth and experience level, signaling a shift in team philosophy. Despite finishing with the worst record in the Western Conference, the Jazz hold valuable draft capital and could make significant roster moves to become more competitive. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly considering trading star guard Austin Reaves to the Jazz for center Walker Kessler and other veterans, aiming to fill their frontcourt void and build a more balanced roster for the 2025-26 season. This potential trade could benefit both teams, with the Jazz gaining a promising guard and the Lakers acquiring a center with strong defensive potential.