NBA Trade Rumors: Trae Young news that affects the Jazz draft

CLEVELAND, OHIO - APRIL 12: Trae Young #3 of the Washington Wizards waits during a timeout during the second quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on April 12, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

According to Jake Fischer, Trae Young is the backup target for teams who strike out on the Giannis sweepstakes.

The team Fischer mentions is the Miami Heat, but there are apparently other teams out there that might be interested.

From Fischer:

I’ve also been advised that there are a few teams out there which have begun weighing the prospect of pursuing the four-time NBA All-Star via trade, whichwould require the 27-year-old to activate his $49 million player option for 2026-27 rather than decline it by his June 23 deadline.

But how does this affect the Utah Jazz?

Well, it might actually decide who they draft. Could this rumor be flying because the Wizards have decided on Darryn Peterson with the #1 pick? Today, Peterson canceled all his remaining workouts. Did that also set off the possibility of Washington moving on from Young?

This could be nothing, but it’s more smoke that signals the Wizards may have made their decision with the #1 pick. Peterson has also mentioned he thinks of himself as a point guard. Is Peterson’s management pushing for the Young trade? Are they also avoiding having him lose touches to another point guard … like Keyonte George? Agencies want to do what’s best for their clients and give them the best opportunity possible. They very well could be pushing in ways that shape the future of the Jazz and Wizards.

If we want to get deep into the conspiracy theory…

Maybe the Wizards are looking for a trade, and if they find one, they will then draft Peterson. If it doesn’t work out, then maybe they pick Dybantsa to pair with Young?

I don’t know if it’s that simple, but who knows. I don’t think anyone expected the Wizards to trade for Young in the first place.