Utah’s Trade Posture, Hornets’ Plans, and Other NBA Rumor Notes
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December 18, 2025 — Front offices across the NBA are keeping a close eye on several clubs as the trade season unfolds, according to a report by HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto.
Jazz weighing moves while protecting 2026 first-round pick
Utah owes its 2026 first-round selection to Oklahoma City if the pick falls outside the top eight. With a 10-15 record, the Jazz currently hold the league’s 10th-worst mark, putting that pick in jeopardy. Rival executives wonder whether Utah will weaken its roster to improve its lottery odds, but team officials continue to indicate they want to build around forward Lauri Markkanen.
The Pistons, Spurs, and Grizzlies are viewed as possible suitors should Markkanen become available. Looking ahead, the Jazz intend to use 2026 cap space to upgrade via free agency or trades. Center Walker Kessler also remains a priority; sources say Utah turned down a Lakers proposal comparable to L.A.’s offer for Mark Williams. Kessler’s projected cap hold sits at roughly $14.6 million before any new deal.
Hornets monitoring health, future of Brandon Miller
Charlotte hopes to evaluate its roster with LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, No. 3 pick Kon Knueppel, and Miles Bridges all available. However, Miller’s inconsistent availability has some executives questioning whether the former No. 2 overall choice is still untouchable in trade talks.
Trey Murphy III drawing interest, but Pelicans reluctant
The Warriors and Trail Blazers are reportedly high on Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III. Even so, league sources believe Golden State would first pursue Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo before surrendering major assets for Murphy. Many executives remain skeptical that New Orleans would move Murphy at all, suggesting it could take a package comparable to the return Memphis secured for Desmond Bane.
Pacers–Kings exploratory talks include Jarace Walker
After noting Indiana’s interest in Kings guard Keon Ellis, Scotto adds that forward Jarace Walker surfaced in preliminary discussions between the teams. It is unclear which side introduced Walker’s name.
Jonathan Kuminga watch continues
The Kings remain interested in Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga. Scotto reports diminished interest from the Suns and minimal interest from the Nets, while the Pelicans’ current stance is uncertain.
European clubs eye Beasley and Payne
Serbian powerhouse Partizan Belgrade has contacted free-agent guard Cameron Payne. Fellow free agent Malik Beasley has attracted inquiries from EuroLeague contenders Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, along with Chinese Basketball Association teams Liaoning, Guangdong, and Shanxi.
Source: HoopsRumors
