Utah Jazz Centre Enes Kanter Wants To Be Dealt Before Trade Deadline

Utah Jazz former lottery pick Enes Kanter has asked the team to deal him before the trade deadline, according to several news outlets. The Turkish-descent player has been demanding a transfer for a few months now and has intensified his desire to suit up for a different team.

The trade wish of Kanter solidifies a long standing notion that he did not plan to stay with the team long-term. During the 2011 NBA Draft when he was selected third overall by the Jazz, the 22-year-old centre was reportedly not too happy with the selection. Kanter is reportedly unhappy with his role and playing time dating back to his years under former coach Tyrone Corbin.

"Frustrated by his role during his three-plus years in Utah, center Enes Kanter told The Salt Lake Tribune he hopes to be traded before this year's deadline. Kanter expressed his frustration after Wednesday's 87-82 loss to the Mavericks, a game in which Kanter left with an eye injury and did not play in the fourth quarter despite his claim that he was healthy enough to play,” Aaron Falk of the Salt Lake tribune broke the story.

With the emergence of French centre Rudy Gobert, the threat of his minutes dwindling some more has become more apparent. Given that Kanter still ranks fourth in total minutes played and just under 100 minutes less than Derrick Favors, there is no clear indication that the team is holding back the young offensive player in the minutes’ department. The team tried to keep him long term during the summer but was unable to sign Kanter to a contract extension before the Oct. 31 deadline, making a restricted free agent this coming summer.

While Kanter has been lacking development in the defence department, his back to the basket game and his offensive arsenal has improved through the years, making him a good commodity for teams looking to acquire young centres to develop. The Boston Celtics and the Phoenix Suns have appealing assets that can entice the Jazz and can mutually benefit from an exchange. The Suns are looking for a first round pick in exchange for similarly soon-to-be restricted free agent Goran Dragic while the Celtics have a multitude of picks to send to the Jazz in exchange for the young player.

For concerns on this story, contact the author at v.hidalgo@ibtimes.com.au.