John Collins, the Utah Jazz forward, has exercised his $26.5 million player option for the 2024-2025 NBA season, according to sources cited by Shams Charania of ESPN. The decision came before the deadline on Thursday, confirming his roster spot for next year and fueling discussions about the Jazz’s future roster moves.
Performance and Injury Impacted Season
This season, Collins averaged 19.0 points and 8.2 rebounds per game but was limited to 40 appearances after suffering a left ankle sprain on March 12. The Jazz chose to rest multiple veteran players late in the season to boost their draft lottery chances, which affected Collins’ playing time and overall contribution during the final stretch.
Contract Background and Trade Rumors
The player option represents the last year of the five-year contract Collins originally signed in 2021 while playing for the Atlanta Hawks. After being traded to Utah in 2023, he has established himself as a regular starter. Trade discussions have surrounded Collins and some of his teammates, with his confirmed status adding fresh momentum to the speculation. His name emerged frequently around the February trade deadline, including possible deals involving the Sacramento Kings.
Salary Considerations and Team Strategy
Alongside Lauri Markkanen, who has a salary of $46.4 million, Collins will be among the Jazz’s highest-paid players next season. The team’s new president of basketball operations, Austin Ainge, faces decisions regarding the allocation of their salary cap, particularly with two expensive power forwards occupying key spots. The outcome of the ongoing draft, where Utah holds multiple picks including No. 5 and No. 21, could also influence the Jazz’s direction and Collins’ role going forward.
Career Overview of John Collins
Now 27 years old, Collins was selected 19th overall by Atlanta in the 2017 NBA draft. Over his career, he has played in 472 games, maintaining averages of 16.0 points and 8.1 rebounds while averaging 30.5 minutes on the court each night. His consistent performance and recent contract decision highlight his continuing value to the Jazz franchise.