The Utah Jazz added forward Georges Niang to their roster last week in a trade with the Boston Celtics – a move that may signal a longer-term return for Niang to Salt Lake City.

Niang is no stranger to the Jazz, having spent four seasons with the team from 2017 to 2021. Following his first stint in Utah, he played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and most recently the Atlanta Hawks.

His path back to the Jazz began when Boston acquired him from Cleveland in a salary-clearing trade that sent Kristaps Porziņģis to Atlanta. Shortly afterward, the Celtics continued trimming payroll by shipping Niang to Utah.

In exchange, the Jazz sent two-way player R.J. Luis to Boston. Utah also received two future second-round draft picks as part of the deal, compensation for taking on Niang’s contract.

This summer, the Jazz have been busy reshaping their frontcourt around their young core.

In addition to Niang, the team has traded for Jusuf Nurkic, Kyle Anderson, and Kevin Love. Reports indicate that Love and the Jazz are exploring a potential buyout, which could allow the veteran to join a playoff contender next season.

Jazz Likely To Keep Georges Niang https://t.co/kSUx9W49aB