u/TendiesGains

The main reason to trade up to take AJ (which should only cost a future first, per history of top 10 trades), is that historically, stars don’t stay in Utah in the modern NBA.

Gordon Hayward left for Boston. Donovan wanted out when he was traded. AJ came to BYU of all places, and loves Utah. I have medium confidence Darryn Peterson would make it past his second contract, while AJ would be a lifer and likely get a statue if he lives up to his 7-10 all-star billing potential.

The third contract will be the peak/top of his career, and KNOWING that AJ would be willing to stay in Utah is worth a future first.