The first name that usually comes to mind when speaking about the Utah Jazz is forward Gordon Hayward. However, there is a possibility they will not keep him for long and before this happens, a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers could be considered. 

Hayward has a player option in his current contract and following the 2016-17 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, he can be a free agent. It is likely the 26-year-old will choose to re-sign with the franchise but if there are signs that he is aiming to leave, then dealing him is the best choice to fully utilize his value. 

In a possible swap, The Blazers are giving up Allen Crabbe, Pat Connaughton, with future first- and second-round picks to the Jazz for Hayward.

This switch could be beneficial for the Blazers and Jazz as they move forward. But for the latter, they need to observe Hayward first, either he aims to stay or intends to opt out of his pact. 

However, if it happens, there are positives for the squads involved. For the Jazz, losing Hayward is a tough blow but at least they got something in exchange for him. Crabbe is a young guard who has great potential, while Connaughton is capable of seeing action as a shooting guard and small forward. Picks are helpful especially for a franchise that lost its star player.

Perhaps others think that once Hayward leaves, it is mandatory for the Jazz to rebuild. But that may not be the case since they still have young talented players who will be guided by a number of solid veterans, plus their new additions can also be expected to contribute immediately. 

The Blazers, on the other hand, may have just completed the puzzle with Hayward. He could be the guy that helps Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum re-establish the franchise as a legitimate title contender.