5 Basketball Players who Played for Jazz and Trail Blazers
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players who have played for both the Utah Jazz and Portland Trail Blazers.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Jazz and the Trail Blazers.
Rodney Hood
Rodney Hood was selected as the 23rd overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz. He played with the Jazz for three and a half seasons, showing promise as a scorer.
Hood has played for several NBA teams during his career, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers, Toronto Raptors, Milwaukee Bucks and LA Clippers. While with the Cavs, he reached the NBA Finals in the 2017-2018 season, although the team lost to the Golden State Warriors.
Known for his shooting ability, especially from beyond the three-point line, Hood has had seasons where he averaged double-digit points per game. His combination of size and skill has allowed him to contribute as a wing player in various systems.
*Hood was the most popular player for this square in a previous grid (Grid 30)
Wesley Matthews
Undrafted out of Marquette University in 2009, Wesley Matthews earned a roster spot with the Utah Jazz, making an immediate impact with his play. After a successful stint in Utah, he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers where he solidified his reputation as one of the league’s best 3-and-D players.
He became a critical piece of the Blazers’ backcourt alongside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, particularly excelling in 3-point shooting. Matthews ruptured his Achilles tendon in 2015, a significant setback, but returned to play for the Mavericks and has since bounced around with different teams.
Despite the various team changes, his consistency as a shooter and defender has remained, offering valuable contributions in the regular season and playoffs.
Mo Williams
Mo Williams is probably best known for his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Williams, a 6’1″ point guard, had a 13-year career that spanned from 2003 to 2017.
Williams had a breakout season with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2006-2007, averaging over 17 points per game. He was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2008, where he played alongside LeBron James and was named an All-Star in 2009. His high-scoring and playmaking ability made him a key part of the Cavaliers’ success during his tenure.
After bouncing around the league in the later stages of his career, Williams briefly rejoined the Cavaliers in 2015 and was part of the team’s championship roster in 2016, providing veteran leadership and depth off the bench.
Williams Key Stats
- All-Star (Cavs)
- NBA Championship (Cavs)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Bucks, Cavs, Jazz, Clippers, Timberwolves, Hornets)
Hassan Whiteside
Hassan Whiteside is a player known for his shot-blocking and rebounding prowess. After bouncing around different leagues and teams early in his career, Whiteside found a home with the Miami Heat in the mid-2010s where he developed into one of the premier interior defenders in the NBA.
Whiteside had a breakout season in 2015-2016 with the Heat when he led the NBA in blocks. The following season, he topped the league in rebounding, becoming a formidable presence in the paint. His extraordinary wingspan and athletic ability make him a significant threat on both ends of the floor.
However, Whiteside’s traditional back-to-the-basket style of play has sometimes clashed with the evolving nature of the NBA, which has seen a shift towards versatile big men who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions.
Whiteside Key Stats
- 10+ Rebounds/Game Season (Heat, Trail Blazers)
Earl Watson
Earl Watson was a player who spent significant time in the NBA as a point guard and later transitioned into coaching. Known for his leadership, toughness, and basketball IQ, Watson carved out a steady career as a role player and floor general.
Watson was drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics in the second round of the 2001 NBA Draft. Over the course of his playing career, he played for various NBA teams, including the Memphis Grizzlies, Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Indiana Pacers.
Though not a prolific scorer, Watson made his mark through his ability to distribute the ball, play solid defense, and provide leadership on and off the court.
Watson Key Stats
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Grizzlies, Supersonics, Thunder, Pacers)
