Olivier Hanlan, the No. 42 overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft by the Jazz, has signed a deal with the Lithuanian club Zalgiris Kaunas, the team announced (translation by Emiliano Carchia of Sportando). The pact is for two years and includes an option for the second season, though it is unclear if that is a team or player option.
If the Jazz are to retain Hanlan’s NBA rights, the team will need to extend him at least a one-year, non-guaranteed contract offer. Hanlan is not required to sign the agreement for Utah to hold onto the point guard’s rights, and he would become a draft-and-stash player as a result.
The 22-year-old appeared in 32 contests for Boston College last season and averaged 19.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. His slash line was .454/.353/.759.
I’m a little surprised he’s not going to be on the Jazz this coming season, but as we’ve seen this year, Utah certainly doesn’t hesitate to circle back and sign draft-and-stash guys.
I think Utah is trying to avoid having too much inexperience at the one spot. That’s why the push to acquire the veteran presence of Temple. Going the draft-and-stash route makes sense here.