The Jazz officially waived veteran guard Josh Richardson on Sunday, the team announced in a press release.
The move had been anticipated for several days, with reporting on Thursday indicating that Utah intended to part ways with Richardson after acquiring him from Miami as part of the five-time Jimmy Butler trade.
Richardson has had a productive NBA career as a role player in Miami, Philadelphia, Dallas, Boston, San Antonio, and New Orleans over the past 10 seasons, but has been plagued by a heel issue for much of 2024/25 and was limited to just eight appearances for the Heat.
Last season, in 43 games, Richardson averaged 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 25.7 minutes per night, with a .444/.347/.944 shooting line.
If he’s healthy, the 31-year-old could draw interest from playoff teams with open roster spots during the second half of the season. He’ll be eligible to sign with any team except the Heat.
Unless he’s claimed on waivers, which is unlikely, the Jazz will carry a $3,051,153 dead money cap hit after cutting Richardson. The move opens up a spot on Utah’s 15-man roster, which seems likely to be used to either promote a two-way player or to audition players on 10-day contracts.
If the Warriors get another guy who was traded for a guy they traded for, then they would be doing another variation of the Quinten Post – Lindy Waters – Quinten Post trade where 2 guys traded for each other end up as teammates shortly after!
The Warriors will have to be creative with any moves they make since they’re so close to the apron. They may be able to sign a player like Richardson to ten-day and rest-of-season minimum contracts and a player with two years or less experience like Jalen Hood-Schifino to a two-way.
Richardson with a bad heel > Bronny
Well he’s been in the league for 10 years so he qualifies for players union pension. He’s fine either way.