Georges Niang, recently traded from the Boston Celtics to the Utah Jazz, will miss the start of training camp due to a foot injury. The Jazz announced Saturday that the 32-year-old forward suffered a stress reaction in the fourth metatarsal of his left foot during offseason workouts. He’ll be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Niang was dealt to Utah in August as part of a salary-clearing move by Boston. The Celtics included two second-round picks along with Niang in exchange for two-way forward RJ Luis Jr., an undrafted rookie from St. John’s. The trade freed up $8.2 million in cap space and opened a roster spot, which Boston used to sign veteran big man Chris Boucher.
Niang had originally landed in Boston through a three-team deal in June that sent Kristaps Porzingis to Atlanta. Though he never suited up for the Celtics, Niang was expected to be a depth option for Utah. Last season, he split time between the Cavaliers and Hawks, averaging 9.9 points and 3.4 rebounds per game while shooting 40% from three over 79 games.
This marks a return to familiar territory for Niang, who previously played four seasons with the Jazz from 2017 to 2021 after being drafted by the Pacers in 2016. He’ll be battling for playing time in a crowded Utah frontcourt featuring Kyle Anderson, Kevin Love, Lauri Markkanen, Taylor Hendricks, and others.
Utah begins training camp next week and will face the Celtics in Boston on November 3rd.
