Joe Ingles traded to Portland Trail Blazers by Utah Jazz before NBA trade deadline

Injured Australian star Joe Ingles has been traded away by the Utah Jazz ahead of the NBA trade deadline.

Ingles, who is out for the rest of the season after tearing his ACL last week, has reportedly been moved in a three-way deal between the Jazz, Portland Trail Blazers and San Antonio Spurs.

According to ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski, so famous for breaking NBA news that his tweets are often called «Woj bombs», Ingles is being shipped to Portland along with Elijah Hughes and a second-round pick.

Ingles said even though he saw it coming, the news was still painful to hear.

«Today hurts,» he wrote on Twitter.

«I knew it was a possibility but didn't want to believe it. We have been lucky to call this place home for 8 years!

»I got a lot more to say, but I'm going to have a beer and relax with some good friends.

«Go get a win fellas! I'll always be watching.»

The 34-year-old has played all eight of his NBA seasons with the Utah Jazz, becoming their all-time leader in three-point shooting, but was on the last year of his contract so he is a free agent in the summer.

Portland is effectively acquiring him to get salary cap space for the off-season.

That means the door remains open for a possible return to Utah, which he has made his home with wife and ex-netball star Renae, and their three children.

«Appreciate the love and support from near and far,» the former Australian Diamond said on social media.

«Today is so sad. I don't have the words to put together just yet.

»Incredibly grateful for the last eight years here as part of the Jazz family and Utah community. Focus is Joe's knee and rehab.

«Deeply saddened and thankful for you all.»

Joe Ingles said in anticipation of being traded that he understood the Jazz may have to move him this