2020/2021? off season [Archive] - Message Board Basketball Forum

Xiao Yao You

09-03-2020, 04:18 AM

That mostly meant promoting guys up the bench. Niang and Tony Bradley, intended to be deep bench specialists, got regular roles. Around the same time, desperate for second-unit shot creation while Conley sat, they acquired Clarkson.

Niang the only vet 4 on the team and that is only because he is too slow for the 3. Bradley did well. Should have had a cheap vet behind him

Clarkson is sort of in his own weird subcategory here; he was far more valuable than the rest of the bench guys and provided something the Jazz desperately needed at that point: just a bucket-getting robot with very little conscience. But because he mostly contributes as a scorer, things get a little tenuous for him when his shot isn’t dropping. He’s fairly average for his positional grouping in terms of points per shot attempt, but he is in just the ninth percentile for assists relative to his usage rate, and he gives up a lot on defense. When he is making shots, the Jazz feel very fortunate to have him. When he isn’t, he doesn’t add a ton else.

doesn't fit. Thinks he's the only option no matter who is on the floor. Bye bye

Look, if Clarkson is your 8th best player, you’re probably in pretty good shape, and that’s what he’ll be if Utah makes one more solid addition and also gets Bogdanovic back. But if you need him to be your 6th best, which Utah needed during this playoff run, there are going to be nights he leaves you wanting more. Give him credit: he performed far better this time around than in his only other postseason experience, and he really cleaned up his shot profile after arriving in Utah. But he’s still a bit of a one-skill specialist, and the Jazz aren’t as desperate for that one skill as they were in December. If they can keep him for a price that is commensurate with the 7th/8th-man type of role that he’s best suited for, I think they will. But they have other priorities this offseason that rank far higher on the list, like big man depth and shoring up the perimeter defense.

be surprised if they didn't keep him given their track record despite their needs

After Clarkson, the Jazz could probably stand to upgrade just about every rotation spot. Niang had his moments in the regular season and playoffs, but still has a giant target painted on his chest on the defensive end. Bradley improved some, but is still far from being a playoff asset — and Quin Snyder evidently agrees since he phased Bradley out of the rotation as the series went along. Fans clamored for a bigger role for Morgan, but he was relentlessly targeted in his playoff appearances. Jarrell Brantley, Rayjon Tucker and Miye Oni showed flashes, but none cracked the playoff rotation. Mudiay struggled in his brief playoff action, while rookie guards Nigel Williams-Goss and Justin Wright-Foreman barely saw any playing time this season.

the rookies should have gotten a shot. They'd probably be playing the Clipps.

It seems pretty clear: Utah needs a couple of bench upgrades to complement their still-improving stars. Most real contenders have seven or eight guys who could start on most teams. The Jazz had six, and with Bogey on the shelf that was more like five this past offseason. They need another grown-up or two for their rotation, specifically in the frontcourt and on the wings.

Need a starting 4

Utah doesn’t need another star to turn the corner. They’d take one if one fell into their laps, but a couple of smart upgrades in key rotation roles should be enough. We’ll be speculating in the coming weeks about who they might target for those acquisitions.

need size, D and depth

Xiao Yao You

09-03-2020, 04:18 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/looking-forward-after-utahs-game-7-heartbreak/

What we just saw from Mitchell was incredible. So incredible that he has already secured a max extension from the Jazz, per reports (https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1301177445157154817?s=20).

You really think that wasn't happening anyway?

Count this writer among those who have long believed that Gobert has been the Jazz’s most valuable player, and he remains special in his ability to impact games on the defensive end. But in this series the mantle shifted. Mitchell meteoric run was historic and, more importantly, unstoppable. Denver tried so many things to slow him down, and none of those tactics yielded any sustained success. That makes Mitchell pretty close to an unschemable scorer with the ball in his hands, and that is the hardest type of commodity to obtain in the modern NBA. Yes, he’ll still need help, and teaming with a top-15 impact guy will only make his job easier. But Mitchell has moved into a different stratosphere.

still not convinced he's not sitting at home with Devin Booker without Gobert. We already know Gobert alone makes a team competitive

He still has things he need to clean up. His handle is lose on some of his pet dribble moves — such as when he pushes the ball through a trap or on that pirhouette move that was poked away in Game 7. But as several tweeps pointed out on Tuesday night, there is no reason to believe he won’t use these next few months to hone his craft. He came back after his first offseason with improved defense. After his second offseason, he was a much-improved pull-up shooter. And he returned from this spring’s lengthy stoppage with better passing and pick-and-roll decision making.

defense? :lol

Mitchell’s arrival as a bona fide megastar is enough on its own to justify optimism about Utah eventually finding a way to break through the crowded Western Conference into true contention.

mega star not getting out of first round despite playing with one of the best layers in the league and a supposedly great coach

The Croatian forward authored some of Utah’s most exciting moments in the regular season, and he provided a consistent second scorer while Conley was in and out of the lineup. As Conley ages — he’ll be 33 next month — Bogdanovic may be more important to Utah’s long term. As for right now, Utah is fortunately to have two borderline stars flanking their two superstars. That is a 4-man core that would make a lot of teams extremely jealous, especially if Don sustains his recent leap, Conley comes back more healthy and consistent, and the two Europeans keep doing what they’ve been doing.

The same 4 who lacked size and D all year long. No one is jealous

When the season started, Ingles was supposed to be the pick-and-roll facilitator in the second unit. But he struggled, in large part because Utah would quickly discover they didn’t really have a logical P&R partner for him. Then Conley got hurt and his role changed again. Then they acquired Jordan Clarkson and his role changed again. Then they reorganized the reserve unit and once again they needed different things from Joe. Then Conley came back and his role changed, and finally Bogdanovic’s absence from the bubble dictated yet another adjustment for Joe. Wow.

Bradley and Gobert are good in the ick and roll

O’Neale is a bit more of a specialist than Ingles, but otherwise the two have a similar macro identity: both are consummate glue guys, the type of contributor I’ve always referred to as “role player plus.” They’re better than a generic bench player, and indeed both guys would play starter minutes on the average NBA team. They’re not quite stars, but you still need them to play well to have a chance to beat really good teams.

they play starter minutes on this team as does Clarkson. That's the problem

Last year’s version of the Jazz was undoubtedly deeper, but had less firepower at the top of the roster. Utah’s brass knowingly made the tradeoff to acquire Conley and Bogey even at the expense of the back of their rotation, but they thought they could steady thing with the value signings of Jeff Green and Ed Davis. Those signings, to put it mildly, didn’t work out. Dante Exum didn’t grow like they expected either, and Emmanuel Mudiay is not really a point guard (https://twitter.com/danclayt0n/status/1223094872577585152?s=20). So they had to reconstruct the back half of the rotation on the fly

Davis didn't make sense when they needed a 4. Expecting anything from Exum! Mudiay was good. I'd rather have him than Clarkson. Ridiculous to have 6 rookies on a team that is supposed to be playing for a title. No excuses

Xiao Yao You

09-03-2020, 04:32 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/7/26/21272604/can-the-utah-jazz-keep-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-supermax-nba-free-agency-coronavirus-nba

“My expectation going forward is that the Millers will fully fund any request that we have regarding player personnel,” Jazz executive vice president of basketball operations Dennis Lindsey said.

:roll:

The Jazz’s first order of business this offseason will likely be to get rid of Davis’ contract via trade. In doing so, they’ll want to make it so that whatever they bring back in salary is on a non-guaranteed contract that they can waive so it doesn’t count against the cap and they can open up that $5 million that Davis is currently occupying. The Jazz will probably let Mudiay walk if he wants anything more than a minimum contract, and they’ll deal with Brantley and Wright-Foreman in pretty quick fashion by either waiving or signing them to new two-way deals.

good luck getting rid of Davis and it not costing you! Got to bring Brantley back. Rather have Wright Forman and Mudiay than Clarkson

With his contract gone and Clarkson’s cap hold the only one left to worry about, the Jazz agree to a three-year $34 million deal with Clarkson. Since the Jazz have his Bird rights they can stagger each year so that next year’s salary is roughly $10.8 million with 8% increases the next two seasons.

let's hope they are smarter than I think they are and he's gone

After next season it’s very likely the Jazz won’t be able to build a contending team without paying some luxury tax so, even if the Jazz have to splurge a little extra to keep Clarkson around while staying under the apron, they should do it. Utilizing the more valuable exceptions in order to bring in some role players is not something the Jazz will be able to do if they become a luxury tax paying team, so getting them on the books now is a good idea.

wouldn't count on them paying it or contending. Had my hopes up this year and see where that got me again

The starting unit is not the issue with the Jazz. Once Bogdanovic returns from injury and the Jazz have a full season to really go for it, with Conley having more time to gel with everyone, it’s the bench that needs to be beefed up. Keeping Clarkson is the first step there, and getting some more athletic bodies and firepower could do the trick to keep the Jazz in the upper echelon of the Western Conference.

their D sucked and they don't have a starting 4 and are too small

Xiao Yao You

09-03-2020, 04:49 AM

Isaac: It’s hard to ignore the last three games but those first four were fantastic. Mitchell showed his ceiling is higher than we imagined, which has me optimistic. Conley was great throughout his time in the series. But I was disappointed in O’Neale and Joe Ingles, two role players who didn’t produce at the levels I usually expect. The Jazz are about where I thought they were, able to compete in the playoffs but not able to go far.

role players playing huge minutes is the problem. 6 rookies no PF no size little D

Mark: Other than health luck, the Jazz bench desperately needs defensive chops. Acquiring Clarkson was a move to simply boost the offense of a bricktastic bench, but the defense still made the Jazz bench a sore, sore weakness. Don’t forget, the Jazz bench defense was a relative strength when Utah had the luxury of keeping defensive stalwart Derrick Favors on the floor as a rim protector. Contending teams typically are able to have star power on the floor at all times, and at the very least the Jazz should make it more difficult to score for those stars than its current iteration.

their starters D sucked as well

Isaac: It would be great if the Jazz could catapult their way into contention the same way the LA teams did, by getting the best players in the league to sign with them in free agency and force trades there. Since neither of those is likely to happen, the Jazz’s most pressing need is the same type of player every team is trying to find: multi-talented wings who can defend multiple positions and are a threat on offense. Luckily, they have the same MLE as many other teams entering free agency and the NBA in its infinite wisdom gave the Jazz the losing tiebreakers for the playoffs and the losing tiebreakers for the upcoming draft. (Sorry, not feeling great about the team right now.)

don't expect immediate help from the draft. The 6 rookies maybe

Trevor: The answer should be obvious that the Jazz’s number one need is length and size, without sacrificing shooting if possible. If they do need to sacrifice shooting, they’ll need to be an elite defensive team once again. The power forward position is screaming for a change for this reason. It’s just really tough to not get killed on the boards with a shooting guard sized player at the power forward position, and it hurts defensively even if that guy is your defensive specialist. The Jazz need to do everything in their power to get Derrick Favors back on the team. It would help Ingles a ton, and that’s basically a guarantee as we have already seen plenty of film on his chemistry with Favors. We also have a good idea that the Jazz can be an elite defensive team with Gobert and Favors sharing the floor. If you couple that with the superstar offensive power of Mitchell, I’d like to see what would happen.

God no on Favors. They finally fixed the offense. Why screw it up again?

Clark: The Jazz need one to two more guys that can play two way ball in the playoffs. One of them should be a wing/guard defender. One of them is Bogdanovic.

Bojan is a two way guy?

Jake: Assuming the Jazz keep Conley and Clarkson, they need to shore up their bench with a solid backup center and an athletic wing that can guard a variety of positions. I don’t think the G League players are there yet. That was pretty apparent over the last few weeks. And like many Jazz fans, I can’t stop thinking about bringing Favors back. He would be a perfect fit.

Definitely think some of the rookies can help. They actually defend! Bradley is fine.

Xiao Yao You

09-03-2020, 04:49 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/staff-scrimmage-bubble-burst-in-game-7-where-the-jazz-go-from-here/

Kincade Upstill (https://twitter.com/Kincade12): This post season will be remembered as the time Mitchell exploded. He went from being a border-line All-Star, to the verge of superstardom. His two, fifty point performances in a playoff series were so impressive that only two other players have ever accomplished it, Michael Jordan and Allen Iverson. Game two of the series might have been one of his best performances ever, as he completely controlled every aspect of the entire game. The Disney Bubble will hold a special place in Jazz fans hearts, despite the round one loss, as being the time Mitchell became their next elite franchise player.

they lost

2. Only 12 teams have lost a series after being up 3-1. What one factor most changed the trajectory of the series in Denver’s favor?

they went big. Made adjustments. Snyder didn't

Isaac: Murray going super nova to a degree I doubt he will ever replicate. That is what won Denver games 5 and 6 and once it went to game 7 it was anybody’s series. I also think that the officiating got in Royce O’Neale’s head in game 5 – the Jazz had a solid lead and let up, and Royce was over aggressive to a fault, especially on screens.

Murray will never replicate and Mitchell is superstardom

Clark: There were so many issues that led to the comeback, but I’d say the Jazz’s mental immaturity in not closing out the Nuggets in game 5 was the biggest factor. That’s something you learn and the Jazz aren’t a veteran playoff team yet. They are coming though.

6 rookies no PF and no size and little D

Mark: I think the Jazz offense would have been so unstoppable that they would have either handled Game 1’s business with relative ease — even without Mike Conley — or they would have done enough in Games 5-7 to get one more win. The blowouts would have been arguably worse. Bogdanovic would replace virtually all Georges Niang minutes, relegate Clarkson to a tertiary offensive role, and certainly would have been a more capable than Juwan Morgan at filling in the middle once the Jazz went away from Tony Bradley. Even if just for that fateful last possession — where O’Neale was left completely unguarded in the corner, allowing Jerami Grant to make Mitchell hesitate and turn it over — Bogey in the corner would cause Grant to instead be glued to him to give Mitchell a more decisive opportunity. Alas.

Bojan at the 5 :roll:

Trevor: Much different. While most people see Bogdanovic as just a lethal three point shooting threat, he is also basically the Utah Jazz’s only post up threat in mismatches. Had Bogdanovic played, the Jazz would have likely targeted Jamal Murray and forced him to battle Bogdanovic in the post quite a bit. That would take a heavy toll on his body and I don’t think he would have put up superstar numbers if he had to play that type of defense. In addition, Mitchell would have been able to take a lot more plays off and save his energy for the stretch runs of games. There is also something to be said about replacing the minutes of end-of-rotation players with a player of Bogdanovic’s caliber.

Niang is a better post up player. Jazz don't post up

Kincade: Bogdanovic would have completely changed the series, giving the Jazz another offensive weapon to help out score the Nuggets. The Nuggets were without two of their better defensive players in Barton and Harris (until game six) and couldn’t stop the Jazz. Imagine how unguardable Jazz offense would have been with Bogdanovic in the mix. The Jazz, without Bogdanovic, were a pretty small team, starting O’Neale as the power forward and he is only 6-foot-4. Even though he isn’t known for his defense, a little more size and length would only have helped the Jazz defense out.

needed more D not less and Bojan gives them less

Xiao Yao You

09-03-2020, 04:54 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/9/1/21409090/2020-utah-jazz-donovan-mitchell-still-carrying-utah-jazz-one-year-later

Despite an active offseason, Donovan Mitchell still shoulders the burden of Utah’s offense.

:facepalm

Juwan Morgan. That Fesenko-like surprise in Games 1 and 2 allowed Utah to put forward a bruising defensive identity. When he’s on the floor, Utah’s defensive rating drops to below 90Utah’s success right now rests on Donovan Mitchell’s shoulders. Just his. The offensive help? A slight upgrade over what they had before and as dependable as before. One year later, Donovan Mitchell still has to carry Utah on his own in the playoffs. Win or lose tonight, Utah can’t put Donovan in this situation for the fourth time in four seasons. He can almost do it by himself, but he shouldn’t have to.

Morgan, Brantley, Tucker and Oni all play D. Where were they?

points per 100 possessions. Moving Ingles to the bench and Morgan to the starting lineup could allow Utah the first minutes of the game to disrupt Denver’s flow and prevent them from getting in rhythm. But that still may not be enough to slow down Jamal Murray (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/276646/jamal-murray)’s next level scoring.

and yet it was Rudy that once again carried them

Xiao Yao You

09-04-2020, 02:17 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/3/21420002/utah-jazz-news-jordan-clarkson-contract-nba

Despite the uncertainty of next season’s salary cap, start date and a lack of big money to be spent by the league no matter how everything pans out, Clarkson’s time with the Jazz will earn him multiple suitors this offseason.

hope to see you elsewhere!

Xiao Yao You

09-05-2020, 04:57 AM

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2020/09/04/utah-jazz-positive-takeaways-donovan-mitchell/2/

Rumors have begun to circulate (https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/donovan-mitchell-jazz-expected-to-finalize-a-rookie-max-extension-when-free-agency-opens-per-report/) that Donovan Mitchell and the Jazz plan to agree on a max extension come free agency in mid-October. Any Jazz fan has to be ecstatic that they’ll be seeing Mitchell as the face and leader of the franchise for the indefinite future.

still Rudy's team. Lottery without him

Without Bojan, Mitchell didn’t get a ton of help on the scoring end, with only defensive-minded Rudy Gobert (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/g/goberru01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-), Mike Conley, Joe Ingles, and sixth man Jordan Clarkson being the key contributing scorers alongside him. Although some of the numbers put up by the supporting cast weren’t terrible, Bojan’s scoring ability exceeds anyone else on the team behind Mitchell and was definitely missed badly during the restart.

Conley was arguably better 2nd option

Xiao Yao You

09-05-2020, 10:31 AM

Tony Jones: Sources tell me that if Derrick Favors came back to the Jazz, he knows he wouldn’t be a starter (https://podbay.fm/p/game-notes-a-show-about-the-utah-jazz).
– via podbay.fm (https://podbay.fm/p/game-notes-a-show-about-the-utah-jazz)

That's good anyways long as it's strictly at the 5 though I guess Bradley could camp in the corner while Favors dives to the rim. They have a good cheap option in Bradley anyway. Get a vet to be the 3rd center

Xiao Yao You

09-06-2020, 06:19 AM

The bi-annual exception was slated to be $3.8 million, it too will slip as a result of the cap decrease. But it allows the Jazz to add a fringe rotation player to the roster. Boban Marjanovic, Stanley Johnson, and Markieff Morris were among the players added using the bi-annual exception last season around the NBA.

wing/guard

Nigel Williams-Goss, Miye Oni, Juwan Morgan, Georges Niang, and Rayjon Tucker are all under contract for next season, but all are non-guaranteed. The Jazz could waive any of them this offseason to use their roster spots.

you sure none of them are partial?

That extension has the plus of locking in the Jazz’s franchise player for the foreseeable future, but it does come with a downside: tying up cap room that would otherwise be open in the offseason of 2021. Because Mitchell’s cap hold is just $15.9 million, the Jazz might be giving up $12 million or so in cap space that summer. They could use that to improve the team.

need to wait!

Rudy Gobert is also eligible for an extension, his at the supermax level of approximately 5-years, $221 million. But at this point, both parties know that Gobert is worth somewhat less than the supermax — he isn’t going to get that huge number. They could still work out an extension that reflects a lesser but still very real value to the team, at some large percentage of the cap but short of the supermax level. If they don’t work out an extension at some point, Gobert will be an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2021, able to go wherever he pleases.

goodbye playoffs!

Mike Conley also has a choice to make, but it’s a relatively easy one: whether to make $34.5 million in 2020-21 or to become a free agent. Conley’s next contract would be far smaller than that, so he should opt in. Conley can’t be traded until he opts in to next year.

and he Bojan and Ed need to be shopped as well as the non/partial guarantees. Sign and trade of Clarkson if it makes sense. Starting PF/vet 3rd center/vet backup or 3rd pf depending on if Mudiay is back/vet wing or forward. Don't expect much to change though. Sign Clarkson, 1st round pick, and maybe the exceptions.

Xiao Yao You

09-06-2020, 06:20 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/05/utah-jazz-are-headed-big/

Most mock drafts are still a ways away, but The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie and ESPN’s Jonathan Givony both have the Jazz taking Josh Green, a wing from Arizona, with the No. 23 pick as things stand.

need to look center than pg

The biggest is Jordan Clarkson, who played a huge role off the bench after being acquired in a Christmas Eve deal with the Cavaliers. Now, though, he’s an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. The Jazz have his Bird rights, which means they can offer any amount in order to keep him. But Clarkson also has the right to go anywhere he chooses, and may choose to either stay in Utah or leave. Even if he leaves, the Jazz would have no additional cap room to sign other free agents, so signing Clarkson is going to be a top priority for Utah if he’s willing.

let him go!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Backup point guard Emmanuel Mudiay is also a free agent, but because he signed just a one-year deal with the team, they don’t have Bird rights for him. Instead, the Jazz can only sign him to 120% of last year’s minimum contract. Will the Jazz want to do that for the mercurial point guard? Will Mudiay get other offers elsewhere greater than that? We’ll see.

rather have him than Clarkson

Two-way players Jarrell Brantley and Justin Wright-Foreman are also free agents, though both are restricted. That means that the Jazz can match offers for both from other teams if they were to come in. Wright-Foreman hasn’t shown much, and was even sent home for the playoffs so that the Jazz could add another coach. Brantley, though, has a lot of potential thanks to his size, length and skillful versatility, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him come to terms with the Jazz on a deal that makes him a full roster player this season.

Wright Forman was all GLeague the first part of the year. He showed he can score. Rather have him than Clarkson as well

Brantley should be in the mix for the rotation

Beyond that, the Jazz have two mechanisms to add players to the roster via free agency: the mid-level exception and the bi-annual exception. The mid-level exception was supposed to start at $9.7 million, though the cap havoc that the pandemic created means it’ll end up being lower. Still, it represents a valuable chunk of change that the Jazz can use to add a rotation player to the roster. It will be interesting to see what Dennis Lindsey and company consider to be the most pressing need with that MLE: do they go with a big man to back up Rudy Gobert? Do they add a defensive wing player? A guard? Or just the best player that they can sign with that money?

starting PF. Did no one else watch this team play this year with their 6'4" PF?

Xiao Yao You

09-07-2020, 12:29 PM

the only serious strike against q is his connection to coach k
so if the jazz fire him, fire him for that

Posted by letter to the Corinthians (https://www.sbnation.com/users/letter%20to%20the%20Corinthians) on Sep 7, 2020 | 8:52 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531286182)

That has certainly been an issue with both Hood and Allen.

When somebody suggests dumping a player, they usually also suggest a player they’d like to see instead and how to go about getting them, not to mention how they think it would improve things.
I think the same level of detail should go into suggesting a coaching change.

Posted by Benjamin A. Sorensen (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Benjamin%20A.%20Sorensen) on Sep 7, 2020 | 9:08 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531286465)

Why? Who thought Stevens would be a great coach? College coaches have mostly failed. Lots of people can coach. Quin has been hyped a lot but without Rudy the franchise has sucked including Lindsey as well

Also, the Jazz just didn't have a wing defender who could slow down Murray--other than O'Neale (who was pretty ineffective overall) or Mitchell (whose energy was needed on offense).

Perhaps Oni could have played that role, but there was probably a reason Quin didn’t have enough confidence to play Oni in a playoff game. It was interesting to me that Donovan was the player who was finally able to slow down Murray on the defensive end, but I think that affected his offensive ability by the end of the 4th quarter when he seemed absolutely gassed.
I think the Jazz need at least one more wing defender on this team. Perhaps the Jazz can develop that player from within—in Oni. However, just like good stretch-4 PFs, good wing defenders are very difficult to find, and generally must either be obtained through the draft, or signed in free agency for a lot of money (but even that is difficult, whereas since they are in high demand, they get to pick and choose their team).

Posted by Fesenko for President (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Fesenko%20for%20President) on Sep 7, 2020 | 9:45 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531287176)

we don't know that that. Tucker, Oni and Brantley have all shown the ability to defend

The biggest thing the article did not say was where the team salary is in relation to the Luxury Tax.
If the numbers don’t change too much it is already BAD. Right now it’s (LT) at $139,000,000.
IF the Jazz use the MLE and B-AE, bring back the same core that are committed and have
the max 15 contracts the total 2020-21 Jazz Payroll will be $143,000,000!!!! That is over the Luxury Tax
This is before any DM or RG extensions. I have a hard time thinking the Jazz FO will want to pay the Luxury tax for the "This" team that is on the books. Something will be done to get the salaries down. What improvements can be done without major changes???
The other topic to consider is how the Western Conference will be stacked and 10-14 teams fighting for 8 spots.

Posted by AdMan59 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/AdMan59) on Sep 6, 2020 | 9:39 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531280595)

yep. Shop Bojan, Conley and Davis. Let Clarkson go. Shop the non guarantee/partial guarantees Starting pf. Vet backup center. Vet pg either behind Mudiay and Mitchell or behind Mitchell. Maybe one more end of the bench vet. Draft a center, then pg if they get another pick

Well when you don’t like and support nba athletes you settle for Joe ingles and Niang and prospects from Yale. So horrible how Utahs discrimination holds it back from real contention every year.
Then Donovan Mitchell. We sign Conley,Foreman/Clarkson/Nigel Gross/Mudiay/Rajon Tucker/
All smaller and similar to him for what?
I hate watching my Jazz team live this way.

Posted by muLLet astronaut gaNg khef thugn 55 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/muLLet%20astronaut%20gaNg%20khef%20thugn%2055) on Sep 7, 2020 | 9:56 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531287378)

I like all those guys. The question is why a team that says they are contending went into the season without a starting 4. Spent their money on a backup 5 instead. Carried 6 rookies that didn't get a chance to play instead of more vets?

Xiao Yao You

09-07-2020, 12:31 PM

At what point should we have gotten rid of Sloan for his over-reliance on Stockton and Malone that kept on getting them booted out of the playoffs for fifteen years?
I’ll honestly take that over a coaching carousel like we see in some other franchises.
A more substantial question would be:
If they got rid of Quin, who could they get that would unquestionably do a better job?

Posted by Benjamin A. Sorensen (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Benjamin%20A.%20Sorensen) on Sep 6, 2020 | 6:45 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531275903)

Sloan should have been gone the first time he went from 1st to 3rd if not sooner. I think their Gleague coach was better. Maybe Jensen? Lots of people out there that can coach defense. I certainly don't think he's some defensive genius. Rudy made him look like one at times

But I might be in the minority in saying that we should have gotten rid of Sloan earlier than we did. He was very stubborn and old school and still operating on the assumption that you should basically ignore the 3 ball on both ends of the floor. Obviously the 3 ball in 2005-2011 wasn’t what it is now but it was still an important – and growing – part of the game then.
(Also, I love Jerry. So many good memories. Please don’t misinterpret this comment as Jerry hate.)

Posted by J-Note (https://www.sbnation.com/users/J-Note) on Sep 6, 2020 | 7:57 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531277830)

one of Jerry's problems sure. Let the other team dictate things. Never kept up with the times. His way or the highway. Had guys that could have helped that he wouldn't let play. Liked to foul!. His best coaching job was when he got away from the flex and built around the players he had.

A lot of the problem with Sloan's teams was that Larry Miller didn't have the resources to put the right players around Stockton and Malone.

Out of financial necessity, the Jazz put together teams on the cheap for most of the careers of Stockton and Malone. Those teams were a lot like this year’s team for the Jazz—2 superstars/all stars, another 4-5 competent starters and/or rotation players, and then a bunch of G-League players. I remember Sloan talking about how the Jazz needed to play with the "next man up" mentality, but that was impossible with a bunch of "stiffs" in the starting lineup and on the bench. It was only when the Jazz got Hornacek and Antoine "Big Dawg" Carr, along with 3 or 4 other competent players that the team was able to get to the finals.

Posted by Fesenko for President (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Fesenko%20for%20President) on Sep 7, 2020 | 9:34 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531286975)

Miller had the resources. Didn't use them. Carr should have been gone after season 2. Was great for 1 year. Another problem they had was sticking with guys past their usefullness

Who could they get that’s indisputably better? Who would we choose that’s a definite upgrade on Quin Snyder?

Posted by Benjamin A. Sorensen (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Benjamin%20A.%20Sorensen) on Sep 6, 2020 | 9:55 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531280849)

anyone? What makes him so great? Without Gobert they have sucked! The hated Corbin did more with less

Also – the minutes Niang was getting? C’mon…

Posted by J-Note (https://www.sbnation.com/users/J-Note) on Sep 7, 2020 | 4:15 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531283285)

putting Niang back at the 3 especially. I love George too. He's had no problem playing rookies when they weren't ready before why did he not give those guys a look when defensively they might have made a difference.

Xiao Yao You

09-07-2020, 12:31 PM

The series changed after Game 3 when Mike Malone (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/98772/michael-malone) moved Torrey Craig (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/291442/torrey-craig) and Michael Porter Jr. (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/299911/michael-porter-jr) to the bench and started Jerami Grant (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246141/jerami-grant) and Monte Morris (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/295647/monte-morris). With those adjustments, Malone (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/98772/michael-malone) improved on one of their weaknesses and was able to attack the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) with a bigger focus on the Jamal Murray (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/295663/jamal-murray)/Nikola Jokic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/295635/nikola-jokic) pick and roll.

and they got bigger which was a Jazz weakness all year. Need a starting PF! Need a bigger guard next to Mitchell! Need more D. Need more depth! Need a new coach!

Denver (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/denver-nuggets) used that pick and roll incessantly till it got them the come from behind series victory. Not only did Quin Snyder (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/111859/quin-snyder) resist any real changes to the lineup, he also should have played his starters for longer minutes. Outside of Rudy Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert), Snyder (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/111859/quin-snyder) played all the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) starters below 40 minutes until Game 7. For context, in the Raptors (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/toronto-raptors) Game 4 win over the Celtics (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/boston-celtics), Nick Nurse (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/199151/nick-nurse) had Kyle Lowry (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296659/kyle-lowry) play 43 minutes, Fred VanVleet (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/319732/fred-vanvleet) play 44 and Pascal Siakam (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/276639/pascal-siakam) play 45.

He should have looked to his young guys more. They add size and D

It’s very unlikely Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) makes any sort of change at coach, but this rigid refusal to adapt and game to game has got to change. I mean, maybe there will be a point where the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) could even make substitutions for a single possessions. One can dream.

yeah Jerry even made changes even if he let the other team dictate those changes

I have said that we should give him whatever necessary to keep him, and I stand by that.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Sep 6, 2020 | 7:43 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531277489)

That's tough. Supermax is a lot but it's hard to imagine the Jazz being any good without him or getting enough in trade for him

In reality I still hope for a Gobert trade, get some new offensive blood into it.
Get a team that has some cap space and a good #4, the pickup DFaves as the Starting Center on the MLE.
And strengthen the 6-10 rotation spots. Royce and Joe are not starters that the Jazz can contend for better things with.

Posted by AdMan59 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/AdMan59) on Sep 6, 2020 | 9:59 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft#531280921)

They don't need more offense and Rudy is one of the best offensive players in the league! Royce and Joe can start or come off the bench. They shouldn't play as big of a role as they are though

Xiao Yao You

09-07-2020, 12:32 PM

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/9/6/21424566/nba-whats-next-for-the-utah-jazz-in-the-2020-offseason-free-agency-draft

It may very well have been scheming from the Nuggets (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/denver-nuggets), along with some insane three point shooting from Jokic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246131/nikola-jokic), that lessened Gobert’s (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) impact, but it was hard not to see an up and down effort from Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert). For multiple games Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) looked invisible and then in Game 7 he dominated. If he had not played like he did in that Game 7, the narrative would have been that Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) had checked out. That type of up and down production makes things tricky for the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz).

scheming of the Jazz as well. They were giving Jokic room so they didn't get the 2 man thing going with Murray. Needed a PF. I liked when they had Morgan spend some possession on him and Gobert was able to roam more and protect the weak side

Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) faces an important offseason decision with Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert). Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) is eligible for a supermax extension after next season which Utah is not likely to offer. If it’s supermax or bust for Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert), then we could see some sort of trade.

can't imagine that is the case. They can pay him more than other teams rather it's the full super max or not. Good luck without him

Against elite defenders, Clarkson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246165/jordan-clarkson) struggled at times to positively impact games, especially Game 6 and 7. How much of that was his fault is the question.

I like him fine when he's spotting up and plays within the offense. Unfortunately that is rare and mostly he thinks he is the only option n the floor no matter who else is out there. See ya!

Tony Bradley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298014/tony-bradley) was not ready for the playoffs this season, and may never be. On top of that, Utah’s (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) offseason signing of Ed Davis (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296641/ed-davis) was a massive disappointment. It’s a hole Utah has to fill. Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) could go after Derrick Favors (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297094/derrick-favors) this offseason to become the full time second-unit center. That may be the move that fixes the entire bench. Signing Favors (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297094/derrick-favors) would allow the second offense to center around the Joe Ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297999/joe-ingles)/Derrick Favors (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297094/derrick-favors) pick and roll that was so deadly the year before. Favors (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297094/derrick-favors) would also be a huge defensive upgrade.

I think Bradley held his own against Plumlee. He is the youngest guy on the team and improving. He can run the pick and roll. Was the best offensive rebounder in the league. Can shoot. Need a vet center to play behind him for insurance. It's what they needed this year not Davis

Utah’s offense was not the problem against the Denver Nuggets. It was Utah’s defense that never found a way to consistently stop the Nuggets outside of two blowout victories.

exactly. Bojan fixes that?

Xiao Yao You

09-08-2020, 02:57 AM

Sources tell The Athletic the front office will likely bring the entirety of the core back for a second run next season. (https://theathletic.com/2043836/2020/09/04/this-wont-happen-again-painful-defeat-doesnt-shake-jazz-cores-confidence/) Bogdanovic, Ingles and O’Neale are signed to longterm deals. Conley is very very likely to opt into the final season of his contract. Mitchell and the Jazz are likely to come to a max contract extension, once free agency hits.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2043836/2020/09/04/this-wont-happen-again-painful-defeat-doesnt-shake-jazz-cores-confidence/)

as expected since this is the Jazz unfortunately.

Xiao Yao You

09-09-2020, 04:45 AM

Derrick Favors registered an 8-year low in scoring average in his only full pro season away from the Jazz. Reports are that he missed his teammates and role with the Jazz, who had to move him last summer to accommodate Bogdanovic’s signing. He’s interested in reprising his role as one of the league’s very best backup centers, and the Jazz could certainly use someone with his skill set. His paint protection numbers are among the league’s best — he has even edged ahead of Gobert some seasons — and he’s also an excellent rim finisher in P&R situations and from the “dunker.” In particular, he had excellent P&R chemistry with Ingles, a tandem that kept the bench unit’s offense afloat.

no!

If a Favors reunion doesn’t pan out, Mason Plumlee, Nerlens Noel and Willie Caulie-Stein will all be free agents. All three have excellent D-PIPM numbers and have already been playing a similar role of reserve bigs on playoff teams. Any of them would be a massive upgrade for Utah as backup bigs, and would probably come in a similar price range or cheaper. Christian Wood is another free agent big who can play both ends, although he might have expectations for a bigger role after being a part-time starter for Detroit last season.

Wood could be their starting 4 which should be their main priority

Jacob (https://saltcityhoops.com/) says:
September 8, 2020 at 3:18 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/#comment-99471)
I thought Tony played well most of the time – he is inexperienced and certainly made mistakes but his young legs seemed to get a lot of touches for the offense in the Denver series by tipping out rebounds. Getting Favors for 14 minutes at Center and 8 as a lane clogger is too much for the exception. I propose a trade between the 76ers and the Jazz should be the focus. Mike Conly for Tobias Harris – Conley and Harris match up well for salaries – the 76ers have a need for a better 1 and maybe looking to get out from under the Tobias experiment before having to be stuck for the next 4 years. Mitchell continues to play well with the ball in hand and defends the size of a 1 Better than most 2’s. Harris gives a better rebounder and proficient defender at the 4 AND stretches the floor more than Favors.REPLY (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/?replytocom=99471#respond)

I've thought about that trade too. Makes a lot of sense. I'd also look to trade Bojan. Need a starting 4! A capable vet behind Bradley as should have been the case this year. O'Neale and Ingles could start or come off the bench depending on who else you get. A vet 1 to back up Mitchell or behind Mudiay if they keep him which I wouldn't mind. Goss wouldn't be bad 3rd pg if they get a vet behind Mitchell. Oni, Tucker and Brantley in the mix on the wing and possibly Wright Forman who has 6th man type potential and also the backup 4 for Brantley/Morgan/Niang

KC Muir says:
September 8, 2020 at 3:43 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/#comment-99473)
Any chance we could package Connelly and some pics for Blake Griffen or Kevin Love

Like the idea of Griffin too offensively he's a great fit. Injuries worry me with him and maybe D. D has to improve!

Xiao Yao You

09-09-2020, 04:45 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/

With Mike Conley and Bojan Bogdanovic as secondary stars and a couple of starter-caliber role players in Joe Ingles and Royce O’Neale, Utah’s core is good enough to compete with anybody. In their series against the No. 3-seeded Nuggets, the Jazz dominated whenever their best five players were involved (Bogdanovic missed the series with an injured wrist), but struggled to keep up when they had to rely on bench help.

I don't think so. Need a starting 4. More size, D and depth

Ideally, the Jazz would find someone to back up Gobert who can still affect shots in the paint. And as they learned through the failed Ed Davis experiment, it needs to be someone who can still finish on rim dives, or else their bench offense will rely far too much on iso scorers going 1-on-5. Bonus points if it’s someone who can score a little outside the paint, because that means you could buy them a few minutes each game next to Gobert.

Bradley. A vet behind him for insurance. Not Davis

That’s not all they need. They also were light on defensive wings to guard dudes with bigger bodies. They had to cross-match with smaller guys guarding bigger bodies in the playoffs, and Denver consistently attacking mismatches was a big key to how they erased Utah’s 3-1 lead to win the series. Especially as O’Neale was tasked with guarding Nuggets point guard Jamal Murray, it left Utah somewhat exposed on the wings defensively.

If you have a real starting 4 O'Neale is covering the guy he is supposed to and Conley isn't guarding a PF

If the Jazz can get a F.A.V.O.R.S. and a Big Wing, they would have a pretty solid 9-man rotation:
C: Gobert (34), F.A.V.O.R.S. (14)
PF: Bogdanovic (32), O’Neale (8), F.A.V.O.R.S. (8)
SF: O’Neale (18), Big Wing (20), Ingles (10)
SG: Mitchell (34), Ingles (14)
PG: Conley (28), Clarkson (20)

Bojan and Ingles are even less of PF's than O'Neale. Need someone new there starting. Niang, Morgan and Brantley fighting to back him up. Clarkson at pg? :roll:

Even if chasing a F.A.V.O.R.S and a Big Wing makes it harder for Utah to retain Clarkson, they should be OK. Clarkson was a godsend in December and January when the Jazz desperately needed shot creation, but if everybody’s healthy next year, Clarkson would be a fourth ball-handling guard, and that’s a spot you can generally fill pretty cheaply with a net positive guy to soak up a few minutes. The Jazz would prefer to keep Clarkson, but if the math gets tough, there are alternatives out there.

better without Clarkson. Rather have Mudiay and Wright Forman cheap than him

This would give the Jazz a similar construct to what other contending teams have: starpower at the top, with a couple of complementary quasi-stars, but also the ability to go 8 or 9 deep with quality, rotation-caliber players Quin Snyder could trust in a playoff series. Guys like Georges Niang and Tony Bradley would still get opportunities here and there, but they’d return to the 10th/11th man type roles they’re probably better suited for on a contending team.

Bradley is 22! He got better all year. He is cheap. Great offensive rebounder. Can shoot the 3. Run pick and roll. You don't sit a young guy like him on the end of the bench. He should be with the Stars, rotation or another team. Love Niang but Morgan and Brantley might be better. Tucker and Oni should be in the mix on the wing as well as Brantley too. They all play D!

Xiao Yao You

09-09-2020, 04:57 PM

The Bucks would likely face competition in any pursuit of Paul. League sources say the Sixers front office has seriously debated the idea of chasing CP3. (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2020/9/9/21429212/giannis-antetokounmpo-milwaukee-bucks-free-agency) The Knicks, in desperate need of a player to lure prospective free agents, could also make a run at him after his former agent, Leon Rose, took over as team president. But there likely won’t be a lot of suitors for Paul. Not many teams need a point guard, nevermind an old one with an injury history making $41.4 million in 2020-21 with a player option to make $44.2 million in 2021-22. Paul proved this season he’s still a damn good player, but that doesn’t mean many teams want him.
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2020/9/9/21429212/giannis-antetokounmpo-milwaukee-bucks-free-agency)

Would one of them want Conley instead?

Xiao Yao You

09-09-2020, 05:24 PM

It’s more likely that the Bucks will explore the trade market. But Milwaukee lacks trade assets—it has first-round picks only in 2020 (no. 24, via Indiana), 2024, and 2026, and the only promising young player on the team younger than 30 (besides Giannis, 25, and Khris Middleton, 29) is Donte DiVincenzo, who projects as a likely role player. League sources also expect a quiet trade market. (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2020/9/9/21429212/giannis-antetokounmpo-milwaukee-bucks-free-agency) Could Mike Conley be acquired from the Jazz? Or Jrue Holiday from the Pelicans? Maybe in NBA 2K, but not for what the Bucks can offer.
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2020/9/9/21429212/giannis-antetokounmpo-milwaukee-bucks-free-agency)

The trade that was shown earlier makes some sense. Maybe get a 3rd team involved for Bledsoe?

Let’s bring in Captain Obvious to discuss one possibility: Paul to the Bucks. A package from Milwaukee might be the Thunder’s best case with the Point God, despite his awesome 2019-20 season, simply because he’s making such a huge number (over $41 million next year) at an advanced age. Even with Paul’s giant salary and the Bucks’ luxury tax concerns (if they remain concerns after what last year’s penny-pinching brought them), a deal is possible if the Bucks guarantee Ersan Ilyasova’s contract. (https://*********.com/2020/09/09/nba-rumors-giannis-antetokounmpo-mike-budenholzer-bucks-future/) Eric Bledsoe, Ilyasova, Robin Lopez (presuming he opts in), D.J. Wilson and the Bucks pick at 24 in the first round would form the salary match, with the fine print being haggling over additional assets and/or Donte DiVincenzo.
– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/2020/09/09/nba-rumors-giannis-antetokounmpo-mike-budenholzer-bucks-future/)

Ilasova could start and Lopez(I'd guess he'd opt out and want to play though?) could play behind Bradley. If you get DiVencenzo it would look real good

Trade machine doesn't work but if you include Hill instead of Bledsoe and Giannis's brother it's over 28 million to Conley's 32 . Illasoya starts. Hill starter at 2 or backup at 1 and 2. Donte in the mix at the 2. I'd think O'Neale takes one spot and maybe Oni or Brantley with Ingles off the bench might make sense. Lopez as backup or 3rd center. Wilson could fight Niang/Brantley/Morgan for the backup minutes at the 4. Looks like Matthews, Korver, Brown and Connaughton could opt in and be part of it to. Bucks keep Bledsoe to possibly trade elsewhere in this scenario. two firsts could maybe move up? Jazz would have a lot of players and look to do more hopefully with Bojan and Ed Davis and also a bunch of partial/non guaranteed contracts and no more need for Clarakson not like there should be anyway.

Xiao Yao You

09-10-2020, 02:21 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/09/dennis-lindsey-justin/

“The only thing that I would emphasize is that going from good to great is really hard. And there’s a lot of other teams that are trying to do the same thing,” said general manager Justin Zanik. “We just can commit to our fans and to our groups that support us that we will stop at nothing to try and reach that goal.”

It's really tough when you try to do it without a PF and 6 rookies who you won't play

A year ago, the Jazz were pretty thoroughly dismantled by the Rockets, to the point that it was apparent that Utah’s elite-defense/manufactured-offense organizational approach had run its course and was due for an overhaul.

whoever thought Ricky and Favors spotting up in the corner was a good idea to begin with shouldn't have a job

Of course, not having Conley for the first two games of the Nuggets series (as he attended to the birth of his child (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/08/16/utah-jazz-point-guard/)) and not having Bogdanovic for any of those seven games (as he recovered from season-ending wrist surgery (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/05/18/utah-jazzs-bojan/)) proved an impediment to such progress. Still, while Lindsey noted that, in particular, Bogey’s absence deprived the Jazz of “another person to help us close those close games,” he was not about to play the woe-is-me card.

Problem was defense, size, depth and coaching. Other than depth not sure how Bojan helps?

“Those aren’t excuses why we lost the series. We had more than enough to compete with,” Lindsey added.

probably too bad your handpicked coach refused to use them. Maybe if they'd went to Duke!

While All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell took a transcendent leap into superstardom (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/01/donovan-mitchell-jamal/) during the series, and while big man Rudy Gobert had his moments, and while Bogdanovic was every bit the secondary offensive option the front office hoped for (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/2019/11/30/bojan-bogdanovic-has-been/), and while Conley eventually found his way into being a solid contributor, the depth that the organization envisioned when it brought in Ed Davis, Jeff Green, and Emmanuel Mudiay last summer never really materialized — to the point that coach Quin Snyder was effectively playing a seven-man rotation by the end of the Denver series.

Don't forget the 6 rookies! They needed a starting 4 not Ed Davis. Green could have been alright in a minor role as Mudiay was when he got the chance. Depth? :roll:

“We lost some defensive integrity, some activity, some deflections,” Lindsey said. “… So it’s an adjustment, and we’ll see. But anybody who has defensive integrity at their position, can be an active, athletic defender will be someone that would be of interest to us, especially if they don’t compromise the spacing.”

exactly! Bojan, Conley and Clarkson might not fit that though

Given Conley’s likely decision to opt in to the final year of his contract, plus sizable extensions due Mitchell and Gobert, not to mention the cost of potentially retaining midseason acquisition and bench sparkplug Jordan Clarkson (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/2019/12/24/jazz-trade-dante-exum-two/), the Jazz are probably not in position to make the same kind of big-swing, all-in moves they made a year ago.

all in with 6 rookies and no PF!

Which means that, unless they do something unexpected and drastic, they’ll have the NBA Draft, the midlevel exception, the bi-annual exception, veteran minimum deals and internal improvement as the primary options to try and put together a more passable supporting cast for 2021.

have the partial/non guaranteed contracts. Sign and trades for their free agents. Plenty of ways to get better. But it's the Jazz and they will remain pat for the most part and talk a lot

“We’ll exhaust all of those possibilities,” Lindsey said.

“What we need to do is look everywhere,” Zanik agreed.

of course! :lol

Xiao Yao You

09-10-2020, 02:27 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/9/21429037/rudy-gobert-donovan-mitchell-contract-extension-utah-jazz-dennis-lindsey-justin-zanik-nba

“I’m limited on what I can say in regards to extensions and renegotiations per NBA rules. With that said, we’re extremely pleased at who both of those players are as people,” Lindsey said. “It’s really, really hard to get core franchise-level talent in any market, big or small, but it’s exponentially hard to get that level of talent that has a high level of character and competitiveness. As I’ve mentioned before, we’re working to add players of Rudy and Donovan’s physical talent and competitive makeup and so by definition we’re going to want to keep those type of players moving forward.”

Wish that had been the philosophy when Millsap was here. Who knows where the team would have went :cry:

There is a level of understanding regarding the Jazz roster in Orlando and the fact that missing Bojan Bogdanovic for the postseason and Mike Conley for the first two games of the series against the Denver Nuggets was a blow to continuity.

excuses

The bubble experience has led to a lot of interesting data, but none so interesting to the Jazz front office as the physical fitness and well-being of the players when travel is reduced. Lindsey noted that using that information for the future and moving toward an MLB-series style of play, where teams stay in one market to play multiple games, could be beneficial.

interesting

Xiao Yao You

09-10-2020, 02:55 AM

Personally, I’d stick to option 1. A Favors-level acquisition up front does more to bump Utah’s title odds than the difference between Holiday and (for example) Harrison or Lee in the 8th man role. If the Jazz struck out with impact bigs, they could rethink and pivot toward Holiday or the split-MLE option.

I'd stick with Bradley and get him a cheap mentor

Need a starting 4. That should be the main goal for the off season. Everything after that is gravy

Whatever way they do it, a rim-finishing, paint-protecting big and one more big bodied defensive wing would make all the difference for Utah. Let’s say for the sake of argument that they added Favors as Gobert’s backup and then staggered the two for 3-4 minutes together per half, and also added Harrison as their defensive wing.

They fixed the offense finally and we want Favors spotting up in the corner again?

But some version of that rotation works. That roster has everything. Size. Defense. Playmaking. Shooting. 48 minutes of P&R finishing and rim protection. Multiple guys who excel at guarding the ball. They can go big or go small. They can go defense-heavy or put five scorers on the court together.

It doesn't have a starting PF. Defense? Maybe? Shooting with Favors wide open and his man doubling Mitchell or Gobert again?

And most importantly, they can compete with anybody when healthy.

not without more size, D and depth. You haven't answered it. you went back in time again. Maybe they can get Ricky too!

LKA says:
September 9, 2020 at 10:52 am (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-ii-big-wings-who-can-defend-shoot/#comment-99478)
Again great post. They have changed dates so much when does free agency start? I would go for Favors and Clarkston first in that order. With some work I think Jazz SLC guys would be the best fit and cheapest too. With that Bradley, Williams, Niang, Davis should be expendable. Should be interesting. Jazz fans should not feel so bad about the playoffs. I think Bucks and maybe Toronto are sheding big tears. Dont want Boston or either LA teams. Heat are the surprise team. In this pandemic please keep the articles comming.Thanks again.

Bradley is expendable if he's not going to be playing. Stupid! Davis needs to go somehow. Niang and Goss in the right scenario. They are depth pieces at worst. Niang is one of their best offensive players. He can actually spot up in the corner and make the shot!

Dan Clayton says:
September 9, 2020 at 12:44 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-ii-big-wings-who-can-defend-shoot/#comment-99485)
That is a rumor and nothing more. That would be a terrible trade for Utah. Randle doesn’t do any of the things that teams with a modern mindset (like Utah) want from their bigs. And it wouldn’t “save cap space” anyway. Either way, the Jazz will be over the cap and operating with their salary cap exceptions, so it doesn’t really matter from a $ perspective.

Favors has the modern mindset? Too bad he can't hit an open 3!

Michael Brown says:
September 9, 2020 at 1:26 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-ii-big-wings-who-can-defend-shoot/#comment-99486)
1. Serge Ibaka (FA)
2. Marcus Morris (FA)
3. Danillo Gallinari (FA)
4. Nemanja Bjelica (NG)
5. Christian Wood (FA)
6. Jerami Grant (FA)
7. Montrezl Harrell (FA)
8. Derrick Favors (FA)
9 David Bertans (FA) (the best defense is the best offense >;) )
10. Bobby Portis (FA)
These should be our only options if we are gonna go after someone. Stretch 4 is the key and pushes us to the next lvl.

Wow I'm not the only one paying attention. Need a starting 4. Worry about the rest when that is taken care of. If it means dealing Conley or Bojan do it! No again on Favors though

Xiao Yao You

09-10-2020, 02:55 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-ii-big-wings-who-can-defend-shoot/

The remaining list is a who’s who of the league’s best two-way talents and/or top 3-and-D prototypes. The list features All-Stars like (in descending D-PIPM order) Kawhi Leonard, Pascal Siakam, Khris Middleton, James Harden, Gordon Hayward and LeBron James. It also features known 3-and-D weapons like Wesley Matthews, O.G. Anunoby, Trevor Ariza and Gary Harris. Then there are up-and-comers like Matysse Thybulle, Bruce Brown and Brandon Clarke. It’s an impressive group.

2 former Jazzmen

But only one person from that list of two-way difference-making wings is a 2020 free agent: Milwaukee’s Sterling Brown. (Note: he’s a restricted free agent.)

didn't hit 3's though he's been decent in the past

Teams with title aspirations often focus their search on the veteran specialists in any given role. Matthews is the best of the aging 3-and-D options, with an elite D-PIPM and excellent on-ball numbers. But he will only decline his $2.7 million option if it means more money elsewhere, and I’m not sure how high Utah would bid for the 34-year-old. Similarly, the 35-year-old Ariza will hit free agency only if Portland decides to cut costs — only $1.8 million of his $12.2 million salary is guaranteed. If he winds up on the market, he’ll have other suitors.

Jazz should be in line. Ariza could start at the 4

Justin Holiday fits the 3-and-D prototype perfectly, and is younger than Matthews and Ariza. But Holiday plays starter-type minutes for Indiana. It would probably require the full MLE — and a reallocation of wing minutes — to get him. Kent Bazemore is overpaid on his current deal, but he’ll be a free agent after another nice defensive season (+1.91 D-PIPM) in a limited role. Courtney Lee is an established 3-and-D guy who played with Conley in Memphis, but he’s about to turn 35 and has played sparingly the last two season.

look good

There are plenty of younger wings who have shown defensive abilities, too. That’s where Sterling Brown comes in, but two other semi-realistic RFA wing options are Wesley Iwundu and Shaquille Harrison. Both are solid defenders with NBA size, length and builds, with improving 3-point shots (38% for Harrison last year, 34% for Iwundu). Their NBA bodies and defensive peskiness intrigue me, and yet both have had inconsistent roles with their current teams, which could indicate that they might be gettable. (More reading on Harrison (https://www.nbcsports.com/chicago/bulls/how-bulls-shaq-harrison-impacts-games-even-limited-playing-time) and Iwundu (https://orlandomagicdaily.com/2020/01/08/wesley-iwundu-stayed-ready-orlando-magic-needed/)‘s defense.)

no on 34 % unless he's cheap depth

Other RFA wings are less realistic. Taurean Prince is an above-average defender and a decent outside shooter, but Brooklyn will match reasonable offers. Same goes for Kris Dunn, a wing stopper whose wingspan somewhat makes up for his 6-foot-3 height and shaky shooting, but who Chicago would prefer to keep. Fellow Bull RFA Denzel Valentine is a little small too, but has shown some defensive ability off and on, and he’s a better spot-up shooter.

Dun was available for a long time. Who knows with a new coach. Prince didn't shoot great but has done in the past. Same with Valentine

If Utah wants to avoid the RFA drama, there are other UFA veterans with positive defensive value. Moe Harkless and Wilson Chandler are hybrid forwards with experience, but they’re not exactly 1-on-1 stoppers, and both in the low 30s on catch-and-shoot 3s. Andre Roberson, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and DeMarre Carroll are plus defenders, but all are occasionally left alone by defenses because they’re not outside threats. Evan Turner, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Jakarr Sampson and Corey Brewer have all seen their roles decline for the same reason. Jae Crowder is not really a wing and not really a stopper, but he knows Utah’s philosophy — if they could afford him after a stellar postseason.

problem with Jae is he might end up starting and shooting 8 3's a game again. Can't trust Snyder

Utah could also look at drafting someone who they felt filled the profile of a solid defender with catch-and-shoot skills, although very few rookies contribute meaningfully in year one. Or they might feel as though Miye Oni or Jarrell Brantley could slide into that role, but so far there is limited evidence that either is ready to be the 8th or 9th best guy on a title-contending outfit.

I think them, Tucker and Morgan should all be in the mix for sure. They defend and have shooting ability. Might have beat Denver if they'd been in the mix

Basically, the options are:

There's plenty of options. These are probably most likely for a team without vision

Xiao Yao You

09-11-2020, 09:50 PM

Utah Jazz coach Quin Snyder gave two donations worth $500 each to Burgess Owens, the Republican candidate in Utah’s tight 4th Congressional District race. (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/11/utah-jazzs-quin-snyder/) The donations are likely to surprise some given the public stances of the two men.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/11/utah-jazzs-quin-snyder/)

Owens has criticized those stances. He’s called Black Lives Matter a “Marxist organization,” and told Fox News that “We need to fight for our country against these Marxists and these bullies and cowards that are destroying everything they touch.” (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/11/utah-jazzs-quin-snyder/) Owens also spoke out against the NBA’s protests.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/11/utah-jazzs-quin-snyder/)

The Salt Lake Tribune learned that Snyder and Owens met Feb. 21, when a nonprofit founded by Owens, Second Chance 4 Youth, attended a Jazz game against the Spurs. (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/11/utah-jazzs-quin-snyder/) Later, Owens asked Snyder for a donation, which he delivered twice: one $500 donation on May 3, and another $500 on June 3, according to campaign disclosures.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/11/utah-jazzs-quin-snyder/)

Can you fire his ass now?

Xiao Yao You

09-12-2020, 02:23 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/9/11/21432622/julius-randle-trade-rumors-utah-jazz

But come on, the Utah Jazz did not trade two 1st round picks for Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) just to turn around and trade him for Julius Randle (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298523/julius-randle). I mean, Dennis Lindsey literally just said in an interview that they are looking for guys with defensive integrity and athleticism. Does that sound like Julius Randle (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/299607/julius-randle) to you?

Does it sound like Conley or Bojan? Randle isn't my first choice but they need a 4 so Id rather have him than Conley at this stage

I really like the idea of Gordon on the jazz (he’s the player I wanted UTA to target last year) but I don’t know if ORL will trade him for what UTA could offer. Maybe ORL would want Conley for a year to further Fultz’s development but I doubt it. Matching salaries would also be tricky.

Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Sep 11, 2020 | 11:22 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/9/11/21432622/julius-randle-trade-rumors-utah-jazz#531440647)

makes more sense for Bojan. His shooting worries me. If they think they can improve that than sure. Tobias than Portis would probably be my first two choices

Any team that doesn’t want Bertan on their roster is stupid

Posted by J-Note (https://www.sbnation.com/users/J-Note) on Sep 11, 2020 | 11:42 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/9/11/21432622/julius-randle-trade-rumors-utah-jazz#531441410)

does he improve the defense? The offense isn't a problem. Need to fix the D and not give up spacing. Lindsey even seems to get it. Be surprised if he fixes it though

It ain’t going to happen because NYK isn’t that dumb. Conley and his contract have negative value right now. The only way we are getting out of having to pay him another $34.5m is if we give up a bunch of assets (i.e. picks/young players) to convince someone to take him. Not worth it.
Just ride this puppy out. If anything, his value in the trade market will be more valuable (less negative) at the trade deadline. By then, teams that know they aren’t going to make the playoffs anyway will be willing to take him on just to dump salary at the end of the season. Also, at that point we will have a better idea of the value of this year’s draft picks because they will be actual players by then.
If the Jazz really want to trade Conley, wait until the trade deadline to do it.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Sep 11, 2020 | 12:04 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/9/11/21432622/julius-randle-trade-rumors-utah-jazz#531442261)

expiring contract.

crowder really is the only one to miss
and everyone hated him anyway lol
hes also the only one you can really call a back court player
tho the jazz prolly woulda drafted a backcourt player if they kept the pick (just not clarke cuz he woulda been gone)

Posted by letter to the Corinthians (https://www.sbnation.com/users/letter%20to%20the%20Corinthians) on Sep 11, 2020 | 2:44 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/9/11/21432622/julius-randle-trade-rumors-utah-jazz#531447754)

Didn't miss Crowder's 8 2's a game and yes he isn't really a 4 either

Xiao Yao You

09-16-2020, 01:22 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/15/21436850/utah-jazz-nba-quin-snyder-justin-zanik-dennis-lindsey-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert

“The one thing we were missing was Bojan’s ability to score over the top of the defense in a simple and very efficient way,” Lindsey said.

offense isn't the issue!

Some questions will have to be answered during the offseason about the back half of the rotation, but those aren’t generally factors that vault a team from good to great. A big X-factor that can, though, is luck. Whether fortunate or unfortunate, a lot of things have to break right for a team to be great once it has good enough players in place to be successful.

can't hope for luck with 6 rookies and no PF

Xiao Yao You

09-16-2020, 08:53 AM

Green has value on both ends of the court because of his versatility to guard multiple positions. On offense, he is an ideal bench option, averaging 6.8 points on 38.7% from 3. Don’t be surprised if Green sees offers for all or most of the $9.3 million midlevel exception. He would be a good fit in Portland, especially if Carmelo Anthony does not return (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/29887390/next-la-clippers-paul-george-future-three-key-free-agents).
– via Bobby Marks @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/29887390/next-la-clippers-paul-george-future-three-key-free-agents)

Makes sense for the Jazz but they haven't seemed interested in the past

Xiao Yao You

09-17-2020, 12:54 PM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/16/analysis-with-nuggets/

Analysis: With Nuggets’ conquest of Clippers, are the Utah Jazz closer to next level than we thought?

Who knows? A starting PF and some vets instead of rookies the coach won't play might have made all the difference in the world. A new coach and front office might as well. You've got one of the few guys in the league that has been able to single handedly carry a team the past 5 plus years

After all, the Jazz held a 3-1 lead over the Nuggets and a 15-point advantage in the second half of Game 5, they were a Mike Conley 3-pointer at the buzzer of Game 7 away from salvaging the surrendered advantage (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/01/live-utah-jazz-take/). And they did it all without their second-best offensive player, as Bojan Bogdanovic missed the entire seven games due to wrist surgery.

2nd leading scorer not 2nd best offensive player though he might be after Rudy

Meanwhile, with the Clippers employing the traditional paint-bound Ivica Zubac and the rim-running Montrezl Harrell as their two primary bigs, Rudy Gobert would theoretically have had more of a defensive impact, given his increased ability to patrol the lane, rather than chase another 5-out center around the 3-point line.

and less impact on the offensive end with those guys defending him instead of Jokic?

Certainly, it’s no stretch to say that the Lakers would have been an exceedingly difficult matchup for Utah. Los Angeles' length and sized proved problematic for the Jazz in both regular-season games and the one restart seeding matchup they faced off in — all of which were won by the Lakers.

Maybe small ball could have hurt the Lakers too?

That’s not a terribly compelling résumé for being legit contenders. Also, let’s not forget that this roster has certifiable deficiencies in terms of perimeter defense, a consistent backup for Gobert (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/12/analysis-might-utah-jazz/) and a dearth of depth — factors that played a significant role late against Denver.

Again no mention of a starting PF. Quit blaming their problems on the youngest guy on the team who lead the league in offensive rebound % and is improving rapidly. They need defenders. They Need size. They need depth

Xiao Yao You

09-17-2020, 01:10 PM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/15/21436850/utah-jazz-nba-quin-snyder-justin-zanik-dennis-lindsey-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert

The queries have come as the Jazz have made the leap from bad to good under Snyder and Lindsey, improving from a 38-44 record in the 2014-15 season — Snyder’s first — to 51-31 two seasons later. In addition to more wins, Utah made the second round of the playoffs in 2017 and 2018.

Trying helps. After that first season where they were the 6th best team in the league after Kanter was traded and it officially became Rudy's team though that started in December they added Neto and Pleiss. Not the veteran pg they desperately needed though rookie Neto was better than Burke as we knew from the first time he stepped on the court in summer league and Exum. Finally added 3rd stringer Mack who made a huge difference but it was too little too late! With Hayward becoming a free agent they finally add some help for Rudy and thanks to Favors injury and Hood sucking we finally got a glimpse of what they could be with 4 guys spacing the floor around Rudy. So what do they do? Trash that and replace Hill with Rubio and put Favors and Hood back in the starting lineup! After two years of that they finally fix the offense with guess what 4 shooters around Rudy! Unfortunately they did it with no PF, little D, depth, vets and the same coach! :facepalm

So, first and foremost, the Jazz’s most likely path to greatness is that Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert take more steps forward after being named All-Stars this season. Mitchell needs to be among the NBA’s elite scorers and Gobert needs to remain among the top defenders in the league.

Mitchell needs to be one of the best players in the league like Rudy which means becoming more efficient and playing at least some D

“The one thing we were missing was Bojan’s ability to score over the top of the defense in a simple and very efficient way,” Lindsey said.

offense wasn't the problem. How are these guys in charge?

Some questions will have to be answered during the offseason about the back half of the rotation, but those aren’t generally factors that vault a team from good to great. A big X-factor that can, though, is luck. Whether fortunate or unfortunate, a lot of things have to break right for a team to be great once it has good enough players in place to be successful.

giving the money to Ed instead of a starting pf and carrying 6 rookies instead of vets who Snyder wouldn't play because they didn't go to Duke has nothing to do with luck!

Xiao Yao You

09-18-2020, 07:57 AM

https://bustingbrackets.com/2020/09/17/nba-draft-2020-biggest-needs-western-conference-franchise/15/

Biggest needs: Point guard/shooting guard and power forward

got one of them right anyway. starting PF PF PF PF PF!!!!!!

Considering that Conley had his struggles fitting in this past season, it won’t be surprising if Utah goes for another ball-handler. That was a major problem in the Denver series, with the Jazz not having many players who can create their own offense.

how can anyone watch and think they need more offense?

Upgrading the frontcourt could also help but when your star guard averaged 37 ppg and your team still loses, giving Mitchell help should be of huge priority for Utah. Maybe Utah can find another gem to propel themselves to the western conference finals, and eventually, get their revenge on Denver.

and Conley over 20, Rudy at 17 and whatever Clarkson put up. D fense D fense D fense!!!

Xiao Yao You

09-19-2020, 05:29 AM

This is Utah’s main use of finding a guy who can slide into its rotation. Obviously, there is significant Derrick Favors speculation here. Here’s the deal. There is mutual interest. (https://theathletic.com/2075676/2020/09/18/from-the-nba-draft-to-free-agency-a-primer-for-the-utah-jazz-offseason/) Favors would not mind a return to Utah, even if it means coming off the bench as Gobert’s primary backup. But, at this point, that’s all it is … interest. The Jazz have to decide whether Favors would be the right place to spend their most significant chunk of offseason money, especially considering finding a 3-and-D wing is of greater priority. Favors will have multiple suitors on the market, including his incumbent team, the New Orleans Pelicans. So, there’s a lot that can happen between now and the opening of free agency.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2075676/2020/09/18/from-the-nba-draft-to-free-agency-a-primer-for-the-utah-jazz-offseason/)

starting PF or STFU!!!!!!!!

Xiao Yao You

09-19-2020, 05:45 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/18/21444607/how-the-utah-jazz-can-bolster-their-bench-this-offseason-2020

SALT LAKE CITY — Entering the 2019-2020 season, one of the narratives surrounding the Utah Jazz was the notion that they would have good depth after signing players such as Jeff Green and Ed Davis in free agency.

that's the narrative every year and it's rarely true. This year they especially looked thin and that was before Green and Davis didn't work out and they ended up with 6 rookies not playing

That proved to not be the case, as Green and Davis were an utter failure. Additionally, a third offseason signee, Emmanuel Mudiay, had a few good moments but nothing great and returnee Dante Exum was traded at Christmastime after once again not being impactful because of injury.

Exum sucks. could e stop with the narative it was because of injury! Mudiay was fine for a minumum wage end of the rotation guy. Needed more of them not 6 rookies not from Duke

The good news for the Jazz was that the unit of Donovan Mitchell, Joe Ingles, Royce O’Neale, Bojan Bogdanovic and Rudy Gobert was arguably the best 5-man unit in the entire league (https://stats.nba.com/lineups/advanced/?Season=2019-20&SeasonType=Regular%20Season) with a net rating of 13.7 in 570 minutes, and the one replacing Ingles with Mike Conley wasn’t too far behind, with a net rating of 9.7 in 381 minutes.

I bet the rating wasn't that good against the best competition. They beat up on crappy teams again

Yes, Bogdanovic, Conley, Ingles, Mitchell, Gobert and O’Neale will all be back next season barring a wholly unexpected shakeup, but the Jazz could still stand to improve their second unit this offseason. The good news for them is that they have a couple of avenues to do so.

starting PF!

While not an improvement per se, the most important step for the bench surely is bringing back Clarkson, who is an unrestricted free agent. The marriage between he and Utah was a good one for both sides after the trade, and the Jazz will be able to offer him more money than any other team (they hold what is known as his Bird rights).

2nd step is letting him go!

While the hope of Utah’s front office surely would be that they can add a few quality free agents using the exceptions, there are also a bevy of players who could provide internal improvement. Tony Bradley came out of nowhere this season to be a relatively productive backup center, but can he continue to get even better?

youngest guy on the team who got better all year. Why wouldn't he?

Additionally, there are a whole bunch of guys who played mostly with the Salt Lake City Stars (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/7/31/21345012/in-the-nba-bubble-the-young-players-at-the-end-of-the-utah-jazz-bench-are-more-important-than-ever) who could theoretically improve to the point of becoming a rotation regular next season. Morgan is certainly the most likely candidate after filling in well enough for Bogdanovic in the playoffs, but could players such as Jarrell Brantley and Miye Oni take steps forward?

Brantley seems most likely and Tucker should be in the mix as well. Could improve their D!

The last item in reshaping the bench is figuring out what needs are left after the seeming likelihood that Mudiay will depart in free agency and that the Jazz could look to trade Davis for a bit of salary relief, even if all they get in return is something like a second-round draft pick.

They aren't getting anything for Davis. they are giving something to get rid of him!

Xiao Yao You

09-19-2020, 06:04 AM

The Jazz certainly signed those end-of-bench rookies with the hope that at least of them would turn into a rotation player over time, but I’d probably suggest more patience here. Going from a 15th-man type role to being in the rotation is a big jump. If they felt like any of those guys was close to helping a contender, then at least one of them would have hit 200 minutes at some point. None did, even with extra minutes as Utah began resting rotation players down the stretch. (In Brantley’s case, he didn’t even reach 100 season minutes.)

they can help

Brantley will become a RFA if the Jazz first offer him a second two-way contract with $50,000 guaranteed salary. Then, he can either accept that contract offer and return on a two-way, or enter free agency and see if he can get an offer from someone for a standard NBA deal that the Jazz could decide whether to match. Oni and Tucker are both under contract for next season, but without full guarantees. Oni is reportedly fully non-guaranteed, while $340,000 of Tucker’s salary is already locked in.

1st team all gleague. He's done what he can there. Needs a shot at a rotation somwhere

If you could teleport one previous non All-Star Jazz man from before 2010 onto this team, who would it be and why? @jarommoore

Millsap

I love Harrison (as stated above), but I think of him more as a wing. If we’re talking about the third string, cheap backup point guard options are relatively easy to come by. D.J. Agustin, E’Twaun Moore, Yogi Ferrell, Shabazz Napier, or frankly even Raul Neto. Or yeah, to your point, they could use the 11th through 15th man spots on some young guys who have potential, so that if one of them hits they might get a future rotation player out of it. That’s how Utah has been using its deep bench roles recently.

Neto wasn't appreciated first time around

The Jazz had a miss-matched roster last year with three starting non-shooters but panicked and swung way too far in the other direction. Now they have too many ball-dominant guards and not enough defense. Had we simply signed Bogdanovic and let Rubio go then made the Clarkson trade we would have had great balance and complementary skills.

They didn't panic. They waited 2 years to do what was obvious. Did a horrible jobe filling in the rest of the roster

Xiao Yao You

09-19-2020, 06:05 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-qa-gobert-extension-more/

That said, forking over the supermax (a contract starting at 35% of the team salary cap) for someone who’s not a perennial MVP candidate can be pretty limiting. So what does Utah do with all of that? I have no clue. I wouldn’t fault them for erring on the side of rewarding their player. I also wouldn’t fault them if they were able to give him a little less without making him feel unappreciated. It doesn’t sound as though Gobert himself is obsessed with the supermax as a validation of his worth.

Pay him more than other teams can offer and hope it's enough. If he's smart he leaves and goes where they will put a team around him

So to answer your broader question here: I quite like Utah’s core. They are entering a period where they’ll be capped out for the foreseeable future and their only way to get better will be smart upgrades on the margins. That’s difficult, but every team deals with that as they rise to contender status, because great players get paid. They’re in good shape, but nailing those complementary roster moves is going to become increasingly important. Hopefully the Jazz can become a destination for useful veterans, the way other small markets like Milwaukee and San Antonio did once they became elite.

they never have been able to fill the margins. Doesn't sound like this off season will be any different either

I hear you. I am pro-Favors (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/), too, and the possibility of him returning is real. That said, if Gobert gets anything close to the supermax and Favors gets the full MLE, then you’re spending $45 million on the center position. So I get why it’s worth thinking about how that move fits in the broader prioritization of things. Really what it comes down to is this: the Jazz have a couple different needs to address and a finite number of tools they can use to address them. Favors at the full MLE might wind up being the right answer, but it depends on how the market plays out relative to their other needs. Which leads right into the next couple of questions…

Bradley and a cheap vet behind him. **** Favors!

They’d probably need to buy Favors 3-4 minutes per half alongside Gobert, just to get his minute total to a range where he’d be satisfied. But it certainly wouldn’t need to be during the opening minutes of halves. A few nightly minutes at power forward would bring Favors’ average to 20-22 (more if Gobert misses any time), and that’s probably appropriate.

no thanks!

As for Davis, he just didn’t work out, and I don’t think he has a future role with the Jazz. If they can’t move him, they’ll just eat his remaining $5 million and either let him hang at the end of the bench or let him walk. They’ll try to move off that $5 million, but if they’re able to move him, it will probably be for someone else’s distressed asset. For example, Toronto isn’t really using Stanley Johnson, a big wing who hasn’t lived up to his defensive reputation and who doesn’t shoot well. If Johnson opts into his $3.8 million next season (which he almost surely will), the Raptors might want to move him. And who knows, maybe they’d prefer a deep bench center at $5M over a deep bench wing at nearly $4M. It’s hard to say. But that’s the best case scenario in a Davis trade: swapping Utah’s non-rotation veteran for somebody else’s non-rotation veteran.

or throwing in assets for someone to take him or eating his contrat which is unlikely

Xiao Yao You

09-20-2020, 07:52 AM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/259635/Jazz-Could-Buy-Into-Second-Round-Of-2020-Draft-Have-Interest-In-Derrick-Favors-Reunion

Yay more 2nd rounders that won't play and probably won't even have a gleague to play in!

Hopefully someone wants to pay Favors more

Xiao Yao You

09-22-2020, 02:50 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/21/21445954/utah-jazz-mike-conley-paul-george-derrick-favors-quin-snyder-adam-silver-nba-bubble

If the Jazz use part of the MLE on a guy like Baynes, who by the way would give the Jazz a frontcourt perimeter threat, or are able to free up enough cap money to use on him, they could use the rest or all of the MLE and the biannual exception to find versatile defending wings that they desperately need to fill out the roster.

They are in desperate need of a starting 4! Did anyone watch the team this year at all? After that you can talk about whatever and whoever but that's where it needs to start

That being said, I can’t say what the Jazz would do. But, I can say what I would do. I wouldn’t make the deal. I’d be looking forward to the possibility of getting away from Mike Conley’s $34 million contract and freeing up some space for younger players and I wouldn’t want to break up chemistry and continuity for George, who was kind of a dud in the postseason and has not lived up to expectations, all the while being tied to him through the 2021-22 season for $37 million.

Starting 4. Superstar. D. Pass! :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

09-22-2020, 05:28 PM

Sam Amick: “You’ve got the Buddy Hield situation. He does not see himself as a sixth man. He’s not happy as a sixth man. That problem is not going away, and you gave him starter money. Do you test the market on Buddy? Can you get anything back?” (https://*********.com/2020/09/22/*********-podcast-michael-scotto-sam-amick-nba-coaching-rumors-sacramento-kings/)
– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/2020/09/22/*********-podcast-michael-scotto-sam-amick-nba-coaching-rumors-sacramento-kings/)

Hield for Bojan? Conley for Tobias? Ed Davis flller? Goodbye Clarkson?

Xiao Yao You

09-23-2020, 09:32 PM

JaMychal Green is a valuable 3-and-D big who would fit as a low-end starter or third big for most NBA teams. He could command as much as the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, league sources tell The Athletic. (https://theathletic.com/2077804/2020/09/23/clippers-offseason-to-do-list-assessing-their-free-agents-and-roster-options/?source=emp_shared_article) The Clippers have his Early Bird Rights and can offer upwards of $9.5 million annually starting next season.
– via Jovan Buha @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2077804/2020/09/23/clippers-offseason-to-do-list-assessing-their-free-agents-and-roster-options/?source=emp_shared_article)

2nd big on the Jazz but they weren't interested in him before so I doubt that has changed

Xiao Yao You

09-24-2020, 07:46 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/23/21452423/utah-jazz-grades-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-mike-conley-joe-ingles-royce-o-neale-jordan-clarkson

Donovan Mitchell: A

Didn't bring his A game until December or January and that was on one side of the ball. If he's an A how does he get better?

Rudy Gobert: A-

Mithell A and Rudy A - :roll:

When all is said and done, Gobert is the defensive anchor of the Jazz and the team’s second best player who overcame a huge amount of adversity this season and came out on the other side a more mature and thoughtful player and teammate.

their 2nd best player? :facepalm

When Mitchell plays both sides of the ball and can carry the team get back to me

One of the Jazz’s biggest offseason needs is finding a switchable, lengthy, athletic defender who can guard some of the league’s premier perimeter threats. Part of the reason the Jazz need a player like that is because Ingles is not as reliable in those situations as he once was.

get a starting PF and than worry about other stuff!

Bojan Bogdanovic: A

another one dimensional player ahead of Rudy! :facepalm

Under contract through the 2022-23 season, Bogdanovic will make just over $56 million over the next three years, and for what he brings to the table, and the ease with which he fits with the Jazz, it seems like a steal.

a steal?

No longer tasked with being the leading scorer or main source of production on a team as he was in Memphis for over a decade, Conley’s production dips were completely expected and understandable. It was the amount of time it took for him to really catch on and find his place with the team that hurt him this season.

He was fine except the first few games. Not a great fit with Mitchell

Jordan Clarkson: A-

He's up with Rudy! :roll:

That’s a trait that can’t be taught and is completely invaluable. If the Jazz are able to re-sign Clarkson this offseason and bring him back, there’s no doubt that Snyder will be the first one celebrating.

maybe the coach needs to go elsewhere with Clarkson

Niang has continued to transform his body — becoming leaner — which has helped him on the defensive end. As the season progressed and then play resumed in the Orlando bubble, Niang found himself in various positions guarding players of every type, and he held his own in some tough situations.

not really seeing it. Would love to though. I think it's where he could improve

But Bradley’s development this season was really great. He went from playing just 12 games over the last two season to playing in 58 regular season games and six playoff games this season.

but let's bring in Favors!

But Davis never found a place within the Jazz’s system and was rather quickly played out of the rotation. The fit just wasn’t right. It would be shocking if the Jazz didn’t try to move away from him this offseason.

good luck!

A breakout year in the G League earned Rayjon Tucker a full NBA deal from the Jazz in December. His explosive athleticism and strength at 22 years-old gives the Jazz hope that future development will come easy for him.

D and energy?

Another player who spent the majority of the season on assignment with the Stars, Miye Oni got his biggest chance in the seeding games in the bubble. His 3-point shooting ability, along with his quickness, versatility and craftiness with the ball, are all enticing traits that could make him a valuable project.

length and D?

Developing point guard Nigel Williams-Goss had a pretty good season for the Stars but barely got the chance to show off his skills for the Jazz. He wasn’t one of the players that received a lot of praise in the extra minutes garnered during the seeding games, and it didn’t earn him any more time on the floor.

was hurt and only played the last game! Could see him as a 3rd pg. Stars were better with him than without him

If there’s a deep bench player outside of Oni who shined in the bubble for the Jazz, it was Jarrell Brantley. The Stars’ second leading scorer offers versatility, good defensive instincts and hustle that are all good signs for a player hoping to earn a full NBA deal.

Tucker? Morgan? Does it all. Needs to shoot better. Should get a shot at some teams rotation

With just four games under his belt with the Jazz, there was very little of Justin Wright-Foreman to analyze outside of his time with the Stars. It likely wasn’t enough to earn him another year with the Jazz.

can fill it up. Rather have him than Clarkson

Xiao Yao You

09-24-2020, 08:05 AM

Among other 43s in Jazz history is former Grizzlies’ head coach Marc Iavaroni, who warmed the bench for the Jazz in the late 80s.

He started! So as much he sucked he should get this

Despite being in just his first season with the Jazz, I have little hesitation in naming Bojan Bogdanovic as the top 44 in team history. The only real competition comes from Pete Maravich, but the number 7 is on the jersey hanging in the rafters for Maravich. Because Maravich has already been honored as the best #7 in team history and because he only wore 44 with the Jazz for his first season in New Orleans, I can’t justify giving him the honor here. Another 44, Greg Foster, was an important role player for the late 90s title runs but, unless my memory fails me, Foster never hit two game winning 3s in the same season. Bogey wins. (That those game-winners came against the league-leading Bucks and rival Rockets only makes them sweeter.)

Pistol

Before there was Tag there was Felton Spencer. The Jazz sent Mike Brown to Minnesota in 1993 to bring back Spencer. Spencer was a serviceable starting center for 3 seasons in the mid-90s. Eventually traded for a package of players and a draft pick that would be used to select Andrei Kirilenko, Spencer’s time with the Jazz was brief but he was part of some good Jazz teams.

was good before he blew out his knee

Eaton was a large man who specialized on one side of the court. The current NBA record holder for blocks in a season (456) and the record holder for most blocks-per-game (5.56) Eaton was a defensive beast who didn’t offer very much on the offensive side. Still, if the timing had been just a little bit different, one can imagine the Jazz with Eaton instead of Ostertag defeating the ’97 and ’98 Bulls.

I can't imagine it. He sucked

Melvin Turpin and Mikki Moore also received consideration as the best 54 in Jazz history.

Turpin was great. Moore was good too. Dinaldson wasn't

Former BYU standout Araujo also received a good portion of response from fans, but his one season with the Jazz was mostly unremarkable.

I liked him

THEY MISSED HIS LEADERSHIP AND PHYSICALITY THIS YEAR!!!

didn't miss the 8 3 attempts a game

Xiao Yao You

09-24-2020, 08:05 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/jazz-by-the-numbers-part-2/

Despite the notability of others who have worn the number, there is little doubt that Big Al Jefferson made the biggest impact on the floor of any player to wear 25 for the Jazz. While his three seasons with the Jazz were not the brightest in the squad’s history, Al started every game he played for the Jazz and averaged a solid 18.5 points and 9.5 rebounds per game in his time in Utah.

I'll take Neto and Goodrich over the blackhole

Rudy Gobert would probably be the best 27 in Jazz history even if he weren’t the only player ever to wear the number for the Jazz

only 12 and 32 have been better. It's not close

Joining Kyle Korver, David Benoit and Raja Bell as players to have multiple stints with the Jazz, Theodore “Blue” Edwards was the starting small forward for the Jazz from 1989-90 to 1991-92 before being traded to the Bucks for Jay Humphries and current University of Utah coach Larry Krystkowiak.

Jerry didn't like Blue or Benoit either

The Mini-van Georges Niang will have to bide his time if he wants to rise to the top of players who have worn 31 for the Jazz, as Adam Keefe holds that position for now. Keefe never put up the best numbers but he was a rotation player through much of the 90s, including with both Finals teams. Keefe spent six of his nine years in the NBA with the Jazz after the Hawks traded him in exchange for future Jazz coach Ty Corbin. Keefe ended up being traded to the Warriors in 2000 in a massive 4-team trade that saw the Jazz trade away Keefe, Howard Eisley and future first to acquire Donyell Marshall.

liked Keefe!

Boris Diaw is one of my all-time favorite players and even if he had little impact on the court for the Jazz in his brief time with the team, I’m personally tempted to name him here. But as with so many fans, I also love Trevor Booker and he won the popular vote here.

His corpse being at the 4 instead of Favors had a huge impact actually. But let's put Favors and Hood back in the starting lineup and get Rubio!

While eight players have worn 34 for the Jazz, this really ends up being a two-way race between long-time Jazzmen. Bryon Russell was a key member of the Jazz for nine years, including the two title runs, while C.J. Miles played seven years for the Jazz after being drafted with the 34th pick in the 2005 NBA draft. While Russell probably had the bigger impact on the team, he only wore 34 for his first 3 seasons before changing to the number 3. So, the top 34 in Jazz history goes to Mr. Miles.

still got to be Russell. Jerry never liked CJ

Despite some memorable times with both Brown and Evans, the honor here goes to Shandon Anderson. Anderson only spent three seasons with the Jazz but earned a spot in the rotation as a rookie on the 1997 Finals team and increased his minutes as Jeff Hornacek’s back-up in each of the following seasons. Following the lockout shortened 1999 season, Anderson chose to sign with the Rockets as a free agent.

Jazz chose for him when they made the over the hill Horny their priority instead of Shandon!

Xiao Yao You

09-25-2020, 10:27 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/2020/09/24/gordon-monson-heres/

Miami has had its share of success in past seasons, but this Heat team is different. There’s no Dwyane Wade in his prime here, no LeBron James. There were few predictions that this group would pretty much waltz its way to a 3-1 lead in the Eastern Conference finals. Jimmy Butler is a great player, but at this stage would anyone trade Mitchell for him?

Should be talking Gobert and Butler. They are 2 of the few guys in the league that have carried their franchises on their backs

The Jazz aren’t that far removed from their goal.

They are a starting PF, more size, more D, more depth and probably a new coach away

Mitchell and Gobert, as the team’s stars, need to continue to improve. Considering Mitchell just turned 24 and Gobert is 28, they have many stellar years ahead. Everyone saw Mitchell’s advanced play in the bubble. Now, in addition, those top guys need help, a boost which Bogdanovic, at least in part, can give. As Lindsey recently noted, the Jazz seek more perimeter defense, resistance that won’t blow a hole in their spacing at the offensive end.

and Bojan doesn't help there so quit bringing him up!

They have some of what the Jazz do not. But Utah has some advantages, as well. Bottom line is this — the disparity is anything but vast. The Jazz are moving forward. The chance to narrow the gap is there.

forward? Offense went back to where it should have been 2 years ago and the defense went back to Big Al days

Xiao Yao You

09-25-2020, 10:47 AM

https://fansided.com/2020/09/23/devin-booker-donovan-mitchell-jamal-murray-power-ranking/

Mitchell, famously, scored a bazillion points in the first-round for Utah, single-handedly carrying a short-handed offense and doing it on a true shooting percentage that scraped 70. It was another gear (or two?) for a talented young player who had already shown that he could be the primary offensive creator for a team pushing deep into the playoffs.

Conley over 20 a game and two others over 15 a game! :roll:

Xiao Yao You

09-25-2020, 05:50 PM

Adrian Wojnarowski: The Jazz are also hiring former NBA guard Keyon Dooling in a player development role, (https://*********.com/social/tweets/) sources tell ESPN. Dooling played parts of 13 years in the NBA, and collegiately for Quin Snyder at the University of Missouri.
– via Twitter Money23Green (https://twitter.com/Money23Green)

maybe be able to help Mitchell play the one?

Xiao Yao You

09-25-2020, 05:54 PM

Adrian Wojnarowski: Former New Orleans Pelicans general manager Dell Demps has agreed to join the Utah Jazz as an assistant coach, (https://*********.com/social/) reuniting with Quin Snyder, sources tell ESPN.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Adrian Wojnarowski: After leaving New Orleans in 2019, Demps decided he wanted to transition to coaching and spent time in Utah attending practices and meetings with Snyder and his Jazz staff. (https://*********.com/social/) They were together with G-League Austin 2007-2010 and built a strong working and personal relationship.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

they have to have by far the most former GM's in the league

Xiao Yao You

09-25-2020, 09:24 PM

Tony Jones: Dell Demps steps directly into Johnnie Bryant’s role on the bench, league sources tell The Athletic. The Jazz shy away from assigning hierarchy among assistants. (https://*********.com/social/) But if Quin Snyder gets kicked out of a game, Alex Jensen would take over
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

Tony Jones: The hiring process with Keyon Dooling went about a week, (https://*********.com/social/) according to league sources
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

Xiao Yao You

09-27-2020, 03:24 PM

Grant is due $9.3 million next season if he decides to opt into his current contract, according to *********.com’s salary database. A league source suggested Grant could command anywhere from $14 million to $16 million annually over several years (https://www.denverpost.com/2020/09/27/nuggets-jerami-grant-opt-out/).
– via Mike Singer @ Denver Post (https://www.denverpost.com/2020/09/27/nuggets-jerami-grant-opt-out/)

He'd be great. Not sure how they could get him though

Xiao Yao You

09-28-2020, 03:09 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/9/27/21455511/crazy-trade-ideas-for-the-utah-jazz-that-will-never-happen-unless-they-do-nba-offseason-free-agency

Whatever trade the Jazz end up doing, it should be with the focus on amplifying Donovan Mitchell’s game

it should be to get better

Not only did Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell) show the playmaking ability necessary, it also showed the benefits of having bigger, longer, athletic players surrounding him on the defensive end. A lot of Utah’s defensive issues came from a lack of size on the perimeter as well as a minus defender in Bojan Bogdanovic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296476/bojan-bogdanovic) and an aging Joe Ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297999/joe-ingles) playing major minutes.

you forgot the most glaring thing. No PF!!!

The more you look at the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) roster, the more it’s clear they need to consider adjusting things.

all you have to do is look at the roster and have watched them play all year

Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) is also going to give Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell) a max contract. It’s time to also give him their trust with the team.

when he shows he can carry it at both ends sure

Getting Harris (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296600/tobias-harris) from the Sixers gives the Jazz a big wing that can fit into the 4-spot more comfortably than Bogdanovic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296476/bojan-bogdanovic) did last season. Swapping out Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) for Harris (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296600/tobias-harris) also provides the size the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) need to fill lanes on the defensive end.

O'Neale was the 4 if you can call him or any of them that

The most obvious problem for Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) in this scenario is Griffin’s (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296852/blake-griffin) health. Griffin (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296852/blake-griffin) hasn’t been able to stay on the floor the last few seasons. Could Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) figure out how to keep him healthy?

no thanks. Looks like a great fit offensively if he'd be on the floor enough

Trade 3. Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) for Chris Paul (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296559/chris-paul)

need to get bigger not smaller

Trade 4. Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) for Otto Porter Jr. (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/295535/otto-porter-jr)

he was also hurt. Harris if they think they can pay 3 max guys for years to come and put a team around them. If not Portis or someone else.

Xiao Yao You

09-29-2020, 07:29 AM

When the ball isn’t in his hands, he is an elite catch-and-shoot guy. During the season, he averaged 42 percent on catch-and-shoot threes and in the playoffs he upped it to 58 percent. Conley can play with or without the ball in his hands and affect the game in a big way. The only concern left on Conley is if a backcourt with two small guards (Conley and Donovan Mitchell) can defend at a high level. Expect to see Conley back in a Jazz uniform.

they can't. He needs to be shopped along with Bojan and Ed. Need a starting 4. Need more size, D and depth

With Bogdanovic out, the Jazz got really small, really fast. They started Royce O’Neale at power forward who is just 6-foot-4. What we learned is the Jazz need to add more defensive to the wing position. Dennis Lindsey confirmed this during his end of the year press conference: “Anyone with defensive integrity who is an active and athletic defender will be someone who is of interest to us,” Tony Jones tweeted out. The Jazz going small wasn’t the issue, it was having a lack of defensive minded players at the wing position. Lindsey got a clear answer on this and look for him to address it this offseason.

O'Neale has been the starting 4 all year. They needed the bubble to see that they needed more? It was obvious before the year started and became more evident

The Jazz’s season ended in heartbreak but with stars Mitchell and Gobert in place, they are set up for long playoff runs for the foreseeable future. A few tweaks around them is all that is needed.

An NBA caliber starting 4 is more than a tweak

LKA says:
September 28, 2020 at 4:35 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/drawing-answers-from-the-jazzs-bubble-experience/#comment-99505)
Thanks for the post.I would go the extra and get Favors back. Would be the key. In this market I would think Conley would opt in. Start he and Mitchell but make sure one of them is on the court at all times. Lock Mitchell in and do the best possible for Gobert. Keep Clarkston unless he wants more money. I would hope they can find a place for Davis without sending extras with him. Bradley, Niang, Goss, could be used as trade. Oneal showed some weak spots in the playoffs. If they could get someone very good they could throw him in as trade also. Morgan, Tucker, Brantley,oni, look like keepers. Foreman is borderline. How about getting Alec Burks back? Looks like he could be a pretty good scorer. And from what he was getting paid affordable too. I like the Sterling Brown idea also. Bucks will want to get a player to break the bank.

I'd look to trade Ingles before O'Neale! Snyder didn't like Burks. Why bring him back? He didn't have the freedom Clarkson did and he's a better player

Xiao Yao You

09-29-2020, 07:29 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/drawing-answers-from-the-jazzs-bubble-experience/

Before Clarkson was traded to the Jazz, he had only ever played in the playoffs once, with the Cavs in 2018. His playoff appearance left much to be desired and he didn’t play often during the NBA Finals. Clarkson played well in his second playoff appearance, averaging 28 minutes and scoring 16.7 points a game during the series. The Jazz needed Clarkson and he delivered. Expect the Jazz to try to bring him back on a long-term deal.

let's hope we've seen the last of him

Mudiay’s playoff appearance didn’t go as well as Clarkson’s. More than anyone else on the team, Mudiay had the most to prove during the bubble. In my bubble preview I wrote that Mudiay had perhaps the best chance to “improve his stock the most for this upcoming free agency period.” By the end of the season, Mudiay was out of the rotation despite playing well while the team was without Conley in the regular season. Mudiay was going to get first crack at Bogdanovic’s remaining minutes in the postseason, but he didn’t meet the challenge, averaging just 11 minutes a game and was -1.3 on the court. This might not have been the best scenario for Mudiay to succeed since he is better with the ball in his hands than as a spot up shooter. Don’t expect to see him return to the Jazz’s roster next season.

rather have him than Clarkson. He played well earlier in the year. More upside and cheaper

Another question we explored pre-bubble was about the Jazz’s future depth up front. During the extended break in action, rumors came out that former Jazz big man Derrick Favors was interested in returning to Utah next season. This set up an interesting situation for Tony Bradley. During the bubble run, he could make the Jazz’s decision an easy one and show he was capable of being Rudy Gobert’s backup. The results were just so-so. The Jazz bled points during the time Gobert was on the bench. Comparing Gobert, who is a world class defender, and Bradley isn’t fair. Another thing to consider is that the Jazz perimeter defenders aren’t world class and if Bradley had more help from them he wouldn’t have looked as bad. Having Favors back would be a much better option but the Jazz will have to consider Favors’ asking price and whether it makes sense financially. (Bradley is already under contract for next season at just over $3.5 million.)

have to consider rather you're giving up on your youngest player which is what they'd be doing

Bradley is a good rim roller and has nice touch around the basket. Throughout the entire season he did show growth as he looked to make the case that he can become the long term answer at backup center. If the Jazz do sign Favors back, look for the Jazz to trade Bradley, maybe packaging him with Ed Davis to help unload his contract.

let's hope we're done with Favors. He'll end up starting at the 4 and they'll be back where they were

Xiao Yao You

09-29-2020, 07:34 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/28/21492386/nba-draft-lamelo-ball-lavar-lonzo-killian-hayes-jalen-smith-zeke-nnaji-combine-maryland-arizona

If the Jazz are looking to fill the role of backup center through the draft, Smith would be a really good pick to fit into the Jazz system. He sets good screens, is a lob threat, and also offers a pick-and-pop option from the frontcourt.

If? It should be where they are looking especially if they're giving up on Bradley. Defense? Could he play some 4?

Though Nnaji has shown up in some mocks as a late first round pick, he is more likely to go in the second round. He too is a big man who has good footwork in the post and has been working significantly on his body in the offseason to compete at the NBA level, but his defense is a little suspect and he doesn’t have a perimeter game, which are likely the reasons he’ll fall into the second round.

unless he defends he doesn't sound like their guy

I'd look at a 1 after center. After that best player

Xiao Yao You

09-29-2020, 07:35 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/28/21473728/utah-jazz-predictions-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers-milwaukee-bucks-miami-heat

If they don't make serious changes and not turn back the clock with Favors than I wouldn't expect much

Xiao Yao You

09-30-2020, 04:03 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/conleys-uneven-season-ended-with-a-strong-showing-in-the-bubble/

The most welcomed surprise of the season was the free agent signing of Bogdanovic. The forward averaged a career high 20.2 PPG, 2.1 APG, and 4.1 RPG. He filled the secondary scoring void for the Jazz all season and led the NBA with two buzzer-beating go-ahead shots. Utah missed him desperately during the playoffs, but it provided an opportunity for Conley to get back on track and mesh with his new team.

defense was the problem not offense so I'm not sure how they missed Bojan deperately

If the Jazz can get the type of production they saw from Conley in the bubble in addition to the return of Bogdanovic and whoever they acquire this offseason, this is a team that has all the pieces they need to make a deep run in the playoffs.

need a PF. Don't see a deep run with what they have

Xiao Yao You

09-30-2020, 04:06 AM

https://bustingbrackets.com/2020/09/27/nba-draft-2020-5-teams-need-select-power-forward/6/

Unfortunately for the Jazz, they’re looking lean at power forward. These are the players that spent at least 70 percent of their minutes at the position, per Basketball-Reference: Royce O’Neale, Georges Niang, Jeff Green. None of those players are moving the needle much as being a primary option on a playoff team.

where's Bojan? I keep hearing he's their PF? :roll:

Vernon Carey got buckets (https://bustingbrackets.com/2019/12/31/duke-basketball-big-man-vernon-carey-nations-best-player/) during his one year at Duke, never scoring less than eight points in a single contest. He generally profiles better as a center, but he could create an imposing one-two punch in the middle with Rudy Gobert.

need a center. Have Brantley and Morgan at the 4

One of the draft’s more confounding prospects is Zeke Nnaji (https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/zeke-nnaji-1.html), who also profiles as more of a center. He impressed during his freshman year at Arizona, outplaying some of the more well-known names in Tucson. His three-point shot is projected to come along in the years, which could create a floor-spacing option at power forward when Gobert is on the court.

Xiao Yao You

09-30-2020, 07:46 PM

Sarah Todd: French draft prospect Theo Maledon said that the Utah Jazz are one of the teams that he’s spoken to (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

Xiao Yao You

09-30-2020, 08:48 PM

pg 19 from France. Not sure where he is ranked. Center should be ahead of pg especially if they are getting rid of Bradley as stupid as that is

Xiao Yao You

10-01-2020, 04:38 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/9/30/21494662/the-utah-jazz-have-interviewed-french-draft-prospect-theo-maledon-would-he-be-a-good-fit-nba-draft

The Jazz already have a lot of ball-handling players with Donovan Mitchell, Mike Conley, Joe Ingles, Jordan Clarkson and Emmanuel Mudiay, but it’s very likely that Conley will be gone after next season, there’s no telling whether or not the Jazz will be able to keep Clarkson or how long Ingles will be a reliable option and Mudiay is not good enough for the sole backup point guard minutes if the Jazz want to make a deeper run in the playoffs.

A 19 year old will be better than Mudiay? Hard to say he won't be good enough. Ideally everyone but their centers can handle the ball in Snyder's system

But, the Jazz also could be better served in the draft by putting defense first. That’s not saying that Maledon is a bad defender or that he can’t develop into a very reliable defender, but the Jazz should be looking at more lengthy defensive players who can switch through multiple positions. At 6-foot-4 Maledon is a great size at his position but doesn’t have the length, strength, or skill set (yet) to move around on the perimeter, especially if he gets switched onto a larger player.

a pg with size with Mitchell sounds good. You shouldn't be expecting him to contribute though. Should be with the Stars

Xiao Yao You

10-02-2020, 08:53 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/1/21496263/nba-mock-draft-roundup-who-might-the-utah-jazz-select

not one center. Need to look center first then pg

Xiao Yao You

10-04-2020, 07:35 AM

In 2011, the Jazz took Enes Kanter and Alec Burks with the third and 12th picks, respectively. Looking back, both players probably went a little higher than they should have, but both are still active and major contributors in the league — lasting talent identified by the Jazz.

major contributors?

Burke was a little over-hyped, but he is still in the league and has maintained pretty consistent numbers despite moving to multiple teams over his six years as a pro. There are plenty of lottery draft picks that don’t end up contributing as Burke has, and there are plenty that are quickly forgotten, but when the Mavericks recently needed a substitute player in the bubble, they didn’t hesitate turning to Burke.

they can him him! He's no Neto!

Many in Jazz nation are still not done grieving over Dante Exum, the fifth pick in 2014 who has been plagued by injury since the Jazz selected him and never was able to get the time on the floor or the consistency in his health to develop (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2019/12/23/21035978/jazz-cavaliers-trade-dante-exum-jordan-clarkson-utah-cleveland-cavs-nba) into the player his explosive athleticism suggested he could be.

sucked!

I know that above I said this wasn’t about evaluating the team’s ability to deal, and it isn’t. Lyles’ potential was so high and believed to be untapped in a way that he was enough to sweeten the deal to get Mitchell, who is the Jazz’s best draft pick of the last 20 years. That’s about identifying talent and others agreeing on the potential in that player.

Lyles is talented. Still haven't found their PF! :facepalm

Bradley could very well end up being better than Bryant, but so far this is looking like a miscalculation, especially considering how much of a contributor Hart is and that Bryant has started in more games than Bradley has played over the last three years.

They wanted Bradley. They didn't want those other guys. Sounds like they are giving up on Bradley too. They are idiots

Since the Jazz’s 2019 first-round pick was packaged in a deal to get Mike Conley, the most recent first-round pick we have to look at is Grayson Allen. He, too, was a part of the deal sent to Memphis the following year for Conley, and there is a chance that he continues to develop and turns into a reliable, regular rotational player who has a long career. I don’t see that happening, but that’s just one woman’s opinion.

He's not going to get much better. Maybe a 6th man if all goes well

To put an even finer point on it, I’d say that the Lindsey era of Jazz draft picks have been better than that of the O’Connor era, which was mostly composed of players who never lived up to their pre-draft hype. Though some of Lindsey’s selections will take a little longer to see whether they end up being worth their draft position, he has hit and hit big more than once over the last few years.

Lindsey's high picks have sucked.

This year’s 23rd pick could end up being really important to the overall construction of the team, and if Lindsey, general manager Justin Zanik and the rest of the scouting staff can find someone that contributes regularly for the next few years, it will go a long way in not only the future success of the team but also in cementing Lindsey’s reputation for making good decisions.

Lindsey is overrated.

Xiao Yao You

10-04-2020, 07:36 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/3/21498661/utah-jazz-nba-draft-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-gordon-hayward-dennis-lindsey

After four years of clashing with the coaching staff and doing nothing of particular note on the court, the Jazz shipped him off to the Orlando Magic. He’d later end up on the Dallas Mavericks’ 2011 championship roster, but he also had some off-court actions that were hard to ignore throughout his 13-year career.

He was good. Jerry didn't like him

In 2001, the Jazz selected Spanish point guard Raul Lopez, who had been compared to legendary Jazzman John Stockton. He stayed overseas for a year, missed the 2002-03 season after ACL surgery and then played just under two seasons with the Jazz before also being traded. He did fine as a backup point guard, but it was nothing over the top or overly impressive. In 2018 he was brought back to the Jazz as a coach to help out guard Ricky Rubio, but that relationship was about as long as Lopez’s playing time in Utah.

He was good too briefly. Too bad about his knees

There were numerous draft misses over the next couple years, with Curtis Borchardt as the No. 18 pick in 2002, Sasha Pavlovic taken 19th overall in 2003, Kris Humphries 14th overall in 2004 and Kirk Snyder taken 16th the same year. All four of them would become middling players at best over their careers, which started out with brief stints in Utah. The most that can be said is that Humphries will be remembered more for his three-month marriage to Kim Kardashian in 2011 than anything he did in the NBA.

all had their moments. Borchardt had injuries too.

When drafting a player, especially in the lottery, teams are really just hoping for contributors who will continue to grow and not hit an early ceiling. If you’re lucky, you get a star. If you’re really lucky, you get a superstar, but those don’t come around often. Williams was a star for the Jazz no matter what his departure from the team was like.

but he wasn't Chris Paul

If you’re going to have a draft pick not end up being a star, you at least don’t want their best years spent on the team that they’re traded to, or that they later sign with in the offseason. For example, it’s not easy for Jazz fans to watch Stevenson never rise to his potential in Utah and then go on to be a nice role player for the championship Mavs. Brewer’s best years, even though they weren’t eye-popping, were the ones he spent with the Jazz. That’s at least something.

He was good. Perfect fit with Okur

From 2007 to 2009, the Jazz’s first-round selections were Morris Almond (25th, 2007), Kosta Koufos (23rd, 2008) and Eric Maynor (20th, 2009), all of which were praised as having huge potential and were compared to some pretty elite players, but much like the first-round picks from 2002-04, none really amounted to anything, unless you factor in Almond breaking D-League records, which is of no help to an NBA team.

Koufos is good. Jerry din't like him. Maynor was as well. Injuries

The 2010 and 2011 drafts were arguably the best of the O’Connor draft era for the Jazz, which ended in 2012. The No. 9 overall pick of the 2010 draft was Gordon Hayward. Having steadily improved over the course of seven years with the Jazz before unceremoniously leaving in 2017, he was an excellent pick.

wasn't Paul George

Xiao Yao You

10-05-2020, 03:04 AM

His value can only be appreciated by teams willing to build around him, which the Jazz already have. He is valuable to the Jazz, and to no one else.
Consider the fact that Covid has changed the landscape. I think players are going to do everything they can to sign two and three year deals right now. This has implications for Gober and Conley. The Jazz may get their prices down because of this.
I like Hield, but another 6’4" guy is not what the Jazz need. I Like Grant, but the Jazz can’t afford him. I like the Jazz moving up in the draft, but what message is that to DM or RG? Still building?
I like Bradley, but the Jazz can’t go into next season with him as the backup big. And Davis is done. I think the Jazz need to figure out how to get a big the caliber of Plumlee or Olynyk. Someone with a thicker body that can hold down the post and rebound.
Is Joe Ingles ready to go back to Australia? That would give the Jazz some money to play with. Just a thought.
Also, even if the Jazz improve, the West will be so tough that the Jazz will be struggling for a playoff spot (IMO). Fun times.

Posted by templeguardtm (https://www.sbnation.com/users/templeguardtm) on Oct 4, 2020 | 5:14 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/10/4/21500521/nba-2020-possible-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-this-offseason-draft-free-agency-buddy-hield#532332577)

He's valuable to any team that doesn't have someone better which is almost no one. Hield is bigger than what they have. Bradley should be the backup. Need a starting PF. After that you can think of the rest of the team. Bradley doesn't rebound and hold down the post? Ingles should be shopped too

With Joe on the decline and Royce not a consistent offensive threat, we need Bojan even if his defense isn’t great. Not sure what else we realistically offer that Denver would want.

Posted by Korumbian (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Korumbian) on Oct 4, 2020 | 6:21 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/10/4/21500521/nba-2020-possible-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-this-offseason-draft-free-agency-buddy-hield#532333758)

except for game 7 it didn't look like they needed Bojan

I love the jazz but the FO has worked themselves into a corner.

Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Oct 4, 2020 | 8:41 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/10/4/21500521/nba-2020-possible-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-this-offseason-draft-free-agency-buddy-hield#532336444)

I see lots they can do. Rather they do it is the question. I doubt it.

Next year things could be huge, whether it be saying goodbye to Gobert or just moving things around. I think this year will be pretty quiet and I’ll be surprised if it isn’t.

Posted by TheNextGM (https://www.sbnation.com/users/TheNextGM) on Oct 4, 2020 | 9:56 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/10/4/21500521/nba-2020-possible-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-this-offseason-draft-free-agency-buddy-hield#532337228)

this is the time to do it. Next year they won't have the flexibility if they pay Mitchell and Gobert

Xiao Yao You

10-05-2020, 03:04 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/10/4/21500521/nba-2020-possible-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-this-offseason-draft-free-agency-buddy-hield

Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) could provide cap room to Sacramento (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/sacramento-kings) with Mike Conley’s (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) expiring contract, but can also give them a proven player that can play with Fox (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/295727/de-aaron-fox) while also mentoring him. By Signing Hield (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/295687/buddy-hield) Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) would get a player that would play off of Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/285727/donovan-mitchell) who would then take on the lead guard duties.

Bojan makes almost the same money. Conley for the PF they don't have

I think the answer to that question is that anyone outside of Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/285727/donovan-mitchell) and Rudy Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) is tradable on this team. And let’s be honest, there are scenarios where Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) is tradeable if the price is right. But outside of those two players, Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) should consider finding ways to upgrade their talent using all of their assets.

should be scenarios where anyoe can be traded. Good luck getting better by trading Rudy though!

Would the Jazz be willing to take a big enough risk, like trading Bogdanovic to the say the Golden State Warriors, for someone like Isaac Okoro?

doubt they get better with a rookie

The Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) cap situation isn’t set up to bring in a free agent this offseason, but a sign and trade for Grant (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246141/jerami-grant) could be the trick. Would it be worth it for Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) to trade Bogdanovic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296476/bojan-bogdanovic), who’s making 17 million, to sign Grant (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246141/jerami-grant) at something like $20 Million a year? Considering what we saw in the playoffs, it very well might be.

and Denver does this why?

Build around Donovan Mitchell and trade Rudy while his value is high.
Stay in the middle of the pack in the West or try to contend, it will be decided this off season.

Posted by AdMan59 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/AdMan59) on Oct 4, 2020 | 4:47 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/10/4/21500521/nba-2020-possible-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-this-offseason-draft-free-agency-buddy-hield#532332196)

Contend? Back to the lottery without Rudy

Xiao Yao You

10-05-2020, 03:11 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/4/21498696/utah-jazz-mailbag-free-agency-derrick-favors-paul-millsap-jae-crowder-wes-matthews-nba

First of all, Jazz Nation wants Derrick Favors back. That was never really in question, but as free agency nears, the fans yearning for Favors’ skillset is becoming more and more intense. At least half of the people who responded to me brought up Favors.

no thanks

Favors made $17.6 million this season and is on track for more. If the Jazz were to go after Favors with the mid-level exception, it wouldn’t just be a small pay cut for the the 10-year veteran. Since the MLE is likely to be less than the originally projected $9.7 million for the 2020-21 season, the Jazz would be offering less than half what Favors is set to make and to be perfectly honest, much less than he’s worth.

They need a starting PF. Have a cheap backup center that will only get better :facepalm

Millsap has been an incredibly consistent producer even as his numbers slowly decline. He’s efficient and could offer a front court perimeter threat for the Jazz. But, Millsap is 35 and will be 36 in February, which will probably be the early days of the 2020-21 season.

He should be considered depending on the price

If the 2020-21 NBA season was going to be a normal season then Crowder would be looking at a huge raise from his current $7.8 million salary. But there aren’t a lot of teams out there with money, and with the salary cap likely to stay the same or take a dip, the MLE could get Crowder back into a Jazz uniform.

please no! Front office already said they wanteed guys that defend and space the floor. Not Crowder!

If anyone, including the Utah Jazz, wants to sign Wesley Matthews it will mean that he doesn’t want to be in Milwaukee. He has a player option for next season so it’s totally up to him.

starting PF, then veteran 3rd center if Davis is traded and 2nd of 3rd vet pg/combo guard if Conley is traded. Look to move Bojan and Ingles as well. Depending on what the team looks like after all that than maybe other moves.

Xiao Yao You

10-08-2020, 07:15 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/7/21503339/utah-jazz-free-agency-aron-baynes-justin-holiday-nba-playoffs

one PF who they can't get. Try again :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

10-10-2020, 03:28 AM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/259832/Donovan-Mitchell-Says-Hes-Ready-To-Start-New-Season-Next-Month-If-I-Had-To

the roster is far from ready

Xiao Yao You

10-10-2020, 03:45 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/jazz-draft-watch-part-i-can-utah-strike-gold-with-another-non-lotto-big/

Poku will take time to develop in the NBA, but his upside is sky-high. There’s a low chance he falls as low as 23 on draft night but if he does, the Jazz should absolutely take a gamble on Poku.

sounds like someone they should try to move up to get if they can. Need a center they can start developing

Despite all the positives, there’s a reason why there’s a decent chance Smith will be available when the Jazz pick. His decision-making is often poor and he does not have great playmaking chops. He can be turnover prone (1.7/game in 2020) and struggles to read defenses. Despite these weaknesses, I think the Jazz development staff can help him read the game better and develop into a solid rotation player in the NBA. Or maybe I just have pleasant memories of other NBA bigs who wore goggles like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Horace Grant and, of course, Thurl Bailey.

they other guy sounds like a better fit though neither have the great length the Jazz are obsessed with

Xavier Tillman – Michigan State (Junior)

need a 5 or at worst a 1/combo guard

The Lakers’ size may have many teams re-thinking the recent trend toward small-ball, but there is still a lot of value in having a capable small-ball center on the roster. Tillman could fulfill that role for the Jazz and will likely be a rotation contributor in the NBA for whichever team selects him. Despite his poor shooting and finishing, Tillman’s defense and basketball IQ make him an intriguing prospect. I disagree with the big boards that have him listed in the 2nd-round and think he will be a steal if he falls anywhere near that low.

they have small ball centers. Need a 5

Despite his injury history and lack of athleticism, the Jazz could really use a stretch four like Tillie who provides great spacing on the outside and solid defense. I think most analysts are underrating Tillie’s upside.

they could but need a vet there

Unfortunately, Nnaji may lack the most vital skill for a modern NBA center; he is a poor rim protector. He only averaged 0.9 blocks per game, low for a starting center. He’s often late on rotations in help defense and late at contesting shots, which often led to goaltending calls against him. When defending smaller players, he doesnt’ always take advantage of his length and chooses poor angles for defending. Beyond his defensive weaknesses, he also had a very poor AST/TO ratio of .39. While Nnaji projects to be available for the Jazz at 23 and his offensive skills are compelling, there will likely be better options available.

no

That said, Stewart has a lot of flaws. He shot only .250 3P%. His jumper doesn’t look broken but it’s not fluid and he shows hesitation when shooting from outside. He also has a strange tic where he often needs to double tap his toe before releasing a shot. Stewart’s strength and motor can be weaknesses, he is full-steam ahead and tends to get into bully ball, which results in him getting called for the charge often. He also has poor footwork, he shuffles his feet, switches his pivot foot and sometimes leaves his feet with nowhere to go, which leads to turnovers. Finally, Stewart is a horizontal athlete who struggles vertically. He doesn’t have great vertical athleticism which leaves his game very ground bound and, ultimately, limits his ceiling. I don’t think he’s an NBA center but those who are higher on him believe he could develop the skills to compliment his natural length and power. I’ve seen some compare him to Derrick Favors, but I don’t agree with that assessment.

has the length the Jazz love

I really like Azubuike as a potential Gobert-style player. In catch-all metrics, Azubuike was one of the best NCAA players in 2020. But he’s the kind of old-school center who seems to be fading out of today’s NBA.

Rudy type length!

Xiao Yao You

10-11-2020, 04:42 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/10/10/these-draft-prospects/

Does that mean a 3-and-D wing? A center who can both protect the paint and stretch the floor? Those types certainly seem to populate most Jazz wish lists — which doesn’t mean that Lindsey couldn’t surprise us all and select a point guard or power forward if he likes someone from those positions.

should mean a center. after that a pg. They already have young guys developing everywhere else

only one guy here fits the bill. Try again

Xiao Yao You

10-11-2020, 04:52 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2020/10/10/21508866/utah-jazz-nba-trade-how-aggressive-will-the-jazz-be-this-offseason-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert

How aggressive will the Jazz be this offseason?

same as usual. Not much will change. lots of talk little action

This isn’t a rebuilding franchise any more

haven't been since Rudy ruined their tanking plans almost 6 years ago :facepalm

But for all those moves, Utah found themselves losing in the first round again. Would having Bogdanovic for that playoff run have helped? Absolutely. It likely would have been enough to get them past the first round. Beyond that, who knows.

anyone actually watch? Offense wasn't their problem

Run it back with the same core and improve on the edges: Very likely

as I said. Lots of talk little action'

There is no question that Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297107/rudy-gobert) has been one one of the driving forces, if not the driving force, that has led the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) to multiple playoff runs. He raises Utah’s (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) floor to perpetual playoff contender. Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297107/rudy-gobert) has his limitations, but his skillset of defensive anchor and P&R big will reliably win games for Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) year after year.

he's the only reason they haven't sucked

And that’s what puts the Jazz and Gobert in a tough spot. Gobert has proven his value and has shown improvement on his game every year. But there are legitimate questions about Gobert’s limitations. If a majority of Utah’s cap is dedicated to Gobert, and his specific play style, it could hamstring Utah’s chances to get over the hump and go all the way in the playoffs.

he won't be the problem. Coaching and front office will as always

Having Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297107/rudy-gobert) locked in would also mean they can feel better about keeping Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) for another run. It would be much easier to find improved bench players than it would be to find an upgrade on Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) and his contract.

They need a starting PF not bench players! :facepalm

In games 1 and 2, minus Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/300029/mike-conley), Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell) shot 61% from the field, 54% from three and scoring 43 points per game with 7.5 assists and 5 rebounds.

and Murray scored how many against them?

And it’s not the end of the world for Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) to make some of these trades, either. To win a title, Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) needs to gain every advantage they can with the players they have. There’s no marquee free agent coming to the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz), so Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) needs to do the the best they can to maximize on the talent of Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell). Could they find pieces that, though maybe not the same level as Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297107/rudy-gobert), unlock other elements of his game by spreading the floor?

welcome to the lottery without Rudy!

Trade core pieces for draft picks: Unlikely

Need vets. Had 6 rookies who didn't play and no PF and little size or D. Was a big problem

Xiao Yao You

10-12-2020, 02:50 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/11/21509674/utah-jazz-mailbag-draft-prospects-the-fans-have-their-eyes-on

no centers. Try again

Xiao Yao You

10-13-2020, 01:39 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/12/21512132/2020-nba-draft-profile-josh-green-from-arizona

Will He Still Be Around At #23?

not a center

He is ready to contribute on day one with his defense, length, and athleticism. He has an NBA ready body and can finish through contact, helped by playing Aussie rules football and rugby growing up.
He was the 3rd option on his Arizona team. But he is very capable of being a lead scorer.
He finished his last 10 games going 14/30 from 3. He can definitely shoot the ball.
After workouts I believe he will rocket up the draft board. He is too good to slide that far back.

Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Oct 12, 2020 | 2:17 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/12/21512132/2020-nba-draft-profile-josh-green-from-arizona#532603168)

only Mitchell has been close to contributing from day 1 under Snyder and he struggled out of the gate. Draft for the Stars. Get vets for the Jazz

Xiao Yao You

10-14-2020, 03:37 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/13/21513069/2020-nba-draft-player-profile-jalen-smith-utah-jazz-nba-draft

With that wingspan he is more of a 4 small ball 5. Need a center

Of course, if you keep Clarkson, we wont have a lot of passing off the bench anyway, so he can take his time to learn.
That’s the thing with Clarkson. He makes building a half decent bench a lot easier.

Posted by Big_B (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Big_B) on Oct 13, 2020 | 10:33 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/13/21513069/2020-nba-draft-player-profile-jalen-smith-utah-jazz-nba-draft#532628977)

whoever they draft shouldn't be playing and hopefully Clarkson won't be around either

Xiao Yao You

10-15-2020, 01:44 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/14/21512038/2020-nba-draft-coverage-jaden-mcdaniels-from-washington

For context on his size, McDaniels (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337630/jaden-mcdaniels) is 6’9” and 200 pounds. Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell), who doesn’t receive enough recognition for his size, came into the draft at 6’1” and about 220 pounds. McDaniels (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337630/jaden-mcdaniels) has to show a work ethic and a drive that can overcome that.

not a center!

Never say never, but McDaniels (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337630/jaden-mcdaniels) would probably not contribute to the Jazz right away. But Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) has invested in the Salt Lake City Stars for developing players just like McDaniels (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337630/jaden-mcdaniels). McDaniels (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337630/jaden-mcdaniels) would likely spend a lot of time developing with the Stars to gain better feel for the game and develop.

this should apply to everyone unless they prove otherwise

Here’s one trade suggestion that sends Bojan and #23 pick for Wiggins and the #2 pick. I don’t see why GSW would do this trade but it was suggested by a GSW fan site, so maybe it’s possible (usually fan sites are totally lopsided towards the home team).
https://bluemanhoop.com/2020/10/13/golden-state-warriors-7-trades-to-flip-no-2-overall-nba-draft-pick/4/
Wiggins is a lesser player than Bojan but he’s still good. There are lots of good options at the #2 pick. Biggest downside is Wiggin’s salary, which is very large and long.
GSW also owns MIN’s unprotected FRP next season, which will likely be a lottery pick (even if they can land a win-now player for the #1 pick).
I don’t know enough about MIN’s roster to know who would be worth trading for (Malik Beasley? Covington?) but the #1 pick is certainly valuable.
I also could see potential trades with either MIN or GSW that involve Gobert instead of Bojan. E.g., Edwards goes #1 to MIN, then GSW trades the #2 pick, Wiggins, and MIN’s future unprotected pick for Gobert (and probably another GSW FRP pick or two). UTA then selects Wiseman to replace Gobert.
And if we’re doing hypotheticals, let’s go totally whacky and trade Bojan and #23 to GSW for Wiggins and #2 and Gobert to MIN for #1 and Covington (other picks or players may have to be involved in either trade). UTA would obviously take a step back next season but could have a starting lineup of DM, Edwards, Wiggins, Covington, and Wiseman which would be entertaining (has any team ever had the #1 and #2 pick on the same team the year they were drafted?). The bench would include Conley, Ingles, O’Neale, and a MLE FA, which would be much more depth than this season. The jazz’s next 6-9 years would have a core of DM, Edwards, and Wiseman, all on reasonably affordable contracts (rookie deals and extensions) which seems like a championship foundation. There’s no guarantee either Edwards or Wiseman turn into all-stars, but both look like very good prospects.
EDIT–I forgot Covington was traded to HOU, so the above doesn’t work but I’m sure there’s another MIN player(s) to replace him with.

Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Oct 14, 2020 | 3:26 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/14/21512038/2020-nba-draft-coverage-jaden-mcdaniels-from-washington#532671039)

4 years of Wigging no thanks!!! :roll:Championship core without Rudy. You mean ping pong balls!

They really can’t afford to miss on this pick. If I was going to swing for the fences I would trade down for 2 early second round picks. Swing for the fences that Killian Tillie can stay healthy. Swing for the fences on the Juco player Jay Scrubb. Do both or get a guy that falls and swing for the fences on one of them. There might be someone that falls to 23 that is who the Jazz were hoping to get. Someone that they had rated 5-7 slots better on their big board. If so great, take that guy. This draft is not amazing for surefire star players, but I do think it is really deep. Having two chances instead of just one could really pay off.

Posted by oregonjazzfan (https://www.sbnation.com/users/oregonjazzfan) on Oct 14, 2020 | 7:26 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/14/21512038/2020-nba-draft-coverage-jaden-mcdaniels-from-washington#532678475)

can't miss? :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

10-15-2020, 02:01 AM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yxb2cdx2

This trade works. Hernangomez and Ed Davis could work too . Throw in whatever picks and non guaranteed/partial contracts to make everyone happy.

James Johnson starts at the 4. Spellman is good. He and Reid, Hernangomez, Niang, Morgan and Brantley could fight for back up minutes behind Johnson

Xiao Yao You

10-16-2020, 03:19 AM

Still, if he can demonstrate that he can rebound, defend, and shoot against NBA competition, he could be joining fellow draftee Oni on the Jazz’s roster next season.

He should be fighting for a rotation spot

An explosive athlete, Tucker impressed enough with the G League’s Wisconsin Herd to entice Jazz executive Vice President Dennis Lindsey to move on from Green and then to offer a full NBA roster guarantee in order to win the bidding war for Tucker’s services. Once he got here … well, it’s be charitable and say it was a mixed bag. While he impressed coach Quin Snyder with his aggressiveness on defense, he was slower to acclimate to the team’s motion offense, and never really did find his 3-point stroke at the NBA level (he made only 3 of 17 tries). He seems sure to get a training camp invite, but nothing’s guaranteed beyond that.

high energy defender with size and scoring ability

The second of Utah’s second-rounders last season, the Jazz signed the scoring sparkplug out of Hofstra to their other two-way deal, then primarily deployed him to the G League, with the hope that he could develop his court vision and become more of a playmaker at the NBA level, given that his physical limitations would preclude him from scoring as well against improved competition. However, while he showed he could score at the G League level (17.3 ppg, 40.3% on 3s), his passing never really took a step forward. Further, in his sparing opportunities to play with the Jazz, he demonstrated the exact shooting struggles they feared. Given their second-round investment, he could get another two-way deal, but it’s hard to envision anything more.

not hard to envision. He can score. Rather have him than Clarkson

displayed many of the same limitations that were shown years before, posting a 92 offensive rating and a 108 on defense

He only got quality minutes in 1 game! Not sure he is an NBAer but he's a good pg. Maybe a 3rd pg?

Need a starting PF! Need more size! Need more D! Need for depth. I can see all if the rookies around depending on if they fix other parts of the roster

Xiao Yao You

10-16-2020, 03:19 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/10/15/utah-jazz-have-some/

On the easy side of the ledger — Donovan Mitchell will get a maximum contract extension the moment it’s allowed. Zero question. The only issue is how many years he’ll sign for. Similarly easy — they’ll make a substantive offer to sixth-man flamethrower Jordan Clarkson. Whether he ultimately accepts is up to him, as an unrestricted free agent; but given that their cap situation is such that losing him would mean not being able to replace him, they have no motivation not to go hard in trying to retain him.
the motivation would be that he thinks he's the number 1 option. He needs to go!!! :cheers:

In the summer of 2019, the trade for Mike Conley and the free-agent signings of Bojan Bogdanovic, Ed Davis, Jeff Green and Emmanuel Mudiay were collectively thought to have given Utah unprecedented levels of experience and talent. And yet, by the end of the season, they had six rookies among their 17 signed players (15 on the NBA roster, plus two signed to two-way contracts).

and no PF! Deep! Sign Favors! :facepalm

The last of the Jazz’s trio of 2019 second-round picks immediately showed himself to be the most NBA-ready of them, and as a result was the only one to get the immediate NBA deal. Though the remaining two years of his contract contain zero guaranteed money, he is an absolute lock to be back with the team next season. No, his league numbers weren’t anything special (3.5 points, 1.7 rebounds, 36.8 3P%), he showed flashes of 3-and-D potential. The coaching staff also feels like there’s some untapped playmaking ability there. In short, if he can develop a more consistent outside stroke, he’ll be a rotation guy.

He didn't show that. He made the roster because Brantley got hurt. Brantley was first team all Gleague. Tucker and Morgan played rotation munytes. He's somewhere in the top 4 with those guys

Morgan impressed in redraft workouts, in Summer League play, in training camp, and then in the G League, enough so that he earned a promotion to the Jazz roster and even wound up in the starting lineup in the team’s first-round playoff series vs. Denver while Mike Conley was out. Though he’s a restricted free agent, it’s perhaps not hard to envision him back given that Quin Snyder seemed to trust him above fellow young big Tony Bradley late in the season. Plus, he showed flashes of 3-point capability. Then again, given that he’s pretty limited at the four spot, his return may only really make sense if Utah finds a way to move on from Bradley and/or Davis.

He didn't trust him more than Bradley! Bradley isn't a 4. Morgan played some small ball 5. His return makes lots of sense. What makes him linited? He does a lot of things and at least has the body for it unlike the the guys playing there instead of him. Thought he had a non guaranteed deal though?

Xiao Yao You

10-16-2020, 03:23 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2020/10/15/21518726/utah-jazz-hire-sergi-olivia-to-coaching-staff-sixers

Have we hired anyone
To replace Walt Perrin?
He seemed to have a very important job especially during draft time. Vice President of Player Personnel.

Posted by Matt_Grbac on Oct 15, 2020 | 7:25 PM

Do they need to? They have several GM's on staff

Xiao Yao You

10-16-2020, 03:27 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/15/21514636/2020-nba-draft-profile-aleksej-pokusevski

The Utah Jazz (https://www.slcdunk.com/) could certainly use a highly versatile two-way player to fit in at power forward. If they’re looking for an immediate contributor, Pokusevski may not be the way to go. He’s a long-term project who’s best years may not line up with the Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/285727/donovan-mitchell)/Rudy Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297108/rudy-gobert) timeline.

If they're looking for an immediate contributor they're dreaming!

All said and done he would be fantastic for a team that doesn’t need his services for a while. Let him develop and work on his body. He could be really good later on.

Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Oct 15, 2020 | 5:41 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/15/21514636/2020-nba-draft-profile-aleksej-pokusevski#532706576)

yep he's more of a 4 though. Need a 5

Xiao Yao You

10-16-2020, 06:37 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/259910/Christian-Wood-Could-Command-Full-Midlevel-In-Free-Agency

I'd think he'd get more than that. Detroit should pay more. If the Jazz can get him for that they probably should!

Xiao Yao You

10-18-2020, 02:42 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/10/17/analysis-heres-why-utah/

“It potentially allows them to re-sign Jordan Clarkson with Bird Rights, add another free agent with their full midlevel exception, use their biannual exception (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/09/12/analysis-might-utah-jazz/), and trade Ed Davis and one of their other fungible contracts for another player … all while staying below the tax,” Hollinger wrote. “For a Utah team undone in the playoffs by a severe lack of quality depth, this path has to be somewhat tempting.”

but you still have the same problems as last year!

Meanwhile, if Conley opts in, and the Jazz guarantee the salaries of Georges Niang, Miye Oni and Nigel Williams-Goss, they’ve already got roughly $118M committed. And that’s before they even get to a new deal for Clarkson … or retaining the likes of intriguing young guys like Juwan Morgan or Rayjon Tucker (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/10/15/utah-jazz-have-some/). And then we still haven’t got to the salary they’d owe their first-round draft pick, et cetera. Meanwhile, adding players via the midlevel and biannual exceptions could be another $12M or so combined on top of that.

Brantley? the all G leaguer? :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

10-18-2020, 02:46 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/10/17/21520538/2020-nba-draft-coverage-saddiq-bey-villanova

A modern 3 point wing threat

need a center than a pg!

Bey’s (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/329865/saddiq-bey) greatest strength is his immediate ability to contribute on the offensive end. He rates very highly in nearly every type of offensive play, scoring 1.099 points per possession (PPP), 96th percentile in the NCAA. His amazing shooting numbers – 45.1 percent from deep on 5.6 attempts – are fantastic, averaging 1.463 PPP on catch and shoot attempts this past season, good enough for 98th percentile. In the video above, you can see great movement off of screens and off-ball to get into good positioning, and consistent (if a bit strange-looking) form when open and when free. Even if his free throw percentage would indicate a drop in accuracy when translating to the NBA, look for him to be an excellent contributor.

Highly unlikely that he contributes immediately. Only Mitchell has been close but keep saying it anyway!

Xiao Yao You

10-19-2020, 05:11 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/18/21520580/2020-nba-draft-coverage-paul-reed-depaul

Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 next June), 6’9” with a 7’2” wingspan, 216 pounds

small ball 5. Not what they need

Xiao Yao You

10-20-2020, 01:59 AM

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2020/10/18/nba-early-championship-contender-rankings-2021-warriors/2/

no mention of Gobert or a PF. Chris Paul? :roll:

Xiao Yao You

10-20-2020, 07:30 PM

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/5-nba-trade-ideas-ben-163613460.html

Thunder trade Chris Paul to the Jazz for Mike Conley, Ed Davis and a lottery-protected first round pick
While many are trying to find ways to get Paul on the Sixers, Bucks or Lakers, it is hard to see those deals happening when you really look at the roster and how the pieces would match. Maybe the Sixers could swing it, but this deal may make more sense as it would likely vault the Jazz up into the upper echelon of the West while getting the Thunder another first round pick in their effort to collect as many of them as possible.
OKC would also get a two-way guard in Conley, who comes off the books after next season (one year before Paul). And Davis would give them another rebounder when last season they were dead-last in offensive boards. The Thunder would set themselves up to be a good team with tons of picks and cap room to spare, the ideal tool set for GM Sam Presti to build his roster with.

Thunder should be giving up the pick for getting out of that contract. No thanks!

need a PF!!!

Xiao Yao You

10-21-2020, 06:14 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/20/21525094/rudy-gobert-trade-nba-trade-rumors-minnesota-timberwolves

The main deal they talked about was the Jazz sending Gobert and the 23rd pick in this year’s NBA draft to the Minnesota Timberwolves for the first overall pick and James Johnson and Jake Layman to make the contracts work.

good luck with that! Trade the unquestionable 3rd most important person in the franchise's history. Going to be hard to get your money's worth :facepalm

Both Simmons and Lowe noted the deal would allow the Jazz to fully commit to building around Mitchell. Said Simmons: “My trade presumes the Jazz are like, ‘We hit a wall. We cannot win the title with this team and we have no way of making this team better.’”

fully committed to tanking. Might as well get a new front office and coach if you're going there again

Lowe said he hadn’t thought of trades involving Gobert for the No. 1 pick, and added “the problem” he kept having trying to construct trades for the Frenchman is leaving Utah without a starting center (Simmons noted the Jazz could select big man James Wiseman with the No. 1 pick).

they'd have Bradley and 6 rookies. Perfect for tanking. Have to trade Conley, Bojan, Davis and Ingles as well

After that discussion, Simmons and Lowe briefly spitballed a few other Gobert-centric trade ideas. Simmons proposed Gobert to the Golden State Warriors for the No. 2 pick in the draft and Andrew Wiggins, but then said, “I think (the Warriors) hang up.” Lowe said, “I don’t know. That’s a good one.”

the Jazz hang up. That would clinch the title for GS

Simmons proposed Gobert to the Indiana Pacers for Myles Turner and Aaron Holiday, but Lowe didn’t like it for the Pacers because they have big man Domantas Sabonis and are dealing with the situation the Jazz once had with both Gobert and Derrick Favors as two big men on the roster.

except Sabonis is a star that can space the floor :facepalm

Lowe said he tried to make a deal sending Gobert to the Sacramento Kings for Harrison Barnes “and a lot of other stuff,” and Simmons countered wondering if Buddy Hield could be sent to Utah instead.

I'm sure he could. Jazz are tanking so who cares who it is!

Simmons and Lowe also discussed one other significant trade idea involving the Jazz, one that Lowe said a team executive pitched to him. The proposal saw Utah send point guard Mike Conley to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose.

Griffin makes a lot of sense offensively but those injuries are scary!

Xiao Yao You

10-21-2020, 11:39 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/259962/Pelicans-Receive-Trade-Interest-In-Jrue-Holiday-From-10-Teams

he'd fit. Bojan/Ed for Holiday?

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y3265jhk

Xiao Yao You

10-22-2020, 04:59 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/21/21522976/2020-nba-draft-coverage-isaiah-stewart-washington

Physical: 19 years old (turns 20 next May), 6’9” with a 7’4” wingspan, 250 pounds

now that's more like it. A rim protector

He was talking about Danilo Gallinari, and thought he might go to the best team out there to offer him the MLE. I hadn’t thought of him as a MLE option because I thought he’d get more, but considering the market, his age, and his injury history, he probably won’t. That totally changes my top targets in FA.
My new dream scenario for this offseason:
- Draft Josh Green or Xavier Tillman
- Let Clarkson and Mudiay walk, waive NWG
- Sign Gallo to the MLE
- Try to sign Favs to the BAE, if he doesn’t agree to that, go for Baynes, Noel, or Thompson.
- Try to trade Davis into somebody’s cap space by attaching a 2nd. If that can be done, sign Juwan Morgan and Jarrell Brantley
- Get JWF on a two-way contract again along with anyone that catches the scouting team’s attention.
This leaves the roster at:
Conley
Mitchell
O’Neale
Bogdanovic
Gobert
Ingles
1st round pick (Green or Tillman hopefully)
Gallinari
Niang
Favors (or a different backup C
Bradley
Oni
Morgan
Tucker
Brantley
Wright Foreman (2-way)
? (2-way)

Posted by cchappell18 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/cchappell18) on Oct 21, 2020 | 4:30 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/21/21522976/2020-nba-draft-coverage-isaiah-stewart-washington#532895093)

offensively Gallinari fits. The D needs to get better too though

Open to Mudiay and Goss being back. At least use Goss' contract

Keep Bradley. Cheap and improving. If he's not playing trade him

Morgan already signed. Brantley should be regardless

1st round pick should be a Star not in the rotation whomever it is

Xiao Yao You

10-25-2020, 02:12 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/10/24/tribune-nba-mock-draft/

Dennis Lindsey said he’s on the lookout for anyone who can defend their position well without compromising spacing. Green has the size at 6-6, 210 to defend wings, but the quickness and agility to switch onto guards. His offense needs more work, but he’s solid at spot-up 3s.

I'd say a wing is the last place I'd look with Oni, Tucker and Brantley. Need a 5 and than a 1

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 01:50 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/25/21503122/utah-jazz-mailbag-trade-mike-conley-al-horford-jordan-clarkson-mle-derrick-favors-nba-lakers

The problem that I have with this trade is that it gets messy for the Jazz’s future. Horford is clearly on the tail end of his career, and I don’t really see a reason to have Horford in the starting lineup at this point. So, while they would get a little extra room on the financial side this season, Utah would end up paying $53.5 million over the course of the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons for an aging bench player.

why wouldn't he be in the starting lineup? The contract would be hard to take on

Q: Why are we trying so hard to keep Jordan Clarkson? I get that he played well for the Jazz this season but couldn’t we spend that money on someone who isn’t so ball dominant and iso obsessed? — Jake

someone gets it!

Here’s the thing; the Jazz can’t spend that money on someone else. They only have that money to spend on Clarkson because they have his Bird rights. They’ll probably be over the cap before even getting to Clarkson so they can’t spend that kind of money elsewhere. Signing Clarkson is a huge priority, because if he walks away the Jazz have nothing to show for it and if he stays the Jazz are basically paying him with free money.

that's the kind of thinking that gets teams in trouble. He has to go!

Personally, I think the Jazz should focus on spending the majority of the MLE, if not all of it, on a switchy wing player that can defend quicker players. I know that there are a lot of Jazz fans hoping the MLE will get used on Derrick Favors or a Favors type, but I think the Jazz can get that kind of player for cheaper and that the greater need is wing defense.

The greater need is a starting PF. Anything after that is gravy. No Favors!!!

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 01:53 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/jazz-draft-watch-part-ii-the-guards-rise/

some pg's at least but their length won't excite the Jazz

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 01:54 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/10/26/21533990/2020-nba-draft-coverage-desmond-bane-tcu-utah-jazz-prospect

lacks length

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 01:40 PM

https://www.yahoo.com/sports/five-nba-draft-lottery-trade-ideas-just-crazy-enough-to-consider-163602300.html

back to tanking yeah! :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 01:56 PM

It mentions Conley in that article but if you trade Rudy you are tanking. Need to trade Conley, Bojan, Davis and Ingles too. Need to anyway but that's beside the point. Gather picks, young players and assets and hope Mitchell or someone can carry the team someday. I'd dump the coach and Lindsey to while I was cleaning house!

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 02:28 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/260022/Hawks-Shopping-No-6-Overall-Pick-In-Hopes-Of-Improving-2021-Playoff-Chances

A package of highlited by Bojan/Ingles/Davis for Hunter or Collins and pick?

Xiao Yao You

10-27-2020, 02:42 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/tradechecker/saved_trade/7338884

Xiao Yao You

10-28-2020, 01:27 AM

https://thejnotes.com/2020/10/27/utah-jazz-case-trading-rudy-gobert/

Are you going to be able to replace that in free agency or the trade market? Maybe, but frankly, probably not.

maybe? :roll:

Gobert scores a perfectly fine 15 or so points per game over the last few years, but his offensive game is not anything like what jives with the NBA today. The Jazz were the most accurate 3-point shooting team in the league last season (38.0 percent) but attempted the 10th-most. If they could increase their attempted threes by just a few per game without sacrificing too much efficiency, it would make for a much more potent offense.

How about increasing the number of dunks by Rudy? It's the most effective shot in the league. Offense isn't their problem

Turner also has a big thing that Gobert doesn’t — A willingness to shoot the three and a halfway decent shot from range. Taking 4.0 3-pointers per game this year, Turner sank 34.4 percent of those shots.

weak on the boards. They going to get a PF to rebound? Turner was also better the season before last. Has he peaked at 24?

This is the last year of Gobert’s deal, and he’ll enter unrestricted free agency in the 2021 offseason. Given all the good things we’ve covered on Gobert here — his rim protecting, defensive anchoring, and rebounding abilities — he’s going to have some offers. These might be offers the Jazz don’t want to or can’t match.

they can match any offer. If he's smart he leaves and doesn't give them a chance to match. Not ever winning in Utah

The Jazz did blow a 3-1 lead in the first round of the postseason, but you can’t exactly fault a team for a blown performance in 2020. Times were and are tough.

They had no PF. Lacked size. Lacked versatility. Lacked depth. Had 6 rookies. A coach that refuses to make changes. A front office that refuses to make the moves needed. I can fault them plenty

Xiao Yao You

10-28-2020, 04:50 AM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/260030/Knicks-Open-To-Taking-Back-Undesirable-Contracts-For-Assets-Via-Trade

Ed Davis, Bojan, Conley and Ingles?

Xiao Yao You

10-29-2020, 04:38 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/a-jazz-era-ends-as-smith-acquires-franchise-from-the-millers/

We also don’t know exactly what this will mean for the front office’s pursestrings. There’s a popular assumption out there that an organization run by a deep-pocketed fan will result in the Jazz blowing right past the luxury tax threshold. But the tax is limiting in ways that go beyond just its effect as a spending deterrent. Tax teams have fewer spending tools at their disposal, and rates for repeat taxpayers reach unsustainable levels pretty fast. Even if a particular owner is *willing* to spend into the tax, sometimes the right strategic move is to wait. The argument could be made that the Jazz would be better served to keep their payroll bill under control while Donovan Mitchell is still on his rookie deal and Rudy Gobert is relatively cheap, so that if they need to spend later, they can do so without fear of repeater penalties.

Like extending Okur or bringing back Clarkson and Favors :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

10-29-2020, 04:48 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/10/28/21539138/history-of-the-23rd-pick-in-the-nba-draft-utah-jazz

Fresh out of high school, Stevenson played 3.5 years for the Utah Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) to begin his long NBA career. He averaged 5.9 ppg, 1.9 rpg and 1.2 apg in 16.7 min during that time. His final year he jumped to an average of over 11 points per game and was showing flashed of being a solid bench/rotation player in the league. He also came in 2nd in the Dunk Contest. The Jazz ultimately traded him to the Orlando Magic (https://www.orlandopinstripedpost.com/) for Gordan Giricek (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/21644/gordan-giricek).

too bad Jerry didn't like him

I still remember where I was the day Koufos was drafted. I was a teenager and remember being pretty annoyed at yet another Kevin O’Conner draft philosophy. Koufos played 2 years in Utah but didn’t amount to a whole lot. He eventually progressed into a serviceable big man in the NBA and had himself a respectable career. In 2010, Koufos was packaged along with 2 first round picks to acquire Al Jefferson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296456/al-jefferson) (The Conqueror!) from the Minnesota Timberwolves (https://www.canishoopus.com/). But let’s not go into the Ty Corbin years too much. Tis a scary place.

he was good. Too bad Jerry didn't think so. Let's not get into Al's years! :facepalm

Overshadowed by his fellow Dukie Jabari Parker, Rodney Hood came into the draft a little underrated in my opinion. I think most Jazz fans were pretty excited about this selection, and were justified by his career so far. He was in Utah for 4.5 years and was a consistent starter for much of that (until Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/285727/donovan-mitchell) came around). The smooth-shooting lefty averaged over 13 points during his time for the Jazz before being traded to Cleveland for Jae Crowder (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297102/jae-crowder) (and Derrick Rose (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297024/derrick-rose) for a brief moment).

should have never started. Might still be around. Too bad he went to Duke

Xiao Yao You

10-30-2020, 03:56 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/clutch-stops-highlight-goberts-incredibly-underrated-season/

It is no secret that many undervalue and overlook Gobert. Casual NBA fans are the biggest culprits. But sometimes even I catch myself second-guessing Gobert’s value. It’s easy to do. He’s a little awkward. He can’t handle the ball. He’s not an elite passer. He has no jumpshot. His stat-lines aren’t usually something that jumps off the page. Believe it or not, even on defense, there are times when Gobert looks a bit like Disney’s Bambi (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZOCU2ZzhwE). For how much value Gobert actually brings to the game, for how hard he trains, and for how much he wants to win, it is unfortunate that so many fail to see Gobert for the great player he is.

it's understandable he's not appreciate outside of Utah but here he is certainly not appreciated here either

But I failed. Gobert was and is a complete monster. Game after game, all I could find were instances where Gobert saved the Jazz. Make no mistake, while the Jazz defense fell off quite a bit this year, Gobert remains one of the best players in the game. If anything, he improved on the defensive end this year. After the longest regular season in NBA history, the Jazz won 44 of 72 games. But I quickly learned that, without Gobert’s impact on defense, Utah would have lost more than a dozen of those wins. Time after time, in the final minutes of a close game, Gobert would get switched out to guard the opposing team’s best player, one-on-one. And without fail Gobert would come through with a huge stop.

same as it's been for over 6 years. Talk about Favors, Hayward, Snyder, Lindsey, Mitchell but all we've seen is they suck without Rudy carrying the load. 3rd most important person in franchise history without a doubt

LARRY KENT ANDERSON says:
October 29, 2020 at 8:03 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/clutch-stops-highlight-goberts-incredibly-underrated-season/#comment-99511)
Again thanks for all your time and effort in these posts.I am sure both Mitchell and Gobert have talked with the brass on their contracts. Think they will settle Gobert first to see where they are. They cant give both of them max contracts. Seen a lot of posts about trading Gobert but you will not get even value from it.So hope they can keep them both. Would like to see them pick up Favors and Burks. I think Burks could be had for a favorable contract.A lot depends if Clarkston stays. Davis for sure should go. Niang, Bradley and Goss could be trade bait. I like all the young guys from the Stars.

They can certainly give both max contracts. Rather they want to give the full siper max is the question. Tank or give your best player what he wants and deserves. Why would Snyder like Burks now? Why go back to Favors in the corner when they fixed that especially when you have a young cheap option and have other needs?

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 02:46 PM

I'm thinking Bojan os the guy to trade if they can get a PF for him that stretches the floor and defends.

Jazz fans won't get over it but Hayward might have had his best overall year last year. Doubt Boston really wants to trade him and doubt they'd want Bojan.

https://basketball.realgm.com/tradechecker/saved_trade/7340437

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 03:08 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/tradechecker/saved_trade/7340447

PJ Washington looks like he might be a fit. Can shoot and pass a bit. Get Mitchell's buddy Graham. They already have Rozier and he'll be a FA after the season as will Zeller who can back up Rudy.

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 03:11 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y55d3r4f

We know they liked Porter. Only played 14 games a year ago would be the concern there

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 03:15 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y65sq9vv

Obviously Love's contract, injuries and D would be concerns

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 03:22 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y2ulgz3e

Nance might be a better fit.

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 03:25 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yxuvy2kk

Griffin would be a great fit offensively if he can stay on the court. Detroit saves some money

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:09 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/260084/Cavs-Intend-To-Hit-The-Gas-A-Little-Bit-On-Rebuild

Looks like Bojan makes some sense. They don't have a young guy at the 3 except Dante I guess either! Looks like that or a 4 should be the likely target with their latest lottery

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:14 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y397p32n

Turner might work? Could have two rim protectors. Not sure how well Turner is on the perimeter? After the way Warren played in the bubble not sure they'd want Bojan back .

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:22 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y3s7sngv

Tobias for Bojan works with extra pieces. Not sure they can afford him after this year though

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:27 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y5ny2wzn

Bryand might work? Not sure they'd want to give him up

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:32 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y2w2vjlt

Kleber? Bring Wright back to Utah

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:38 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y58wzxvz

this one could make sense

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:46 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y56vt3o6

Barnes?

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:49 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=y35druwq

Aldridge?

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:52 PM

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yxz7sbdr

another Jzz fave back for 3 hour practices?

Xiao Yao You

10-31-2020, 07:56 PM

Really like the Nance one. He could be guy? Not sure about D. He gets steals and plays with energy. Athletic. an pass hit shots and board. Works with Windler or Osman. Get Osman and I'd look to move Ingles as well for depth.

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 05:19 AM

Mudiay has now been in the system for a year and looked like he fit a whole lot better than Conley. If his minutes were to expand, then he would improve his production. Also, playing alongside the starters would take the pressure off Mudiay, which would free him up more and give him confidence.

He didn't fit better than Conley. I'd welcome him back if he's willing to take the little they have to offer. Him and Wright Forman I'd rather have as 6th men than Clarkson. I would think he could do better elsewhere in terms of money and playing time though

Of the four non-guaranteed contracts the Jazz have on their books for next season, the only one worth guaranteeing is that of 26 year old Georges Niang (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/n/niangge01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-). The 6’7″ power forward played in 66 games for the Jazz last season.

There's 5 or at least partial. I love Niang but I think Brantley and Morgan might make more sense. Need D. Would still love Niang fighting with them for the backup minutes and a vet for the end of the bench

The Utah Jazz hold only the 23rd pick in the upcoming 2020 NBA draft. This late first round pick is going to be very helpful to move the Jazz forward next year. They could take a point guard but the Jazz need to have a level of experience running their squad if they are going to move up.

should help the Stars. Best case scenario it's someone that can help them later in the year

The gaping hole in the Jazz starting lineup is at the power forward position. Royce O’Neal is currently starting in that position and is only 6’4″ which leaves the Jazz undersized at this position. The depth behind him is not that great either.

someone is paying attention. Need a vet not a pick to fill it though

He is a steady defender which seem to be the style of player the Jazz prefer. Tillie is not a shot blocker but the Jazz have Rudy Gobert for that. He has a deft passing ability and the talent to shoot from anywhere on the court.

sounds like a fit

First thing is to get a starting level PF. Bojan(and other pieces if they must) for Nance and Osman and or/Windler etc. is looking good to me right now and seems to make sense for both sides. If they get Osman I'd look to move Ingles for assets and depth. Sign Brantley and maybe Mudiay and Wright Forman. At least one other vet for the end of the bench if not Mudiay. Would like the team then

Gobert/Bradley/Davis/Brantley/Morgan/rookie

Nance/Niang/Brantley/Morgan

Mitchell/O'Neale/Osman/Brantley/Tucker/Oni/Windler?/Wright Forman

Mitchell/Conley/Mudiay(or other)

Wright Forman would have to be on a two way again if they get a pick. One more spot for two way and 3 more camp spots with 4 non guaranteed deals could have good camp battles for starting/rotation/team and two ways

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 05:19 AM

https://hoopshabit.com/2020/10/30/utah-jazz-5-offseason-roster-moves/

The Utah Jazz (https://hoopshabit.com/western-conference/utah-jazz/) signed Mike Conley, Bojan Bogdanovic and Emmanuel Mudiay in the free agency period prior to the 2019-20 season. Conley cost the Jazz Grayson Allen, Darius Bazley, Jae Crowder and Kyle Korver. Bogdanovic and Mudiay signed on as free agents.

It cost them a 1st round pick not necessarily Bazely :facepalm

Despite the roster turnover, the Jazz managed to finish sixth in the Western Conference. Prior to the hiatus they were in fourth and while they finished on the same record as both the Houston Rockets and the OKC Thunder, tiebreakers dropped them to sixth.

they tanked for 6th because their roster is so flawed

1. Re-sign Jordan Clarkson

the last thing they should do!

After trading for Jordan Clarkson (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/c/clarkjo01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-) mid-season, the Utah Jazz went on a 10-game winning streak. They then lost a single game to the New Orleans Pelicans. They then went on another four-game winning streak.

weak schedule and a new bench

What Clarkson’s impact was that he took defensive attention away from Donovan Mitchell and Bogdanovic, which allowed them to play a more expansive game. Clarkson is a flat out scorer, if you leave him alone he is going to hurt you.

and if you don't leave him alone he will shoot regardless!

The 28 year old was on a $13 million contract last season which the Jazz are not going to be in a position to match as their books currently stand. However, this is the first successful team Clarkson has played on and this may have him leaning towards signing at a lesser value.

he might have to take less. Let's hope it's elsewhere!

If the Jazz do not take up the team option of Mike Conley’s contract then they will have a greater ability to re-sign Clarkson. This brings us to our next roster move.

not a team option

The other issue is that Conley only played 47 games last season which also should not encourage the Jazz front office to exercise this option. They need a player with experience and a pass first mentality who can help generate offense.

they don't need pass first. This isn't the 80's. He's a playmaker. Size was the issue

They also risk not being able to sign Clarkson who is four years younger and is a better fit with the team. The Jazz are also needing to fill several other key backup roles which they will be able to do with the extra cap room.

Clarkson doesn't fit at all. Conly could fit off the bench but still playing big minutes

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 09:53 AM

Senegal’s national men’s basketball team coach Boniface Ndong released on Wednesday a list of 25 players for the Afrobasket qualifiers in November, with the presence of Tacko Fall (Boston) and Georges Niang (Utah) (https://sportnewsafrica.com/afrobasket-masculin-2021-tacko-fall-et-georges-niang-avec-le-senegal/).
– via Sport News Africa (https://sportnewsafrica.com/afrobasket-masculin-2021-tacko-fall-et-georges-niang-avec-le-senegal/)

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 10:38 AM

Twitter: Rudy Gobert (Utah Jazz) started following owner Mark Cuban (https://*********.com/2020/06/11/nba-player-twitter-follows/).
– via ********* (https://*********.com/2020/06/11/nba-player-twitter-follows/)

Imagine him and Donic! :cry:

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 10:44 AM

Bryan Kalbrosky: Devon Dotson had a strong workout in NYC with Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell and elite trainer Chris Brickley, per source. Utah needs a point guard with Mike Conley entering the final year of his deal and Dotson will get real consideration (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter BryanKalbrosky (https://twitter.com/BryanKalbrosky)

They have Mitchell. Be more worried about center with Gobert and Bradley free agents

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 10:47 AM

NBA 2K21: You agree with Donovan Mitchell (88) and Rudy Gobert’s (87) #2KRatings? (http://twitter.com/NBA2K/status/1319296076457803781)
– via Twitter (http://twitter.com/NBA2K/status/1319296076457803781)

Mitchell ahead of Gobert? :roll:

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 11:17 AM

About six weeks after a 13-year-old boy with autism was shot by Salt Lake City Police, the city’s first responders have partnered with two prominent members of the community to improve how they are trained in interacting with people who have sensory needs. The Salt Lake City Police Department announced Thursday that it, along with the fire department and 911 dispatch, are teaming up with Utah Jazz forward Joe Ingles and his wife Renae — whose 4-year-old son, Jacob, has autism — to institute a program aimed at “instilling understanding, acceptance, and empathy in the City’s first responders toward those who have sensory needs.” (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/15/21518283/utah-jazz-joe-ingles-salt-lake-city-police-department-kulture-city-autism)
– via Ryan McDonald @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/15/21518283/utah-jazz-joe-ingles-salt-lake-city-police-department-kulture-city-autism)

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 12:35 PM

Nothing has changed when it comes to Windler, which is at least mildly surprising after he missed his entire rookie season with a stress fracture in his lower left leg. The Cavs view him as a core piece of this rebuild and are prepared to give him a big role in 2020-21. The leaguewide view hasn’t changed either. Sources say he’s the most asked-about player in talks with other teams — even though the Cavs have no interest in dealing him. (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2020/10/what-is-cleveland-cavaliers-best-case-scenario-for-2020-nba-draft-hey-chris.html) It makes sense, too, because he’s such an easy fit and playoff-caliber squads (Golden State and San Antonio) were eyeing at him at the back of the first round before the Cavs grabbed him at No. 26.
– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2020/10/what-is-cleveland-cavaliers-best-case-scenario-for-2020-nba-draft-hey-chris.html)

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 12:40 PM

Miami’s Duncan Robinson, a fine young player, has been erased through the first two games. It reminds me of Bob Myers’ famous declaration at the 2019 Sloan Conference, wherein the Warriors team president and general manager said, “The playoffs are nothing like the regular season. They are two completely different sports.” Based on this principle, the Myers Rule is as follows: A lack of versatility is playoff vulnerability (https://theathletic.com/2112476/2020/10/03/nba-finals-thoughts-duncan-robinson-is-getting-subjected-to-the-bob-myers-rule/). The example Myers used was shooters. Specifically, how little they mattered once the Dynasty Warriors were through with them. “That two feet of space you had in the regular season is two inches (in the playoffs),” Myers said. “You watch how many cannot make a shot in the playoffs and shoot 42 percent in the regular season. You watch the playoffs; you’ll know who can play basketball.”
– via Ethan Strauss @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2112476/2020/10/03/nba-finals-thoughts-duncan-robinson-is-getting-subjected-to-the-bob-myers-rule/)

The Jazz can't play big or choose not to with their two rookies that are actually PF's. But let's keep talking about Favors, draft picks and wings! :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 01:01 PM

Rudy Gobert shared his support for Uyghur Muslims in China on Instagram Thursday. (https://kslsports.com/442976/jazz-gobert-shares-support-for-uyghur-muslims-in-china/) The Utah Jazz center is the first big name from the NBA community to speak out against the human rights violations in China since Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey shared a tweeted supporting protestors in Hong Kong last October.
– via KSL Sports (https://kslsports.com/442976/jazz-gobert-shares-support-for-uyghur-muslims-in-china/)

Gobert shared a viral post from French actor Omar Sy condemning the government in China which has been accused of detaining several hundred thousand Uyghurs and sending them to “re-education camps.” “Millions of Uyghur Muslims are detained and tortured in concentration camps in China,” The caption for the post read. “Not for what they do, but for who they are. It is the largest mass incarceration of the 21st century. It has to end. #FreeUyghurs.” (https://kslsports.com/442976/jazz-gobert-shares-support-for-uyghur-muslims-in-china/)
– via KSL Sports (https://kslsports.com/442976/jazz-gobert-shares-support-for-uyghur-muslims-in-china/)

Xiao Yao You

11-01-2020, 01:22 PM

Xiao Yao You

11-03-2020, 07:24 AM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/260101/Nets-Expected-To-Decline-Option-On-Garrett-Temple

He might make some sense. He's been mentioned before because he played for Snyder in the Gleague

Xiao Yao You

11-04-2020, 10:13 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/how-a-cap-maneuver-could-drop-conleys-2020-21-price-extend-his-stay-in-utah/

It’s simple: this maneuver allows them to reallocate some of Conley’s meaty 2020-21 salary figure to future years, while also keeping this new core together. The Jazz still don’t feel like they’ve gotten an earnest chance to see how good the roster they’ve built could be together. Conley struggled, then was hurt, then had to work his way back to starting, and by the time he had done all that, the new core had only a month or so together before it was Bojan Bogdanovic’s turn to miss time. They’d like more time to see how good the Gobert-Mitchell-Bogey-Conley core could be, especially with a smart rotation upgrade (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/) or two (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-ii-big-wings-who-can-defend-shoot/).

I think we have a pretty good idea how good it is offensively. Need to get better defensively though

Don says:
November 3, 2020 at 12:40 pm (https://saltcityhoops.com/how-a-cap-maneuver-could-drop-conleys-2020-21-price-extend-his-stay-in-utah/#comment-99514)
Could we work out an extension then sign and trade him?
No doubt Conley is a great guy and a great player, but he is a lousy fit with the Jazz.
On offense, Mitchell needs to be the PG. And on D, having both guards 6’1″ or shorter is an enormous liability. The Jazz woould be much better off with a 3&D guy, 6’4″+ running with Mitchell, and we could get that at half the price of Conley.

I think it can work. Conley needs to come off the bench. Still play him big minutes just start someone bigger. Bojan and Clarkson need to go. Need a starting PF!!!

Xiao Yao You

11-04-2020, 10:27 AM

Ryen Russillo: I’ve heard Gordon Hayward does want out, but I don’t know if he’s gonna get the money. He’s not opting out of that huge number unless he knows he’s getting the deal (https://www.theringer.com/the-bill-simmons-podcast/2020/11/3/21548501/the-nbas-murky-future-with-ryen-russillo-and-best-streaming-tv-movies-with-wesley-morris).
– via Bill Simmons, Ryen Russillo @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/the-bill-simmons-podcast/2020/11/3/21548501/the-nbas-murky-future-with-ryen-russillo-and-best-streaming-tv-movies-with-wesley-morris)

should have stayed where you had it good. Hayward for Bojan and pieces? Boston wouldn't want Bojan

Xiao Yao You

11-04-2020, 11:11 PM

Nets Daily: Vincent Goodwill of Yahoo Sports recently reported as many as 10 teams have made calls to inquire about Holiday (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter NetsDaily (https://twitter.com/NetsDaily)

Jazz better be one of them. Anything but Rudy and Mitchell!

Xiao Yao You

11-05-2020, 02:20 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/4/21549223/nba-draft-cliches-utah-jazz-age-one-and-done-college-basketball-skills

We’re talking about the difference between a 19-year-old and a 22-year-old. Spoiler alert, it’s not that big of difference.

in the NBA it is though. Look at the difference between Bradley at 19 and 22. I doubt he'll improve as much by 25

Xiao Yao You

11-05-2020, 01:02 PM

Several rival executives have pitched the Mavs as a trade destination for Rudy Gobert, (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30221719/giannis-antetokounmpo-future-all-star-trades-nba-draft-everything-else-watch-offseason) who is eligible for a supermax. I get the thinking — a rim-running center to stabilize Dallas’ shaky defense — but I can’t get there. Devoting $65 million combined to Gobert and Porzingis when the latter needs to play a good chunk at center is not optimal.
– via Zach Lowe @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30221719/giannis-antetokounmpo-future-all-star-trades-nba-draft-everything-else-watch-offseason)

Makes little sense unless you trade Porzingas which I'd do in a second. He's no Rudy

Xiao Yao You

11-05-2020, 03:17 PM

Joe Ingles: Happy birthday to my guy @TreyLyles!! No 3 hour practice for you, take the day off (https://*********.com/social/tweets/)
– via Twitter Joeingles7 (https://twitter.com/Joeingles7)

Joe! :roll:

Xiao Yao You

11-05-2020, 05:45 PM

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/260132/Pistons-Signal-Interest-In-Taking-On-Unwanted-Contracts-Attached-To-Draft-Picks

Bojan? Ed? Joe?

Xiao Yao You

11-05-2020, 08:30 PM

Salman Ali: Stephen Silas says the Rockets intend to play a lot less “predictable”: “In today’s NBA, you cannot just play one way. (https://*********.com/social/) You have to have different styles.”
– via Twitter SalmanAliNBA (https://twitter.com/SalmanAliNBA)

hope the Jazz figured that out as well

Xiao Yao You

11-06-2020, 12:36 AM

Tony Jones: The Utah Jazz have recently worked out University of Arizona shooting guard Josh Green, (https://*********.com/social/) League Sources tell The Athletic….
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

Xiao Yao You

11-06-2020, 02:34 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/5/21551158/rudy-gobert-to-the-dallas-mavericks-signing-a-nonsupermax-extension

“Do the rebuilding Bucks want Gobert?,” Lowe wrote. “They would almost certainly prefer Porzingis, but that leaves Dallas figuring out how to fit Antetokounmpo and Gobert on offense — or finding a third team for him. (There’s also the small matter of whether Dallas has much Utah would want.)”

why would anyone want Porzingas over Gobert? :facepalm

“But I’m not sure how realistic they are,” Lowe wrote. “For one, Utah will need a quality starting center back or risk imploding on defense. Several teams are wary of Gobert’s next deal.”

they are tanking without him. The defense will certainly tank as will the offense.

Xiao Yao You

11-06-2020, 05:15 AM

Evan Dammarell

@AmNotEvan

(https://twitter.com/AmNotEvan)
·18h (https://twitter.com/AmNotEvan/status/1324368111756365825)

According to Lowe, Larry Nance Jr.’s name has popped up in trade discussions across the league.

Get it done Jazz. Bojan for Nance etc. Who says no?

Xiao Yao You

11-07-2020, 08:01 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/11/6/21526965/2020-nba-draft-coverage-leandro-bolmaro-fc-barcelona-basquet

He’s played only about 12 minutes a game due to the European bias towards older, more established players, and not being the game-changing talent of Luka Doncic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/299925/luka-doncic) or even Ricky Rubio (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297093/ricky-rubio), hasn’t truly had the opportunity to truly show off his abilities.

which is the way it needs to be here. Gleague until you prove yourself and earn it

He probably should stay in the EuroLeague for further development, but I suppose there’s no time like now to get into the draft, when most teams can’t really take the time to do deep dives and in-person visits. He can coast off of the hype of potential, get drafted, and try to develop into an impactful player.

draft and stash if the Jazz were smarter enough to do such things

Best case, Leandro Bolmaro turns into Spencer Dinwiddie (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246302/spencer-dinwiddie), with maybe shades of his countryman Manu. That’s a player the Jazz have been clamoring for to complement Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/285727/donovan-mitchell), but getting to 75% of that level might take 3-4 years, which is a timeline that really doesn’t fit with Rudy Gobert (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297107/rudy-gobert) and co. And, worst case? I see Dante Exum (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246134/dante-exum) with less athleticism. That’s a pretty low floor. While it’s worth noting that Giannis Antetokounmpo (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/294573/giannis-antetokounmpo) and Manu Ginobili (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296718/manu-ginobili) had similar (though slightly better) counting stats in the Greek 2nd League and Italian 2nd League when they were drafted, for every Giannis and Manu, there’s dozens of Dragan Benders, Dante Exums, and Darko Milicics.

they should be able to wait as long as it takes. Patience has served them well with Bradley. Need proven vets and young prospects not one or the other

Xiao Yao You

11-07-2020, 08:21 PM

Tony Jones: The Utah Jazz recently worked out Jaden McDaniels, a small forward out of The university of Washington (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

Xiao Yao You

11-07-2020, 08:23 PM

not a center or pg

Xiao Yao You

11-08-2020, 01:45 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/7/21553563/refresher-ahead-nba-draft-what-utah-jazz-are-looking-for-this-offseason

To that end, the Utah Jazz have three needs that are pretty easily defined: defensive wing depth, a backup center and a potential third playmaker/point guard.

It's hard to take anyone serious if they haven't noticed the Jazz don't have a PF! They can't play big. You have to be versatile. The two teams with the best records last season played big. Sure they can match up with Denver. What about the other teams? :facepalm

They aren’t looking for a star or to make a blockbuster move, which puts them in a pretty good spot as far as teams on the rise are concerned. They have their cornerstones and a starting unit that is reliable and capable at the highest offensive levels. They just need a little more on the bench to push them into the upper echelon of the NBA.

what about defense? Size? Versatility? Depth?

It’s a little hard to imagine the Jazz taking a center with the 23rd pick in the draft. They already have a young project of a center in Tony Bradley, and it can be very difficult to guarantee success with a youthful center. Now is not the time for more projects or waiting for a couple years on a high risk, high reward player.

sounds like you and everyone has already given up on their youngest player and he and Gobert are both going to be free agents. They had rookies last year at every position but center. They aren't going to draft someone that will help them right away. They need to draft their next center. Point guard after that with the next in line already old in Goss

There’s Miye Oni, Jarrell Brantley, Rayjon Tucker and Juwan Morgan who have all shown flashes of being able to provide what the Jazz need, but they need more time on the court during the course of the regular season in order to gel with the rest of the team. In particular, it’s possible that the Jazz look in-house to fill the reserve playmaker role with Oni, who stood out during the seeding games in Orlando.

Those 4 should be in the mix. I think they could help the defense and they all can shoot to some degree. I think they would have beat Denver if they'd been used. It's why I don't see drafting a 2, 3 or 4 unless they have more than 2 picks

With the way that Lindsey phrased the needs of the team and the shortcomings that were on display during the most recent playoffs, it is very likely that the Jazz look to add an athletic defensive wing with the 23rd pick in the 2020 draft.

Draft a position where they already have 3 guys? The Stars aren't the concern here. The Jazz are

The NBA draft is usually one of the most exciting nights on the NBA calendar, but the usual pomp and circumstance will be a little short-lived this year. The turnaround time between the draft and free agency is going to go by in the blink of an eye. With the season set to begin on Dec. 22, the Jazz can’t really afford to miss on two free agent signings like they did with Ed Davis and Jeff Green.

Missed on Bojan too. They don't have a PF

Xiao Yao You

11-08-2020, 01:48 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/7/21524593/2020-nba-draft-coverage-precious-achiuwa-memphis

small ball 4. Next...

Xiao Yao You

11-08-2020, 01:49 AM

https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2020/8/20/21374098/nba-mock-draft-2020-lottery-order-timberwolves-warriors-bulls

a pg at least

Xiao Yao You

11-08-2020, 11:48 AM

https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/11/8/21554097/deal-of-the-day-wizards-jazz-tony-bradley

The Jazz acquired guard Jordan Clarkson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246165/jordan-clarkson) last December to give their bench unit some scoring punch. They were undermanned in the playoffs and basically had to let Clarkson do whatever he could once in the game. Now Clarkson is an unrestricted free agent. If they lose him they’ll be on the lookout for more bench scoring help. Of course they have other needs as well and can’t just sign unlimited FAs. Enter our main man with the bubble bounce plan, Jerome Robinson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/326935/jerome-robinson).

they didn't have to let Clarkson do that. The coach let him do it when he wouldn't let Alec Burks do it.

Bradley was the 28th pick of the 2017 draft after he surprised everyone (ME!) by leaving the University of National Champions (UNC) after his freshman year. We’re not going to talk about how he could have won back-to-back titles but he left and they were ousted by Texas A+M in the second round. Why would we talk about that?

and how much money has he made instead? How much better has he been able to get at basketball working at it everyday instead of going to class?

If Robinson can play D and they really are planning on replacing Bradley anyway maybe. Looks like Robinson's shot is improving and he passes a bit as well.

Xiao Yao You

11-09-2020, 01:59 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/8/21554486/2020-nba-draft-coverage-malachi-flynn-san-diego-state

Physical: 22 years old, 6’1” with a 6’3” wingspan, 185 pounds

at least he's a pg. They wouldn't touch that length though

The fit is pretty good here, and the team will eventually need a replacement for Jordan Clarkson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246165/jordan-clarkson) (whether this season or down the road). As a team-first player, Flynn will likely understand his role at the NBA level and should perform admirably within that role. His high basketball IQ, leadership, and motor are all things that the Jazz have historically coveted in prospects.

the length alone says he doesn't fit. Already have Wright Forman and possibly Mudiay that can replace the gunner. Need a center

Patty Mills (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296732/patty-mills), Trey Burke (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296924/trey-burke), Fred VanVleet (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/282814/fred-vanvleet), T.J. McConnell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/258006/t-j-mcconnell) with a 3-point shot

just what they need the 2nd coming of Trey! :roll:

He's not short enough
we need to get smaller

Posted by statpower (https://www.sbnation.com/users/statpower) on Nov 8, 2020 | 7:58 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/8/21554486/2020-nba-draft-coverage-malachi-flynn-san-diego-state#533399188)

exactly! :lol

Xiao Yao You

11-09-2020, 02:03 AM

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2020/11/06/boston-celtics-landing-spots-gordon-hayward/2/

Hayward is a player that they could go to as a potential second or third option on the offensive end, is a good enough playmaker, and still a good defender in the right system. Plus, there’s continuity on both sides of a potential reunion.

not sure who they give up but he might be the 5th or 6th option

Great fit but the fans could never deal with it and I'm not sure who the Celts would take. Ingles, O'Neale, Davis and non guaranteed filler maybe? Not sure I'd want to give up O'Neale for a rental and Ingles was his best pal on the team

Xiao Yao You

11-09-2020, 12:35 PM

The teams were not specified, though one source said there are two Eastern Conference teams and one from the West who are interested in sign-and-trade scenarios involving Bertans. That is along with at least three teams – the Hawks, Knicks and Suns included – expected to target Bertans early in free agency using their cap room, as NBC Sports Washington previously reported. Though the teams looking at a sign-and-trade are not known, the dots could possibly be connected to those who were interested in Bertans before the trade deadline. That list included the Celtics, Lakers and Nuggets. – via Chase Hughes @ NBC Sports

Jazz?

Xiao Yao You

11-09-2020, 02:26 PM

Shams Charania: Sources: NBA Social Justice Coalition Board: Governors: Micky Arison, Steve Ballmer, Clay Bennett, Marc Lasry, Vivek Randadive. (https://*********.com/social/) Players: Carmelo Anthony, Avery Bradley, Sterling Brown, Donovan Mitchell, Karl-Anthony Towns. Coaches: Lloyd Pierce, Doc Rivers.
– via Twitter ShamsCharania (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania)

Xiao Yao You

11-10-2020, 04:14 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/9/21554297/2020-nba-draft-coverage-immanuel-quickley-kentucky

Physical: 21 years old, 6’3” with a 6’10” wingspan, 188 pounds

another undersized shooting guard. next

Xiao Yao You

11-10-2020, 08:06 AM

Bobby Marks: Salary cap in 2021/22 Low of $112.4M and high of $120M (https://*********.com/social/) Super max extension of Giannis Antetokounmpo will range from $228M to $244M
– via Twitter BobbyMarks42 (https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42)

I guess same super max for Rudy?

CakeorDeath

11-10-2020, 03:51 PM

CakeorDeath

11-10-2020, 05:23 PM

Ignoring the reality that the Jazz are almost certainly just going to run it back on the hope that Bojan being healthy, Conley finally finding his footing, and everyone having a year of gelling together under their belts, they really have to face the reality that you need 2 superstars or a team where a guy like Bojan is the fourth best player to win the whole thing. For the small market Jazz, the first option isn’t in play; we don’t have one superstar, so two is a huge stretch. So they have to find a way to make the second option work.

IMO, there’s two ways to do that: one, use Conley’s expiring deal to try to get an All-Star level talent that is eating up cap on a team where that guy doesn’t fit, or trade one of Utah’s current stars in a package deal to try to get that first superstar. Since Mitchell is still on his rookie deal, he’s not the piece to trade and expect equal or better value. That leaves trading Gobert.

Ideally, the Pistons are sold on Christian Wood as their PF of the future, and so they are looking to shed Griffin’s deal ahead of next summer’s sparkling FA class. If that’s the case, maybe Griffin could be acquired for Conley and a pick or a prospect. If the Jazz could swing that, and then use exceptions to pick up another wing and another big, that would be a giant leap forward.

On Gobert, I’m sick of seeing proposed trades where we give him up for complete sh!t. Everyone seems to think he’s done in Utah and the Jazz will offload him for pennies on the dollar. And for the love of everything holy, if I see one more Gobert for Gordon Hayward article...

It is a long shot, but the Jazz should be calling the Sixers to see how badly they want out of Harris’s contract. If the situation with Simmons and Embiid truly isn’t great, and the Sixers REALLY have buyers remorse on Harris, I could see the Sixers doing Gobert, Conley, Niang, and a pick for Embiid and Harris. If the Jazz were then to target guys like Joe Harris or Bertans with the MLE (unlikely, but maybe they take a discount), the Jazz could surround Embiid with a roster of very good to elite shooters.

But all of this is for naught. Conley is a good guy and the Jazz won’t ship him out after one crazy odd year. They need to strike while the iron is hot (i.e. while Mitchell is still on his rookie deal) but they won’t.

Xiao Yao You

11-10-2020, 09:36 PM

Xiao Yao You

11-10-2020, 09:37 PM

If the old adage is true that a rising tide lifts all boats, the recent sale of the small-market Utah Jazz benefits teams large and small across the major leagues. Another adage also applies: The rich get richer – in this case, team owners. And a pandemic that halted live sports eight months ago and roiled the industry hasn’t really affected team prices. The Jazz, along with an arena and a couple of minor-league teams, were sold for $1.6 billion in a deal expected to be approved by the league’s other owners with little debate. Those who specialize in team valuations and sales say the Jazz price falls in line with expectations and doesn’t reflect any pandemic discount (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q).
– via Bill Shea @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q)

“I thought it was a pretty good price. I wasn’t shocked. It goes to show the resiliency and strength of the (NBA),” said Steve Greenberg, (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q) managing director of New York City-based boutique investment bank Allen & Co. where he has advised both buyers and sellers of numerous teams.
– via Bill Shea @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q)

Michael Rapkoch, who also creates team values for buyers and sellers, agreed. “The price seems fair and doesn’t reflect a COVID-19 discount. I think this is a positive for smaller market teams, and quite the accomplishment for the NBA. (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q) Ten years ago a lot of teams were sold for around $300 million. Now, that price has increased five-fold, despite the ups and downs of the U.S. economy,” said Rapkoch who is president of Addison, Texas-based Sports Value Consulting, LLC. “This is why we have been saying that sports is great for portfolio diversification.”
– via Bill Shea @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q)

While fans may not have much interest in a team’s sale price, they are definitely interested in how a new owner runs the team, his or her decision-making and hires. “(The price) does not affect how a Jazz fan feels about his or her team,” Greenberg said. “It’s quality of ownership and if they have the wherewithal to put on a first-class product on the court and run the franchise effectively and well. Does the owner of the team, irrespective of what they paid, have the ability, knowhow and wherewithal to make the right decisions and manage the team properly?” (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q)
– via Bill Shea @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2183445/2020/11/06/small-market-utah-jazz-sale-expected-to-boost-value-of-nba-teams/?fbclid=IwAR2Xe5VrorBUQGI8aIVyGvgOmnWAWynXSpg2GTDv XUg6o83H6j_9SP5dC1Q)

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 01:26 AM

Rick Bonnell: Sounds like the Pelicans are looking for a third team to facilitate a Jrue Holiday trade (where Holiday gets to a contender). (https://*********.com/social/) I wonder if the Hornets would make any sense for that.
– via Twitter rick_bonnell (https://twitter.com/rick_bonnell)

get it done!

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 08:17 AM

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/11/10/analysis-nba-owners/

If Mike Conley opts in to the final year of his deal (super likely), and the Jazz guarantee the salaries of Georges Niang (very likely), Miye Oni (pretty much definitely) and Nigel Williams-Goss (rather more dubious), they’ve already got roughly $118 million committed in salary. And that’s not even counting a new deal for Clarkson … or retaining the likes of intriguing young guys like Juwan Morgan or Rayjon Tucker. They’ll also owe a salary to their first-round draft pick (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2020/10/24/tribune-nba-mock-draft/).

when are the guarantee dates on these guys? Niang is before the draft I believe so you probably have to keep him. I'd ideally want to keep the others except probably Goss will have to go. Those guys should be in the mix for the rotation. They can improve the defense without killing the offense. Goodbye Clarkson!

No mention of Brantley who they should sign. He should be in the mix for the rotation. Forman Wright would probably have to be on a two way deal again. You carry 6 rookies on a supposedly contending team you better plan on keeping most of them around or what was the point to begin with? Mudiay I'd welcome back in the same role. Got to think he can do better though

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 08:21 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/10/21558825/the-nbas-new-start-date-and-financial-changes-utah-jazz-what-it-means

The Jazz left the NBA bubble after their Game 7 loss to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs on Sept. 2. So in terms of scheduling, the Jazz are looking at an offseason turnaround (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/31/21541144/nba-utah-jazz-free-agency-draft-revenue-salary-cap-trade) of 110 days between their last game and the beginning of the 2020-21 season. For comparison, the 2019 Finals ended 132 days before the beginning of the 2019-20 season.

let's not forget the longest off season after their shortest season before the restart and no travel in the bubble

In terms of the financial agreements, the proportionally reduced tax costs could give newly minted Jazz owner Ryan Smith (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/28/21538379/gail-miller-utah-jazz-ryan-smith-sale-larry-miller-qualtrics-vivint-smart-home-arena-salt-lake-bees) some peace of mind in his first season at the helm. Even if the Jazz were to go over the tax threshold for the 2020-21 season, it most likely wouldn’t be by much, and with revenue expected to dip, Smith would be able to avoid lofty luxury tax costs.

nothing wrong in paying tax as long as it makes sense. It didn't last time and it wouldn't to bring Clarkson back!

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 08:24 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/10/21554773/2020-nba-draft-coverage-tyrese-maxey-kentucky-utah-jazz-draft-prostpect-evaluation

Physical: 20 years old (turned 20 this month), 6’3” with a 6’6” wingspan, 198 pounds

Wingspan on the shorter side. Need a center first

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 08:30 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/10/21557084/2020-nba-draft-coverage-three-sleepers-to-keep-an-eye-on-utah-jazz-draft-targets-second-round-pick

Height: 6-8
Weight: 250 lbs.
Wingspan: 7-1

Need a center and pg/combo guard. Next...

Ty-Shon Alexander (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/292686/ty-shon-alexander?_ga=2.156540987.1088808569.1605097407-247621959.1589286792)Age: 22
Position: PG/SG
Height: 6-4
Weight: 195
Wingspan: 6-8

He might work. No the longest but decent

Ty-Shon Alexander draws that same criticism that many sleepers do. He is too small. He plays like a wing, but in a league dominated by big wings like LeBron James (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296663/lebron-james), Kevin Durant (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297048/kevin-durant), and Kawhi Leonard (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296747/kawhi-leonard), he may be too small to play that position. This means he projects as a guard in the NBA, and that raises the question of whether he has the scoring and creating chops to really carve out a role for himself. Alexander showed a tendency to make poor decisions at times in college play. He was turnover prone and had questionable shot selection. NBA teams will wonder if he can improve in those areas, because if he can’t, he could have a hard time finding rotation minutes.

doesn't sound like a pg. Next

Height: 6-10
Weight: 220
Wingspan: 6-11

need center. Next

I love Tillie as someone we buy into the 2nd round to pick up. He’d be perfect in Georges Niangs current role and if he can stay healthy a potential steal and regular rotation piece.

Posted by bwightman84 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/bwightman84) on Nov 10, 2020 | 4:16 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/10/21557084/2020-nba-draft-coverage-three-sleepers-to-keep-an-eye-on-utah-jazz-draft-targets-second-round-pick#533440033)

Already have Morgan and Brantley that should be competing for Niang's minutes. That's why I say center where they have no one now that Bradley has become a rotation player and pf where Goss is already fairly old

Daniel Oturu
In his Sophmore season, 20pts 11reb 2.5blk per game. 56/36/70 for a big guy is amazing. Can knock down the 3 or take it to the rack. Good at running the floor. Strong.
Devon Dotson
Another smaller guy. His speed is mesmerizing. I don’t think anyone can hang with his first step. Blows right by you. Good defender. Gets a lot of steals.
Good shooter % wasn’t there last season. Good distributor.

Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Nov 10, 2020 | 8:07 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/10/21557084/2020-nba-draft-coverage-three-sleepers-to-keep-an-eye-on-utah-jazz-draft-targets-second-round-pick#533443030)

what is their length. Jazz are onsessed with it so don't even wate your time if they don't have it

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 08:36 AM

Now if they've already made decisions not to keep their 6 rookies from a year ago than I'd say best player available though with Gobert and Bradley free agents center still makes the most sense

Xiao Yao You

11-11-2020, 04:35 PM

Eric Walden: Iowa State star Tyrese Halliburton said that Jazz PF and ex-Cyclone Georges Niang is a “really close friend of mine. We talk all the time. I’m surprised he hasn’t FaceTimed me today! We FaceTime every day. He’ll call me to talk about nonsense.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Xiao Yao You

11-12-2020, 03:09 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/previewing-the-utah-jazzs-decisions-in-an-abbreviated-off-season/

Rayjon Tucker $1.5 million2 (https://saltcityhoops.com/previewing-the-utah-jazzs-decisions-in-an-abbreviated-off-season/#note-2)

so Tucker does have a partial guarantee

The Jazz hold Clarkson’s Bird rights, which gives them the option to exceed the cap to re-sign him to any number up to the max salary. Conversely, they don’t hold Bird rights for Mudiay, so they most they could sign him for is a contract starting at 120% of his minimum salary figure, unless they use one of the salary cap exceptions to re-sign him. The other two (Brantley and Wright-Foreman) will be restricted free agents as long as the Jazz present them with the qualifying offer of a standard two-way contract. If they do, the Jazz can match another team’s offer to retain them.

So they can use an exception on Mudiay. That might make sense depending on what else they do

“The Jazz are for sure hopeful for two rookies who will be second-year players: Juwan Morgan and Miye Oni,” Jones wrote last week (https://theathletic.com/2182716/2020/11/06/jazz-2020-21-season-restart-how-it-helps-and-how-it-hurts-the-jazz/). He also added that the Jazz “really like” the popular Brantley as well as Tucker. Let’s assume the Jazz bring all four back; this only leaves room for three more additions to the roster. The Jazz have made no secret that they would also like to bring back Clarkson, but market value in a free agency class without a lot of high-end shooting guard options (https://theathletic.com/2166244/2020/11/03/nba-free-agency-shooting-guard-rankings-bogdan-bogdanovic-deanthony-melton-on-top/) could make that challenging. If they re-sign, they’re down to just two roster spots left to fill.

Makes sense except for Clarkson who needs to go!

After the Jazz ended their season in August, Dennis Lindsey made it clear what type of player the Jazz would be targeting in free agency. “Anybody who has defensive integrity at their position, can be an active, athletic defender, will be someone that would be of interest to us,” he explained, “especially if they don’t compromise the spacing.” Since their main tool to add such a player would be the Mid-Level Exception, they may use it on a big wing who could bring back some of that defensive integrity, or to help shore up the big man rotation behind All-NBA center Gobert.

unless they get a starting PF they won't be able to play big so who cares!:coleman:

Here are a few names to keep an eye on that would probably fit into one of the exceptions: Derrick Jones Jr., Dario Saric, Juancho Hernangomez, Jae Crowder, Josh Jackson, Kent Bazemore, Moe Harkless, Harry Giles, Serge Ibaka, Wesley Iwundu and Sterling Brown.

look like 4's not wings?

Alternatively, the Jazz could make a trade to help improve the team, though their assets are limited. The most likely player to be traded is Davis, who fell from the rotation last year and doesn’t seem to fit in Utah’s plans. If the Jazz could find a new home for their backup center, it would free up $5 million in cap space and help them avoid the luxury tax. The open roster spot would be another added bonus.

but you give up assets. I'd shop everyone but Rudy, Mitchell and O'Neale. Bojan for a starting 4 would be my main goal though!

Rumors of a Derrick Favors reunion surfaced over the past few months, a popular idea among Jazz fans. Once again, how the Jazz fit him into the cap is the question. Davis would certainly need to be traded and maybe even Bradley. They could use the MLE, but that means they only have the bi-annual or a trade to help improve their defensive integrity elsewhere. The Jazz would jump at the chance to sign Favors to the Bi-Annual Exception, but unless the market dries up on him, that appears unlikely.

stupid to bench Bradley. He needs to play somewhere. Stupid to spend money on something when you have bigger needs elsewhere too but it it the Jazz and fans who apparently never actually watch them play

If the Jazz’s cap situation stays the same, meaning they don’t trade away any salaries and pick up the team option on the four young players, their total salaries before signing other players is $122 million. The luxury tax threshold will be set just above $132 million. If the Jazz re-sign Clarkson and use the MLE without offloading salary, it will be tough to dodge the luxury tax. New Jazz majority owner Ryan Smith may be more willing to pay the tax than his predecessors were, but the question of whether to venture into the tax should come down to whether this team has a chance for a deep playoff run.

this is exactly the situation where you don't want to pay tax. They aren't going anywhere without fixing their roster. Clarkson certainly needs to go!

Xiao Yao You

11-12-2020, 03:15 AM

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2020/11/10/nba-offseason-trade-proposals-jrue-holiday/2/

Rather than overpaying the Davis Bertans/Kentavious Caldwell-Pope types in a weak crop of free-agents, Atlanta uses its cap-room to bring in an All-NBA center in Gobert and an excellent offensive player in Bogdanovic, spending two valuable but non-elite assets to do so.

and why do the Jazz want no elite assets? Looks like Hunter has potential shooting wise but doesn't bring much else. I'd want their other young 4.

Utah makes the Gobert decision early here, cutting the cord with him and acquiring somewhat of a passable facsimile in Capela. Even with this major step back, the Jazz would still figure to be competitive in the Western Conference, while also managing to more aptly align the roster with Donovan Mitchell’s timeline.

Utah makes the Gobert decision early here, cutting the cord with him and acquiring somewhat of a passable facsimile in Capela. Even with this major step back, the Jazz would still figure to be competitive in the Western Conference, while also managing to more aptly align the roster with Donovan Mitchell’s timeline.

they wouldn't be competitive. If you trade Rudy you need to trade. Bojan. Conley, Davis and Ingles. It's tank time again

Xiao Yao You

11-12-2020, 02:06 PM

Eric Walden: French point guard Theo Maledon says he interviewed with the Jazz’s front office via Zoom, (https://*********.com/social/) and then spoke afterward with the team’s sports psychologist. Said he feels like playing alongside a fellow Frenchman like Rudy Gobert would help his transition to the NBA.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Jeff McDonald: French point guard Theo Maldon says the Spurs are one of four teams for whom he has conducted a pre-draft workout. Brooklyn, Boston and Toronto are the others (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter JMcDonald_SAEN (https://twitter.com/JMcDonald_SAEN)

Xiao Yao You

11-12-2020, 03:49 PM

Chris Haynes: Yahoo Sources: Utah Jazz guard Mike Conley Jr. will bypass free-agency next week by not exercising “early termination option” on his $34.5 million salary for the 2020-21 season. – via Twitter ChrisBHaynes

big surprise!

Xiao Yao You

11-12-2020, 04:19 PM

Chase Hughes: Tyrese Maxey has only had one workout so far and it was with the Pelicans. He’s interviewed with many other teams including the Jazz, Magic and Spurs (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter ChaseHughesNBCS (https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS)

Xiao Yao You

11-13-2020, 03:01 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/jazz-draft-watch-part-iii-wings-on-the-run/

no centers or pg's :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

11-13-2020, 03:11 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/11/12/21561855/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-josh-green-23rd-nba

Tyrell Terry (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337687/tyrell-terry?_ga=2.130190671.192144393.1605250987-247621959.1589286792), who seems to have risen on multiple draft boards, was available at 23. That was the other player I thought about taking. Because the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) already have lead guards in Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell) and Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley), and the Jazz (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) need the ball in Mitchell’s (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell) hands more, I decided to pass. It is a sign that Terry (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337687/tyrell-terry) might have the widest possible variance in the draft.

You shouldn't be thinking about what vets they already have. A rookie should be in the gleague at least to start the year. Goss will probably be gone and he's older already either way. Wright Forman is a 2 guard. Need to start developing someone. Conley could be gone by next season. Need to start developing a center even more!!!

Green (https://www.sbnation.com/college-basketball/players/337469/josh-green) is the perfect pick for Utah (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/teams/utah-jazz) because he’s a player with upside that also fills a specific need and role.

terrible pick because they already have Oni, Brantley and Tucker poised to push for rotation minutes on the wing

And that’s what makes this pick exciting. Like I mentioned, Green is only 19 and shows a developing dribble drive game. He can get to the rim and has shown decent touch. His 2.6 assists a game show a player that can make the right play.

He is a lot younger than those guys so it would make sense if they didn't have bigger needs at the 5 and 1 in that order

Sounds like the Jazz have been pretty open in expressing interest in him too.
My dream draft scenario: Pick Josh Green at 23. Trade cash and/or a future second to get into the early second round and pick Xavier Tillman.

Posted by cchappell18 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/cchappell18) on Nov 12, 2020 | 11:40 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2020/11/12/21561855/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-josh-green-23rd-nba#533478004)

probably not there guy if they are openly expressing anything. Tillman also not what they need with Morgan and Brantley

Xiao Yao You

11-13-2020, 04:19 PM

Sarah Todd: Jazz evp Dennis Lindsey said they haven’t ruled out all draft day scenarios i.e. pick at 23, trade up, move back, trade out of the draft etc. (https://*********.com/social/) All is on the table
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

Obviously. I know they draft in tiers. If there isn't a center in the tier they draft in they need to move up or back if possible and if not than pg and the same scenario. Might be better off with a 2nd round pick they can stash or put on a two way contract than another guaranteed one with 6 rookies from last year still anyway

Ben Anderson: Dennis Lindsey indicated the @UtahJazz haven’t used all of their predraft workouts yet (they get 10.) (https://*********.com/social/) Said they were saving some in case they got a late opportunity to workout someone unexpected.
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

Xiao Yao You

11-14-2020, 02:05 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/13/21563854/utah-jazz-nba-draft-dennis-lindsey-justin-zanik

After being walloped by sharp-shooting juggernauts year after year in the playoffs — most notably the Golden State Warriors and then the Houston Rockets in back-to-back seasons — the Jazz purposefully sacrificed some of their defensive players in order to punch back offensively.

after giving up what they had for Rubio ad Favors in the corner to begin with! :facepalm

“Sometimes that’s a guy that needs some time and has potential,” he said. “But you can also come by where the best player available is a guy that can maybe get on the floor at the beginning of the year.”

and you've yet to find that guy. This year camp opens 2 weeks after the draft. No Summer league or months to develop the pick. He should be considered a Gleaguer until he proves otherwise assuming there is a gleague

On top of everything else, they’ve also had to contend with a draft process that is unlike anything they’ve ever dealt with. Where they usually would have been able to schmooze with agents and players with unlimited opportunities to see prospects work out in singular or competitive settings, they’ve been relegated to watching tape from international or college games and deliberately choosing who they are going to work out in person since the league is only allowing each team 10 in-person meetings with prospects.

an they've always said the workouts were a small part of their decisions. I think they are full of it but...

Xiao Yao You

11-14-2020, 02:08 AM

https://basketball.realgm.com/analysis/260203/2020-NBA-Draft-Preview-Needs-And-Priorities-For-All-30-Teams

Utah Jazz
Pick: 23
Needs: The Jazz need someone with some size. Tony Bradley played better behind Rudy Gobert, but Utah still doesn’t have a real four on the roster. It would be good if they could get a big with some range, and one that could allow them to play small if necessary. Given some limited cap flexibility, it’s important to get someone who can play with this pick for Dennis Lindsey.

Brantley and Morgan are real 4's. They need a center. All 3 centers will be free agents. None of their 6 rookies is a real center. They can already play small and really small. Playing big is the problem. They aren't getting anyone that should play. He might but he shouldn't at least until later in the year

Xiao Yao You

11-14-2020, 02:10 AM

https://fansided.com/2020/11/12/nba-offseason-2020-trade-destinations-chris-paul/2/

Jazz should be getting the picks for taking on that contract. It would be an upgrade but they need to get bigger not smaller. Next...

Xiao Yao You

11-14-2020, 08:46 PM

Former Ohio State center and 11-year NBA veteran Kosta Koufos is looking to return to the NBA after a year overseas, (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2020/11/kosta-koufos-former-ohio-state-buckeye-and-glenoak-star-looking-to-make-nba-comeback.html) league sources tell cleveland.com.
– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2020/11/kosta-koufos-former-ohio-state-buckeye-and-glenoak-star-looking-to-make-nba-comeback.html)

He's be a nice pickup if they got rid of Davis somehow

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 03:30 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/14/21563859/5-prospects-the-jazz-should-consider-with-23rd-pick-in-the-draft

Bey seems to fit the mold of a wing/small forward in the NBA and his most impressive attributes are on the defensive side of the ball. Standing 6-foot-7, Bey has a 7-foot-1 wingspan and he uses every bit of it to block shots on the perimeter, close out on shooters, grab steals and all around disrupt when he’s on the floor.

need a 5!

Overall, I think this is exactly the type of player the Jazz could use and he could get into the rotation right away.

I know you are new here but no one they have drafted since Snyder came here was ready for the rotation right away and that was with a summer league and full off-season to prepare them

A lot of what can be said about Bey can be said about Woodard. He has a 7-foot-1 wingspan, showed incredible improvement from the 3-point line, averaging 2.3 attempts last season and hitting 42.9%, and plays excellent team defense.

need a 5

Reed is an NBA power forward, which doesn’t exactly fit the need of a wing defender for the Jazz, but Utah is also lacking in size and bench rim protection. Reed has a power forward frame with a center’s reach (7-foot-2 wingspan) and is a blocking and rebounding monster who relishes in being able to deny someone when they think they’re in close range.

not a 5!

Desmond Bane, TCU, 6-foot-6

not a 5

Xavier Tillman, Michigan State, 6-foot-8

not a 5

McDaniels is one of the players who is described as having a ton of upside and potential but is still raw and needs to develop. I get that the Jazz trust their development system and aren’t afraid of drafting someone who needs some time, but they already have players they’re spending time on. They already have projects in the works. I think they’re better off picking someone who can help them win in the immediate future rather than someone who might not pan out.

need to pick the 5 who will be the best player now or later. Trades and free agency are for now. The draft is for the Stars and later :facepalm

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 03:36 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/14/21564833/2020-nba-draft-coverage-theo-maledon-asvel-france-utah-jazz-draft-prospect-scouting

Measurements (https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https://www.nba.com/stats/draft/combine-anthro/?sort=BODY_FAT_PCT&dir=-1&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2020/11/14/21564833/2020-nba-draft-coverage-theo-maledon-asvel-france-utah-jazz-draft-prospect-scouting&xcust=___sb__e_21328874__r_slcdunk.com__t_w__d_D): 19 years old, 6’5” with a 6’8.75” wingspan, 187 pounds, 2.8% body fat

decent length and a big pg which would be nice with Donovan. Need a 5 more though

The Jazz are currently stacked at the lead guard position, with Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley), Donovan Mitchell (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/298013/donovan-mitchell), and likely Jordan Clarkson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246165/jordan-clarkson) all on the roster. Although, Clarkson is a free agent currently, and Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297144/mike-conley) will be a free agent next off-season, so these spots are not by any means guaranteed in the long run. If the Jazz plan to let Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/300029/mike-conley) go after his contract expires, or if they would like a third point guard, Maledon could make sense. If he was drafted by the Jazz, don’t expect him to play big minutes during his rookie season. As Emmanuel Mudiay (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/257489/emmanuel-mudiay) can attest, there just won’t be enough minutes for another ball dominant guard on this current Jazz roster.

Having Clarkson is not what I'd call stacked. Conley is in the last year of his deal and Clarkson will hopefully be gone. Mudiay could be as well. After that they have Goss and Justin Wright who is more of a 2 like Clarkson. So this is their biggest need in the draft after a center. I don't expect any of them to play for the Jazz because unlike every one else apparently I actually pay attention to the team.

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 07:59 AM

Collins is young, athletic and offensively awesome, but he’s not quite a max guy. You’ll occasionally hear scuttlebutt that the Hawks aren’t totally sold on him, and if he’s looking for a max extension, I think Atlanta is certainly better off waiting. (https://theathletic.com/2194510/2020/11/13/contract-extensions-what-bam-tatum-fox-and-rest-of-class-of-2017-are-worth/) The Hawks still can match any offer a year from now, or go out to a fifth year if he plays so well that he becomes max-worthy.
– via John Hollinger @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2194510/2020/11/13/contract-extensions-what-bam-tatum-fox-and-rest-of-class-of-2017-are-worth/)

they want Bojan?

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 11:45 AM

https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-free-agency-ranking-the-top-25-players-this-offseason-224700176.html

Has none of these guys going to the Jqzz. I don't think the Jazz necessarily need free agents. They do need a starting 4 though and there are a few on this list

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 11:48 AM

Adrian Wojnarowski: Trade season begins Monday afternoon, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN. Teams were informed the NBA’s moratorium will end at noon ET and deals can begin to be consummated.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Tim Reynolds: Most NBA player/team option decisions have to be made Thursday by 3pm ET, (https://*********.com/social/) source tells AP.
– via Twitter ByTimReynolds (https://twitter.com/ByTimReynolds)

Adrian Wojnarowski: The NBA and NBPA have agreed that each side will have the right to terminate the Collective Bargaining Agreement following the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 seasons, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN. There was already a mutual option to terminate following 2022-2023 season.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Adrian Wojnarowski: Tentative schedule December 22: Opening night. All-Star Break (minus an ASG): March 5-10 (https://*********.com/social/) May 16: Regular season ends May 17-to-21: Play-in tournament for 7-to-10 seeds. May 22: First-round playoffs June 7: Conference semifinals June 22: Conference Finals July 8-22: NBA Finals
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Adrian Wojnarowski: Sources: $109.1M salary cap and $132.6M luxury tax for 2020-2021 season. Same as last season (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Adrian Wojnarowski: Sources: Projected future salary cap and tax. 2021-2022: $112.M and $136.6M; (https://*********.com/social/) 2022-2023: $115.7M and $140M and 2023-2024: $119.2M and $144.9M
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 11:50 AM

Let the fun begin! So have to decide on Niang by Thursday? If they want to throw his non guarantee into a deal now is the time!

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 12:40 PM

Bobby Marks: Last day for a player to sign a super max and rookie extension is Dec. 21 (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter BobbyMarks42 (https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42)

So Rudy could go on the block after that? :(

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 12:44 PM

Tim Reynolds: Trade exceptions that were due to expire in July will now expire Nov. 23 or 24 in almost all cases, (https://*********.com/social/) source tells AP.
– via Twitter ByTimReynolds (https://twitter.com/ByTimReynolds)

I think the Jazz have a couple?

Xiao Yao You

11-15-2020, 04:07 PM

Adrian Wojnarowski: Utah’s Zach Guthrie has agreed to join Dallas’ coaching staff as an assistant, (https://*********.com/social/) source tells ESPN. He will replace Stephen Silas on Rick Carlisle’s staff.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

They lose their strategy coach or whatever they call him. One of the new guys did the same thing for his old team so I guess he steps in to that role? A lot of changes to the staff this off season

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 12:10 AM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/15/21565586/5-free-agent-targets-utah-jazz-to-consider

Who the Jazz target on the free-agent market could largely be determined by their selection in the draft. For example, if they choose to take a bigger post player in the draft, it could lead to them targeting wings in free agency, or vice versa.

they should have nothing to do with each other

Coming off a $5.4 million contract with the Phoenix Suns and a 2019-20 season which was the best of his career, Aron Baynes is a player that is popularly discussed by Jazz fans as a free-agent target and one that I’ve written about before (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/10/7/21503339/utah-jazz-free-agency-aron-baynes-justin-holiday-nba-playoffs), for good reason.

and what good reason is that? Is he a starting PF? Next

The Jazz front office is fully aware of their defensive deficiencies and know that they need to beef things up. Once Rudy Gobert steps off the court, there is a precipitous decline and lackluster rim defense. Baynes can help there and then also add the element of being a stretch five, the type of player not currently on the Jazz roster.

they have bigger issues and Bradley is potentially a stretch 5 and only going to get better and best of all he's cheap so they can spend money on greater needs

If the Jazz are able to sign Baynes, it would be a huge boon for the team and would immediately calm concerns about the bench going forward.

My concerns are starting 4, size, versatility, defense and depth. I like Baynes and if they can get him while answeing bigger needs great

Like I said, he wasn’t used a lot by the Raptors, and has yet to prove himself much, but the 27-year-old’s per-36 numbers from 2019-20 are super impressive; 18.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 2.7 blocks, and he’s not afraid to shoot from deep. He’d be a little bit of a risky option but so was Ed Davis, and at least Boucher is young and still improving and a super-low risk financially.

only thing risky about Davis was that they needed a 4 not a 5 and it was costly. Boucer can't shoot. Next

At first glance, this might be a signing that doesn’t make a ton of sense for the Jazz. Galloway is a 6-foot-1 guard who plays a lot of point. But the Jazz are also in need of someone who can speed around screens and fit the prototype of a 3-and-D wing. Galloway can give you that. He’s very quietly becoming a scrappy player that is as tough of a cover as he is a defender.

another small guard? Next

Harris is exactly the type of player the Jazz would love to have and is one of the best shooters in the league. While he isn’t the best defensively, he absolutely competes and has been known to stop a few people when it really counts.

offense isn't there problem. Next

It’s likely that the Jazz are going to let Emmanuel Mudiay walk in free agency. With that in mind, Harrison, who can handle the ball, run point, and play shooting guard (hitting 38% from beyond the arc) could be a really cheap answer to fill in the gaps on the lower end of the bench while still offering some upside.

Why is it likely? I'd think Mudiay would walk but if he wants to come back in the same role as last year at the right price I'd welcome him back. Certainly rather have him than Clarkson

This looks like a good pick up assuming they get a starting 4 first!

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 12:13 AM

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2020/11/14/nba-trade-target-draft-week-offseason-oladipo/29/

I’m not sure where Utah will rank amongst contenders in the Western Conference next season (and a lot of that will depend on the continued development of Donovan Mitchell), but adding shooting and frontcourt depth is never a bad option in the offseason.

Having a starting PF is a great idea too!

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 04:55 AM

Chris Haynes: Chicago Bulls forward Otto Porter Jr. is opting into his $28.4 million player option for the 2020-21 season, (https://*********.com/social/) league sources tell Yahoo Sports.
– via Twitter ChrisBHaynes (https://twitter.com/ChrisBHaynes)

for Bojan and change?

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 02:03 PM

Ian Begley: Arizona’s Zeke Nnaji says he’s worked out in person for the Heat, Jazz, Nuggets and Clippers, (https://*********.com/social/) among other teams.
– via Twitter IanBegley (https://twitter.com/IanBegley)

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 02:04 PM

4. Next

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 02:37 PM

Ian Begley: Arizona’s Nico Mannion says he’s had a Zoom interview with Brooklyn. No in-person workout for BKN or NYK. Mannion said the Raptors, Lakers and Jazz are among the teams he’s had in-person workouts with (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter IanBegley (https://twitter.com/IanBegley)

hope he's better than his dad at least

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 02:39 PM

dino arms. Next

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 02:40 PM

Eric Walden: Zeke Nnaji isn’t lacking for confidence. Asked what his expectations are for this coming season, he replied (seriously): “My expectation is to win Rookie of the Year. (https://*********.com/social/) People have always been underestimating me. I have a chip on my shoulder, and I’m eager to prove people wrong.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 03:01 PM

Eric Walden: Arizona’s Josh Green confirms he worked out for the Utah Jazz last week. Says he spoke with Joe Ingles around the time of the workout to get a sense of the org. (https://*********.com/social/) After going out to dinner with front office, he came away impressed with the structure of the organization.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 03:53 PM

Eric Walden: Washington’s Jaden McDaniels had a Zoom interview with the Jazz but no workout. (https://*********.com/social/) Said he loves the team’s history of player development, wants to utilize that, expects he will spend time in the G League. Looks up to Rudy Gobert as a guy who went thru the G League to become a star.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 03:56 PM

not a 5

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 07:08 PM

Adrian Wojnarowski: Milwaukee Bucks center Robin Lopez is declining his $5M player option and becoming a free agent, (https://*********.com/social/) source tells ESPN.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

He'd be a good option if they are determined on spending their money where they don't need it most

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 10:20 PM

Adrian Wojnarowski: The Chicago Bulls will not extend a qualifying offer to guard Shaq Harrison, (https://*********.com/social/) allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent, source tells ESPN.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

he's been mentioned a couple times. sounds like he might make sense assuming they already have a starting PF first!

Xiao Yao You

11-16-2020, 11:43 PM

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/16/21569643/josh-green-utah-jazz-ben-simmons-nico-mannion-jaden-mc-daniel-nba-draft

Comparatively Green would be a player who would have more of a chance to break into the Jazz’s rotation in the 2020-21 season, while McDaniels would require a bit more development and admitted he would probably spend some time in the G League to get reps in between games.

whoever they draft should be in the gleague if there is one

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 12:00 AM

In a vacuum, the Jazz would prefer to keep Clarkson around. But let’s be honest: there’s also a chance that the ultimate price tag might be higher than what a team typically pays for it’s fifth best overall creation option, or fourth rotation guard. If that happens, it might be worth seeing if there’s a team out there that’s interesting in acquiring Clarkson but that doesn’t have the means to do it without the Jazz’s help on a S&T. Doing so could yield a future asset, or a rotational piece on a more modest salary.

goodbye hopefully!

Same goes for Bogdanovic, who finished 10th in the league in 3-pointers made, fifth in free-throw percentage, 27th in scoring average and first in walk-off buzzer beaters. At $17.9 million for next season, Bogdanovic is essentially making mid-tier starter money while functioning as a borderline star for Utah (at least on offense).

He's the one that needs to be shopped hard for a 4

Bottom line: if the Jazz have an opportunity to swing some trade magic, it’s more likely that it will involve O’Neale or Bogey than Ingles or Conley. But truth be told, the safest bet is that all four are on the roster on December 22.

unless the new owner changes things that's likely. This is the Jazz. Why make changes when you can bring back the same guys that aren't good enough!

If they don’t trade him, they may just cut him and eat the $5 million. The empty roster spot might be more worth it to them than the small chance of being able to deal him later in the season. They could also stretch his remaining salary out over three seasons, paying him $1.67M per year instead, but my guess is they would rather take the hit all at once and try to keep the cap sheet as clean as possible for when Gobert’s and Mitchell’s new contracts take effect.

they won't cut him until at least after the trade deadline

2020 No. 23 draft pick — although it can only be traded after the draft, and not before Wednesday evening. (The Jazz may view this as an important time to use the 23rd pick well to add a potential rotation piece at a low salary, since their salary picture is about to get more complicated.)

6 rookies. Perfect time to trade down into the 2nd round especially if no 5 or 1 available

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 12:00 AM

https://saltcityhoops.com/trade-season-starts-which-jazz-players-are-most-likely-to-move/

Pending free agents

17. Justin Wright-Foreman
16. Emmanuel Mudiay
15. Jarrell Brantley
We start with these three because they are almost literally untradable. As pending free agents, these three can’t be traded unless it’s part of a sign-and-trade transaction when free agency opens on Friday. But all three of these players are likely to be minimum-salary signees, and such players are never really part of S&T deals. Suitors wouldn’t need to engage the Jazz to add any of these three at their market rate.

I can certainly see someone try to steal Brantley which would be offering more than minimum. All Gleague. Mudiay could get more too. He showed me a lot last year. He's certainly a rotation player for the right team

Mitchell is somehow even less likely to be moved. He’s a young player still on his rookie deal, which means the Jazz have some control (via matching rights) that they don’t have with Gobert. Plus, Mitchell’s playoff leap this past summer made him look like another top-20 star in the making, if he’s not there already.

He's not. When he does it for a whole year outside a bubble get back to me

Niang probably has the most trade value here, since he has a solid NBA skill (his marksmanship) and has been the closest to rotation regular status. But I would rank Bradley as slightly more likely to be dealt. The latter’s salary is higher, making it more likely that he could mathematically help get a deal over the finish line. And it seems as though the Jazz would more willingly part with him than with Niang — especially if they go after an upgrade for that bench big man spot (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-i-finding-a-paint-protecting-rim-finishing-big/), something virtually everybody expects them to do.

their youngest player who fits what they do and they have much bigger needs elsewhere. Makes little sense to me

After Bradley and Niang, it gets a bit “eye of the beholder” in terms of how you’d rank the four minimum-salary dudes entering their respective second years. I listed Tucker next because he likely has more market value. Remember, he was pursued by many teams after an impressive G League start, to the point that the Jazz had to guarantee his rookie salary plus $340,000 of his upcoming year’s salary just to get him. That means there were other bidders, and some of them likely still have him on their radars. Oni has shown borderline rotation-quality defensive chops in spot minutes, and Morgan acquitted himself decently when called into postseason duty. Williams-Goss saw just 50 total NBA minutes in his rookie campaign.

might be less interest in Tucker now that they've seen him play rotation minutes in the the leage

Let’s start with the fact that both had what could statistically be described as off years. We’ve talked a lot all summer about the context and circumstances behind both guys’ statistical dips; Conley’s otherwise solid numbers (https://twitter.com/davidjsmith1232/status/1327384878825021445) were dragged down by the month or so he played hurt, and the season suspension meant Ingles never had a chance to bounce back from his habitual winter shooting funk. That’s fine. But it means that trading either guy now would be trading at a bit of a low point in terms of asset value.

Ingles game has dropped off the past two years. He's not going to get more valuable.

Now that Conley is reportedly NOT opting to terminate his contract early (https://twitter.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1326940083082076160), you could argue that it makes some sense for the Jazz to see what his expiring $34.5 million could get them on the open market. But the same Jazz execs who were giddy last summer after finally landing their longtime basketball crush are unlikely to give up after a single year in which Conley’s health was the main culprit behind his ups and downs. Once he was healthy enough to be himself, Conley gave the Jazz nearly 20 points per game in the playoffs, and on 48-53-86 shooting splits. From what I gather, the Jazz are excited to see what he could look like more fully deployed in year two in the Jazz ecosystem.

they should be shopped

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 12:05 AM

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-offseason/2020/11/16/21557725/should-donovan-mitchell-become-the-jazzs-full-time-point-guard-conley-gobert-free-agency-trade

On top of that, trading Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297138/mike-conley) for a 3 and D type player so that Mitchell could be the point guard would have some really negative effects on the rest of the roster. With Conley out of the equation, the Jazz are left with two real playmakers: Donovan Mitchell and an aging Joe Ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297999/joe-ingles). While players like Bojan Bogdanovic (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296476/bojan-bogdanovic) and Jordan Clarkson (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/246165/jordan-clarkson) have the ability to put the ball in the hole, they can’t really create for others. In the modern day NBA, only having two playmakers on an entire roster just won't cut it (that is unless you have Lebron James (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296663/lebron-james) on your roster, which unfortunately, the Jazz do not). If age and minutes weren't and issue for Ingles, he could very well be a starting point guard for a team himself. However, father time gets everyone and we can’t expect Ingles to take an even larger playmaking role in his last few years of his career.

Bring Conley off the bench with starter minutes. Start someone bigger. Stagger to start the game

With a player like Mike Conley (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/300106/mike-conley) in the mix, the Jazz don't only have a starting point guard, but also have a backup one. Throughout the year, Quin Snyder subbed out Conley early in the 1st quarter so that he and Mitchell had their minutes staggered. This meant that when Conley was healthy, he was able to control the second unit and keep the ball out of the hands of players like Emmanuel Mudiay (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/257489/emmanuel-mudiay). The bench last year was already razor thin, leading to it hemorrhaging points and losing games for the Jazz. Making your playmaking depth even thinner would only compound on that issue. Come playoff time, teams are going to force Mitchell and Ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/297999/joe-ingles) to have to do all the playmaking. While they are both fantastic players, that offense would become too predictable and good teams would find ways to match up against it. Outside of Lebron James (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/296663/lebron-james), none of the teams in the Eastern and Western Conference Finals had a player who averaged over a 30% usage rating (https://www.basketball-reference.com/leagues/NBA_2020_advanced.html#advanced_stats::usg_pct) in the regular season. Winning teams have multiple playmaking threats (or again, Lebron), and the Jazz don’t want to sacrifice one of their own.

Mudiay was good while Conley was out. Ingles as well

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 03:36 PM

Nnaji is receiving interest from teams in the late teens and 20s, according to multiple league sources. (https://nbadraft.theringer.com/) Rudy Gobert’s future with Utah is up in the air, so it makes logical sense to target a rookie big man with upside such as Nnaji, who league sources say is drilling 3-pointers in predraft workouts.
– via nbadraft.theringer.com (https://nbadraft.theringer.com/)

He's not a center. Not even great length for a 4. Next

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 03:40 PM

Adrian Wojnarowski: Portland Trail Blazers F Rodney Hood is declining his $6M player option and becoming a free agent, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN. Hood’s had nearly a full year to recover from a torn Achilles injury and can play right away with a new team.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

Rather have him than Clarkson and I don't want him! :lol

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 03:40 PM

Eric Walden: Stanford guard Tyrell Terry has done multiple Zoom interviews with the Utah Jazz; (https://*********.com/social/) said his agent has been in contact: “I know there’s interest there. My camp has been in close contact.” No workout with Utah; said he’s only done 2 workouts because of COVID restrictions in Indy.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 03:42 PM

trex arms. Next

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 03:53 PM

Eric Walden: Texas Tech’s Jahmi’us Ramsey said he has not done a workout specifically for the Jazz. (https://*********.com/social/) He did a Zoom workout that drew 22 times; not sure if the Jazz were on it. Said other than that, he’s not had any contact with the team.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

Xiao Yao You

11-17-2020, 03:56 PM

not a 1 nor great length Next

Xiao Yao You

11-18-2020, 01:32 AM

https://www.ksl.com/article/50050760/why-josh-green-and-the-utah-jazz-would-be-a-good-fit

First off, he'd have a teammate from his home country of Australia in Joe Ingles — Green spoke with Ingles on the day he worked out for the Jazz last week. It looks like he'd be able to get playing time early, too, with the Jazz lacking depth on the wing.

Mitchell, Bojan, Ingles, O'Neale, Clarkson, Niang, Oni, Tucker, Brantley and Wright Forman is lacking depth? :facepalm

Mo centers once again. Next...

Xiao Yao You

11-18-2020, 01:39 AM

https://fansided.com/2020/11/16/nba-offseason-2020-destinations-hassan-whiteside/2/

The Jazz may not play the most exciting brand of basketball in the world, but Quin Snyder has helped this team get into the playoffs time and time again in a very tough West, and center Rudy Gobert’s tremendous defense inside is a big reason why. However, both due to friction with teammates and his uneven play on the court of late, Gobert’s (https://fansided.com/2020/04/15/5-utah-jazz-trades-solve-rudy-gobert-donovan-mitchell-impasse/) name has frequently ended up in the rumor mill. Snyder simply can’t play the style of basketball he wants to play without a great interior presence, and Whiteside could be a great replacement.

who knows what style he'd play if he didn't have Rudy. He's always had him. Jazz aren't touching Whiteside

Whiteside and Donovan Mitchell would be quite the 1-2 punch when the playoffs roll around.

you mean start counting ping pong balls! :facepalm