2020-21 Regular season- The tax team

[Xiao Yao You]

Ryan Ward: Jared Dudley on if Lakers are monitoring other elite teams in the league, namely the Jazz: “If any player says they don’t look at other teams, they’d be lying to you.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter RyanWardLA (https://twitter.com/RyanWardLA)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50112572/jazz-flip-a-switch-in-the-2nd-half-and-blowout-hornets


"It's always easy to say maybe what we should have done from the beginning, but that's not always gonna be the case," said Donovan Mitchell, who had 23 points and eight assists. "We're always gonna have teams that come out ready, that are ready to beat us, ready to play us, ready to go."




be nice if you ever did it from the beginning being the elite superstar leader

[Xiao Yao You]

Marc Stein: Utah is 25-6. Twenty-one wins are by double digits. I think they should get three All-Stars …. we’ll find out later today if Gobert, Mitchell and Conley all get the nod (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter TheSteinLine (https://twitter.com/TheSteinLine)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/02/23/triple-team-jazzs-bench/


2. This year, the lineups with two starters have been really good. That’s typically Rudy Gobert and Mike Conley, along with some combination of Jordan Clarkson, Georges Niang, Joe Ingles, and Miye Oni. In those minutes, the Jazz have outscored teams by 14 points per 100 possessions. That’s meant Snyder can play everyone fewer minutes, and there’s much less of a white-knuckle ride in the bench times.





which tells you it's all about Conley


We’re just so lucky to get to watch him work day in and day out. There’s no question: Gobert is one of the best defensive players in NBA history.





someone gets it

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/22/22291489/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-charlotte-hornets-georges-niang-3-pointers-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert


Donovan Mitchell can have a pretty bad game and make you forget about it with three or four consecutive impact plays during a run.



doesn't make me forget about it


A note on technical fouls. Rudy received his second tech of the season after hitting the floor and screaming at the officials when they charged a foul to him and he felt it was the wrong call. That was quickly followed by Quin Snyder lashing out at the officials, earning himself a technical too. Then Snyder jumped to Gobert’s defense and challenged the play. Snyder often uses his challenges to show support for the players, even when the right call was originally made and I really like that approach. Also, a technical foul for being frustrated and emotional is one that I’ll never be mad at. You’d rather have players on the court that care that deeply about a single play than you would players who don’t care.



no he's wasting too many challenges early on calls unlikely to be reversed

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/23/22297219/utah-jazz-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers-nba-western-conference-standings


By the way, the only team in the league with a better record against winning ball clubs is the Brooklyn Nets (https://www.netsdaily.com/) at 12-2. This whole “the Jazz haven’t proven anything” mantra is pretty BS. Another going in favor of the Jazz here in terms of end-of-season standing projections.




it's not BS. Playoffs are a different story and they've yet to play LA


The Utah Jazz on paper are back to a full bill of health right now. That being said, something seems a little off with Favors right now. He was highly effective early on this year but currently seems to struggle. I wonder if that plantar fasciitis is acting up again. For the Lakers, Davis is going to be held out for ~4 weeks. If last night’s loss to the Washington Wizards (https://www.bulletsforever.com/) is any indication, they may drop more games than you’d expect before the All Star break. Also, having LeBron carry this big of a load is a tough ask of the veteran. The Clippers had quite the injury report for a while there, but they too are back to good health. However, Kawhi is known for resting regularly which may impact their results from time to time.




more knee and back. I'd guess him anting to be a backup has a lot to do with his health. Might be better off with him at least short term just to see what Morgan has

[Xiao Yao You]

“I think we should have five All-Stars,” Conley said. “I think this year, honestly, I’m playing the best basketball of my entire career. (https://theathletic.com/2398344/2021/02/23/jazz-point-guard-mike-conley-wants-to-be-a-part-of-utahs-long-term-plans-we-love-it-here/) Being 33 years old, I’ve never had the opportunity to play in the game. I’ve had the door shut so many times. But, it’s been so much fun being a part of a team like this that is so unique. We play so unselfishly, and we have a defensive mindset and a physical mentality. “To do that, you have to have nine or 10 guys that all make plays for each other and are all unselfish. It’s funny because we have been so versatile this season that I have struggled to figure out how to scout us. I never had to think about that for one of my teams.”
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2398344/2021/02/23/jazz-point-guard-mike-conley-wants-to-be-a-part-of-utahs-long-term-plans-we-love-it-here/)



5? Come on! Clarkson maybe. I hope you don't mean Bojan


“It was a difficult time overall,” Conley said. “Moving my family out here, learning a new area for the first time in forever. (https://theathletic.com/2398344/2021/02/23/jazz-point-guard-mike-conley-wants-to-be-a-part-of-utahs-long-term-plans-we-love-it-here/) Utah Jazz fans are very passionate, and they love their team and they love success. I was supposed to be a part of that. I wanted to show the people what I could do. “So to start the way I did, not doing anything well, not being able to hit a shot, that wasn’t me. And then when the injury came, I wasn’t able to show what I could do. For a while, it felt like anything I did was going to be bad. It was tough. I wasn’t used to negative criticism. I felt like I let the people down.”
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2398344/2021/02/23/jazz-point-guard-mike-conley-wants-to-be-a-part-of-utahs-long-term-plans-we-love-it-here/)



https://*********.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/92/2021/01/i_05_d8_4d_donovan-mitchell.png?w=190They have become one of the best backcourts in the league this season because the feel is there. Staggering the minutes has been a significant help. It gives them each time on the floor where they are the undisputed captain. It gives them space. But, they have played so much better together this season. “The biggest thing has been we both understand and can read each other,” Mitchell said. “Mike always has a feel for how defenses are guarding me and for what’s needed, and vice versa. (https://theathletic.com/2398344/2021/02/23/jazz-point-guard-mike-conley-wants-to-be-a-part-of-utahs-long-term-plans-we-love-it-here/) Sometimes, I know that I need to defer to Mike, and sometimes I’m like I got it. It’s a trust and a bond that we have always had in each other.”
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2398344/2021/02/23/jazz-point-guard-mike-conley-wants-to-be-a-part-of-utahs-long-term-plans-we-love-it-here/)



mostly better because of Mike

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: The @Utah Jazz must decide on the future of Miye Oni, Juwan Mogan, and Shaq Harrison’s non-guaranteed contracts by tomorrow. (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)





Letting Shaq go if they can under the tax line makes sense. Give them more flexibility at the trade deadline and for buyouts. Could always bring him back on 10 days anyway. Not like he's played or anything

[Xiao Yao You]

Hughes finally played with the Stars. 20 pts in 21 minutes on 5-11/2-7/5-5 the gunner even had a couple of assists but 3 TO's. The addition of him and Josh Green appears to have made a big difference with their 2nd win! Time to send Forrest there with Conley back

[Xiao Yao You]

In an interview with The Athletic, Conley made it clear that he would like to stay with the Jazz beyond this season. And on a day where he could finally become an All-Star for the first time in a long and successful career, Conley’s words encapsulate how much he and the Jazz organization have taken to each other. “Utah’s got me,” Conley said. “I was talking about this to my wife recently. We love it here. I don’t think I can go anywhere else that plays the way we play. (https://theathletic.com/2398344/) We’ll see this offseason, because when that time comes there will definitely be a lot of chatter. “But, from where I sit right now, this team is so unique, in the way we play. And everyone has bought into what we want to do on both ends of the floor.”
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2398344/)





well duh! He's never been better. Why would he want to go elsewhere. Now it's up to the Jazz to make it happen. Sure George Hlll felt the same way

[Xiao Yao You]

Bobby Marks: Rudy Gobert has earned a $1M bonus for his selection as an All-Star reserve. The Jazz will not see an additional tax charge this season since the bonus was deemed likely (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter BobbyMarks42 (https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42)

[Xiao Yao You]

Mike Conley: Yessir!! Congrats to @spidadmitchell @rudygobert27 (https://*********.com/social/tweets/) ! Hopefully many more to come!!
– via Twitter MCONLEY10 (https://twitter.com/MCONLEY10)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50112899/patrick-kinahan-selfless-ingles-not-about-to-brag-on-himself


With Ingles playing at an all-star level, the Jazz went 6-0 during Conley's absence and solidified their hold on first place in the Western Conference. Once Conley regained his health, Ingles returned to the bench with nary a complaint knowing full well his numbers would dwindle.




why must we always overstate things? All star? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50113270/donovan-mitchell-and-rudy-gobert-selected-to-2nd-straight-all-star-game


The two might be the faces of the franchise, but Utah isn't sitting at the top of the standings without Conley, Jordan Clarkson and Bojan Bogdanovic. Clarkson made the case earlier this month that as many as four players could be taken from the Jazz — and he wasn't including himself, the league's best bench player this season.




I'd say in spite of Bojan

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50113033/from-the-comments-mike-conleys-all-star-case-and-lets-talk-a-bit-about-gordon-hayward


It's easy to be happy, as keepsimple is, because the Jazz are a better team now than at any point when Hayward was playing in Utah. Fans have two All-Stars (and maybe more) who have embraced state like Hayward never did, and they can boast about the best record in the league. This is arguably the best Jazz team since the Finals runs in the late 90s. Hayward, meanwhile, is on a young team fighting for the playoffs in the East. For Jazz fans, it's easy to say they won.




would have been better if he'd stayed

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/23/22297287/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-all-star-game-reserves-nba-2021-atlanta-mike-conley-snub


The Utah Jazz have not had three players on an All-Star team since Stockton, Malone and Mark Eaton represented the Jazz in the 1989 game. The NBA has not announced when an injury replacement for Davis will be named.




Eaton! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/23/22297544/are-the-utah-jazz-atlanta-hawks-comparisons-accurate-demarre-carroll-weighs-in

should have ben playing for Utah not Atlanta :cry:

[Xiao Yao You]

Two seasons ago, the Jazz were a decent 3-point shooting team that was elite defensively. That was flipped last season. These Jazz are now among the best at both — and have embraced the 3 like never before, leading the NBA in treys attempted (42.5 per game) and made (16.8, on pace for a league record). “Wow, they spread you out,” a West scout said. “They can drive it, shoot it and have a lob threat. They’re really tough to defend now.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers)
– via Tim MacMahon @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers)





they were tough to defend at the end of Hayward's last season. The fact that they thought Ricky and Favors in the corner was a good idea is something else! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

“You kind of go back to the old Detroit team that won it,” a longtime Western Conference scout said, referring to the 2003-04 Pistons, (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers) whose lone All-Star that season was Ben Wallace, a defensively dominant big man and Detroit’s sixth-leading scorer. “They just had a lot of really good players. “I thought Utah needed another star, but I’ve changed on that.”
– via Tim MacMahon @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers)



It would likely mean the L.A. teams would meet each other in the second round, so the Jazz wouldn’t have to beat both the Lakers and the Clippers to get out of the West. “I think they’re the third-best team in the West,” an Eastern Conference executive whose team has lost to the Jazz recently said. (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers) “I think they might have the best record in the regular season, but I do not think they should be favored over either L.A. team. In fact, I would heavily favor the L.A. teams, but I like the Jazz a lot.
– via Tim MacMahon @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers)

[Xiao Yao You]

Assessing total career value is one way to answer the question of the best non-All-Star, but it’s not the only method. A “compiler” with a bunch of decent but unspectacular seasons can put together an impressive career without ever making a strong All-Star case in any one season. So we can also look at the list of non-All-Stars with the best peaks, defined for these purposes as their best five seasons. Using this peak method, Conley moves into third place on the list—and will probably jump up to second by the time this season finishes, as he’s on pace for one of the best campaigns of his career (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/2/23/22298428/mike-conley-all-star-reservers-snub).
– via Zach Kram @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/2/23/22298428/mike-conley-all-star-reservers-snub)

[Xiao Yao You]

Over his last 19 games, Williamson is averaging 26.8 points, 5.9 rebounds and 3.9 assists, and he’s shooting an absurd 65.3 percent from the field. (https://theathletic.com/2409146/2021/02/24/zion-williamson-all-star-growth/?source=rss) That’s an even higher shooting percentage than what fellow All-Star Rudy Gobert has for the season, and all he does on offense is set screens and dunk. The Pelicans forward also leads the league with 18.8 points in the paint per game. If the season ended today, that would be the highest number any player has put up since Shaquille O’Neal averaged 19.6 points in the paint per game in 2002-03.
– via William Guillory @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2409146/2021/02/24/zion-williamson-all-star-growth/?source=rss)





and offensive rebound. Shouldn't be all star. Horrible defender

[Xiao Yao You]

Glenn Robinson III was still away from the team when the Kings visited the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday and it was not clear if he would return. Sources with knowledge of the situation told The Sacramento Bee Robinson’s future with the team is uncertain as the deadline for nonguaranteed contracts approaches. (https://www.sacbee.com/sports/article249476005.html) Robinson was anticipating his release, but the team had not communicated its intentions as of Tuesday night, sources said.
– via Sacramento Bee (https://www.sacbee.com/sports/article249476005.html)





I'd guess the Jazz would still be interested?

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Sources tell me the @Utah Jazz are releasing Shaq Harrison (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)





not surprising. I'd guess if they liked him he could be back. This is tax and flexibility related. I'm sure they will run with 13 as long as they are allowed(assuming injuries/Trump virus don't hit) before picking guys up on 10 days

[Xiao Yao You]

it's too bad we never got to see him play outside garbage time

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Donovan Mitchell said he will be in the three-point shooting contest (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Donovan Mitchell, on Mike Conley’s exclusion from the ASG: “It’s unfortunate that we don’t play on national TV enough for people to see his impact. … I thought he would get in. Hopefully he still will as Anthony Davis’ replacement. … He’s definitely earned a spot.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



more than you. Wouldn't matter if you were on tv more. It's about numbers and hype which is why you are in and he's not

[Xiao Yao You]

The game schedules across TNT and ESPN for the final week of the regular season (May 10-16) will be determined at a later date in order to provide the most compelling matchups to a national audience leading into the NBA Play-In Tournament and the NBA Playoffs. (https://pr.nba.com/2020-21-nba-second-half-schedule/) In the final week of the regular season, TNT will present doubleheaders Tuesday, May 11 and Thursday, May 13, and ESPN will televise doubleheaders Wednesday, May 12 and Friday, May 14. ESPN will also air a game Sunday, May 16 on the final day of the regular season. TNT will tip off its coverage of the Second Half of the season Thursday, March 11 with a doubleheader as the Brooklyn Nets host the Boston Celtics (7:30 p.m. ET) and the Golden State Warriors visit the LA Clippers (10 p.m. ET). ESPN will begin its Second Half coverage Sunday, March 14 when the New Orleans Pelicans host the Clippers (9 p.m. ET). On Monday, March 15, ESPN’s first doubleheader in the Second Half will feature the New York Knicks visiting the Nets (8 p.m. ET) and the Lakers taking on the Warriors in San Francisco (10:30 p.m. ET).
– via NBA.com (https://pr.nba.com/2020-21-nba-second-half-schedule/)





not even the best record changes anything :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://pr.nba.com/2020-21-nba-second-half-schedule/

• The Utah Jazz, which has a league-leading 25-6 record, will visit the defending NBA champion Lakers twice in a three-day span on ESPN: Saturday, April 17 (3:30 p.m. ET) and Monday, April 19 (10 p.m. ET). Utah will also host Brooklyn on Wednesday, March 24 on ESPN (10 p.m. ET).

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.nba.com/schedule/jazz?cal=all

looks like they might be able to rest the final couple games with any luck which I guess with play in games there will be plenty of rest anyway

5 espn and one TNT

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: The Sacramento Kings are planning to waive forward Glenn Robinson III, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN. Robinson has averaged 5.3 points in 23 games this season.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.yahoo.com/news/bill-burt-niangs-career-takes-161500042.html


The next three years have gone 43 for 105 (.410), 90 for 225 (.400) and this season, 37 for 101 (.366).




let's not leave out the 50% in his all gleague year

[Xiao Yao You]

Michael Scotto: Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker has been named by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to replace injured Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis in the 2021 NBA All-Star Game (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter MikeAScotto (https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto)





joke

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Quin Snyder, on Mike Conley not making the All-Star Game: “Mike knows how much he’s meant to our group and to our success. Those are tough situations. Certainly I feel Mike is deserving for what he’s done for our team. It’s not lost on our team.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



Eric Walden: Quin Snyder on high-profile matchups: “It’s not about can you beat the Lakers, or can you match up with the Lakers. The goal is to keep getting better and to learn.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)





can you without putting Favors at the 4? Morgan?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/453875/donovan-mitchell-to-compete-in-three-point-shooting-contest/


John Stockton twice competed in the contest, losing both times in 1992 and 1997. In 1990 Bobby Hansen became the first Jazz player to compete in the shootout.




Bobby! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/24/22298522/utah-jazz-vs-los-angeles-lakers-jazz-take-on-lebron-and-company-lebron-james-donovan-mitchell


It will be interesting to see how well Rudy Gobert plays in this game with no Anthony Davis. Marc Gasol has looked like a shell of himself in most games this season, especially defensively, but Gasol is a good shooter and Rudy has had a hard time defending stretch big men that can shoot in the past. It’s not to say that Rudy won’t have any impact at all but if Gasol gets into a groove from outside it could make it a very difficult night for the Jazz to get enough stops to win this game.




Rudy doesn't have a tough time. The Jazz do if he's away fro the rim

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Lakers coach Frank Vogel, on the Jazz: “They’ve got a great team. … To see what they’re doing right now is no surprise to me because I expected them to play this way last year.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz blew out the Los Angeles Lakers 114-89 on Wednesday, setting an NBA record for total 3-pointers made in consecutive games in the process (https://theathletic.com/news/jazz-blow-out-lakers-set-nba-record-for-total-3-pointers-in-consecutive-games/3fXRiCgBLv4r). The Jazz hit a combined 50 3-pointers in wins against Charlotte on Monday and the Lakers on Wednesday — 28 against Charlotte and 22 against the Lakers.
– via The Athletic Staff @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/news/jazz-blow-out-lakers-set-nba-record-for-total-3-pointers-in-consecutive-games/3fXRiCgBLv4r)



Those Spurs had three surefire Hall of Famers with extensive championship experience in Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili, not to mention a budding superstar in Kawhi Leonard. One of the primary reasons skepticism about the Jazz persists among rival scouts and executives is because they lack proven star power that the Lakers, LA Clippers and Eastern Conference favorite Brooklyn Nets feature (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers).
– via Tim MacMahon @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers)



“Mike Conley is much different,” a West scout said (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers) of the 33-year-old point guard who, entering play Wednesday, was averaging 16.4 points and 5.6 assists per game with the best effective field goal percentage (.559) of his career. “He knows their system and knows their personnel, and he’s shooting the ball great.”
– via Tim MacMahon @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30952349/are-utah-jazz-real-threat-los-angeles-lakers-la-clippers)

[Xiao Yao You]

In other action, Jazz-Clippers drew a 0.75 (-4%) and 1.25 million (+6%) on ESPN last Friday, preceded by Bulls-Sixers at a 0.6 (-14%) and 972,000 (-4%). Shifting to this week, TNT drew 1.03 million for Celtics-Mavericks (-11%) on Tuesday, (https://www.sportsmediawatch.com/2021/02/michigan-osu-ratings-highest-season-college-hoops-nba-pga-tour/) followed by 1.14 million for Blazers-Nuggets (-49% from last year’s first meeting of LeBron James and Zion Williamson).
– via Sports Media Watch (https://www.sportsmediawatch.com/2021/02/michigan-osu-ratings-highest-season-college-hoops-nba-pga-tour/)



Elijah Millsap: Almost 6yrs ago. On April 16, 2015, D. Lindsey made bigot remarks in my exit interview while conversing with Q. Snyder (https://*********.com/social/tweets/) “if u say one more word, I’ll cut your Black ass and send you back to Louisiana”.
– via Twitter Elijah_Millsap (https://twitter.com/Elijah_Millsap)



Andy Larsen: Jazz general manager Dennis Lindsey to the Tribune on the tweet below from former player Elijah Millsap: “I categorically deny making that statement” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)





might help explain why Millsap wasn't the same player the next year? His defense was elite before the so called statement

[Xiao Yao You]

Tim MacMahon: Mike Conley on not being an All-Star: “Man, it was tough. I really, really thought this was the year. (https://*********.com/social/) I joked with the guys on the team that I blame them. We should have started the year 31-0. Maybe that would have given me a chance, but I don’t know what else to do.”
– via Twitter espn_macmahon (https://twitter.com/espn_macmahon)



Eric Walden: Mike Conley: “They obviously know it was a tough day for me, as well as something to celebrate for them. (https://*********.com/social/) … Tonight, I honestly was just playing the way I’ve been playing, but with a little more motivation. It’s disappointing, but that’s how my career has been.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



Michael Scotto: Marc Gasol on Mike Conley’s All-Star snub: “It’s always tough. I’ve been with him when he deserved to be an All-Star in Memphis many years. (https://*********.com/social/) He’s always been deserving but not making it. I think this year it’s a little bit tougher because they have the best record in the league.” pic.twitter.com/G7n2HBG9H9
– via Twitter MikeAScotto (https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto)




Ben Anderson: Rudy Gobert on the @Utah Jazz defense. “I think we did a great job defensively. Regardless of who we are facing, who’s playing, who’s not playing. We want to make sure that we come in every single night with a mindset of defending.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

When asked after Wednesday night’s game between the Jazz and Lakers, what he recalled about that particular exit interview, Jazz coach Quin Snyder said that he didn’t remember that conversation. “Honestly, I don’t remember the conversation,” Snyder said. “I can’t fathom Dennis saying something like that.” (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/24/22299220/utah-jazz-dennis-lindsey-denies-use-of-bigoted-language-to-former-jazz-player-elijah-millsap)
– via Sarah Todd @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/24/22299220/utah-jazz-dennis-lindsey-denies-use-of-bigoted-language-to-former-jazz-player-elijah-millsap)



The Jazz players were informed about the tweet following Wednesday’s game. Rudy Gobert said he was pretty close with Millsap when they were Jazz teammates but that Wednesday was the first he had heard about the incident. “There was never any conversations about that (back then),” Gobert said. “I’m just going to reach out to him and find out. Until we have more information it’s hard to tell, it was six years ago. (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/24/22299220/utah-jazz-dennis-lindsey-denies-use-of-bigoted-language-to-former-jazz-player-elijah-millsap) That’s why this kind of stuff is tough to understand. Hopefully we get more information.”
– via Sarah Todd @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/24/22299220/utah-jazz-dennis-lindsey-denies-use-of-bigoted-language-to-former-jazz-player-elijah-millsap)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/453952/the-jazz-showed-no-mercy-against-the-short-handed-lakers/


Led by 18 point performances from Rudy Gobert and Jordan Clarkson, and near triple-doubles from Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley, the Jazz built a second quarter lead against the shorthanded Lakers and easily ran away with the victory in record-breaking (https://twitter.com/espn_macmahon/status/1364825093302542342) style.




could we stop saying near triple doubles. 2 assists and 2 boards especially for a little guy is a lot

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/02/25/triple-team-last-year/


Mitchell shot poorly, but no one cares, because he had eight assists and 10 rebounds. Conley tried to call a play for Mitchell on the night he would have been most justified in raising his middle fingers to the world and getting shots up. Gobert led the team in scoring — his field goals were assisted by three Mitchell passes and three Conley passes. It’s all clicking.





almost a triple dub!


To be honest, you also got the sense that these coaches — and I’ll throw James in there as a kind of player-coach — didn’t want to show their hand. There’s a really good chance that these teams will meet in the playoffs at some point, and so while the Lakers’ attempts at defense were relatively half-hearted, their attempts to make adjustments to the Jazz’s killer offense were one-tenth-hearted.




definitely made adjustments at half time and tried to stop the 3's and Rudy went to work. Pick your poison


I think on this Jazz team, it is not enough. Whereas once the Jazz’s highest priority was defense, I think it is now offensive versatility — everyone on the roster is capable of making these really smart, quick decisions with the ball in their hands to keep it moving and to find the open man. Harrison isn’t a passer, at all, so he couldn’t find a home here.





we don't really know what he is. He is a combo guard.


The trade deadline is on March 25 this year, so I’d bet that they don’t acquire their last roster spot in a trade. But Tuesday was the first day that teams could sign 10-day players, and there are some interesting possibilities, including on the Salt Lake City Stars... maybe they just give Yogi Ferrell or Malcolm Miller a look?





Miller has been horrible. Trevon Scott maybe but they need a vet not another young guy


I also wonder if they wait the full two weeks to sign someone. I mean, it’s pretty clear that they don’t need the help at the moment, and signing a player for the extra time just means the Jazz go further over the luxury tax. They may stay at 13 players for as long as possible to just help save the $110K — the value of a 10-day contract this season — against the books.






that would be my guess

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/24/22300631/utah-jazz-blow-out-los-angeles-lakers-114-89-donovan-mitchell-lebron-james-game-recap


There was only one legitimate concern from tonight’s game: The Jazz lack size and strength outside of Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors. I think that this was apparent against both the Clippers and the Lakers.




was apparent all last year.


Who can guard Lebron or Kawhi outside of O’neal? Maybe a bit of Ingles? I thought Niang looked vulnerable against both the Lakers and the Clippers. While Niang has exceeded expectations at times this season, I wonder how playable he will be in the playoffs.




Probably won't play. Rotation reduced in playoffs



I think Lakers might slip to 4 seed and phoenix up to 3 seed.

Posted by CJ Livinghousen (https://www.sbnation.com/users/CJ%20Livinghousen) on Feb 25, 2021 | 1:12 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/24/22300631/utah-jazz-blow-out-los-angeles-lakers-114-89-donovan-mitchell-lebron-james-game-recap#536924457)



that would be bad


The Lakers are a really, really bad three-point shooting team
and as good as AD is, him being back in the lineup doesn’t necessarily fix that. If it comes down to Jazz-Lakers in the playoffs, the Jazz might honestly be able to shoot their way through. LeBron is amazing, especially in the playoffs (no point denying it), but he’s old and playing waaaay too many minutes per game. This could be our year, guys. Like, for real.

Posted by GregOstertagged (https://www.sbnation.com/users/GregOstertagged) on Feb 25, 2021 | 1:40 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/24/22300631/utah-jazz-blow-out-los-angeles-lakers-114-89-donovan-mitchell-lebron-james-game-recap#536924556)


couldn't shoot last year either

[Xiao Yao You]

We took a straw poll of league executives on which player outside of Bradley Beal could change the landscape of the playoff race. The unanimous answer was the veteran Thaddeus Young (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/30945851/what-hearing-all-30-teams-ahead-2021-nba-trade-deadline). Here is why Young has value around the league: Versatility: In the 26 games played this season, Young has played 70% at power forward and a career-high 30% at center. He has a career-high 116.7 offensive rating, with 88.5% of his points on two-point shots (last season that number was 57.7%).
– via Bobby Marks @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/30945851/what-hearing-all-30-teams-ahead-2021-nba-trade-deadline)





he'd be nice

[Xiao Yao You]

Anthony Chiang: Heat listing Bam Adebayo (left knee tendinosis) as questionable for tomorrow’s game vs. Jazz. Tyler Herro (hip) also questionable (https://*********.com/social/). Avery Bradley and Meyers Leonard are out.
– via Twitter Anthony_Chiang (https://twitter.com/Anthony_Chiang)





Bam runnin' scared too?

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz are cooperating with an NBA investigation into former guard Elijah Millsap’s allegation that executive vice president of basketball operations Dennis Lindsey made bigoted comments during a 2015 end-of-season meeting, (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30965081/sources-nba-investigating-bigotry-allegation-utah-jazz-vice-president-dennis-lindsey) sources told ESPN. The probe will include the sharing of detailed notes taken in the April 2015 meeting that was attended by Millsap and three Jazz officials, sources said.
– via Adrian Wojnarowski @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30965081/sources-nba-investigating-bigotry-allegation-utah-jazz-vice-president-dennis-lindsey)



End-of-season meetings — also commonly called exit meetings — are staples of NBA organizations, typically wide-ranging conversations between front offices and players that review the past season and look to the future. The Jazz have kept detailed notes on every one of those meetings since Lindsey started as the franchise’s GM in 2012, (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30965081/sources-nba-investigating-bigotry-allegation-utah-jazz-vice-president-dennis-lindsey) sources said.
– via Adrian Wojnarowski @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30965081/sources-nba-investigating-bigotry-allegation-utah-jazz-vice-president-dennis-lindsey)




The Jazz have retained outside counsel to assist the league in its review of the matter, sources said. Utah officials, including Lindsey, encouraged the league office’s opening of a review of Millsap’s allegation, which was lodged on social media Wednesday night (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30965081/sources-nba-investigating-bigotry-allegation-utah-jazz-vice-president-dennis-lindsey).
– via Adrian Wojnarowski @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30965081/sources-nba-investigating-bigotry-allegation-utah-jazz-vice-president-dennis-lindsey)




Marc Stein: The Jazz announce they have hired an outside firm in conjunction with the NBA to “thoroughly investigate” a recent social media post from former Utah forward Elijah Millsap (https://*********.com/social/) alleging a racially insensitive comment from the team’s top basketball executive, Dennis Lindsey, in 2015:


– via Twitter TheSteinLine (https://twitter.com/TheSteinLine)





Sarah Todd: In speaking with Elijah Millsap, he said he was disappointed that Lindsey denied it so quickly. (https://*********.com/social/) Even if it’s not what they remember, Millsap felt that it would have been right for them to reach out to him and address what he considers to be a hurtful experience rather than deny
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

[Xiao Yao You]

During ESPN’s “The Jump,” reporter Marc Spears says NBA General Managers, executives and scouts are saying Southwest Division teams will be active around the trade deadline, including the San Antonio Spurs. And according to Spears, the Spurs are shopping LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan. “Another name is San Antonio, is kind of surprising” Spears said. “LaMarcus Aldridge’s name has been bandied about. Also, a little bit I’m hearing is DeMar DeRozan.” (https://news4sanantonio.com/sports/content/report-spurs-shopping-lamarcus-aldridge-demar-derozan)
– via news4sanantonio.com (https://news4sanantonio.com/sports/content/report-spurs-shopping-lamarcus-aldridge-demar-derozan)








He'd be nice. Would increase the tax bill but certainly makes them better

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yd22nvfu

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/2/25/22301131/mike-conley-all-star-snub-utah-jazz-chris-paul-devin-booker


Also huge improvements for Clarkson, Mitchell, Ingles, and Niang.
I mean, us dunkers already knew that, but it is interesting to see the numbers behind it.
Also, this fun stat:

But the Jazz also play significantly better with Conley on the court, particularly in combination with Gobert; no other two-man combination in the league has a better on-court scoring differential than Conley and Gobert’s +226 mark.
Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Feb 25, 2021 | 3:21 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/2/25/22301131/mike-conley-all-star-snub-utah-jazz-chris-paul-devin-booker#536945973)


O'Neale I would think too. Rudy has been better except for his finishing and FT shooting

[Xiao Yao You]

Following Harden’s trade to the Nets, The Athletic reported on several teams inquiring about Tucker’s availability. As the trade deadline approaches, that interest is still alive and well around the league from contenders. Sources say teams such as Brooklyn, Utah and Denver all have sniffed around, (https://theathletic.com/2412595/2021/02/26/rockets-christian-wood-nba-basketball/?source=emp_shared_article) and there certainly will be other contenders looking to improve heading into the second half of the season (both Los Angeles teams come to mind). Tucker is still a player who can help a winning team, likely more valuable to organizations with deep playoff runs in mind than a team like Houston that is transitioning.
– via Kelly Iko @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2412595/2021/02/26/rockets-christian-wood-nba-basketball/?source=emp_shared_article)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Andre Iguodala on the Jazz: “Coach Snyder is coaching the hell out of that team. They’re really efficient on both sides of the ball, and when you play that way, you’re going to win more often than not. (https://*********.com/social/) … We need to have the mentality that we have to defend the whole 24 seconds.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Anthony Chiang: Tyler Herro (hip) remains out tonight (https://*********.com/social/) vs. Jazz. No decision has been made yet on Bam Adebayo’s status for tonight. Adebayo is warming up on the court right now.
– via Twitter Anthony_Chiang (https://twitter.com/Anthony_Chiang)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Quin Snyder, on the Elijah Millsap accusation: “I’ve never heard anything remotely close to that said by Dennis. (https://*********.com/social/) … And I’m sensitive to things like that — so I’d remember something like that. I’ve never heard anything like that come out of his mouth.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



Eric Walden: Erik Spoelstra, on Rudy Gobert: “He’s really unique. … He’s disruptive as heck in the paint and around the rim. (https://*********.com/social/) … On the other end, he knows what he is and he sticks to it.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Erik Spoelstra on the @UtahJazz. “To the average fan, they’re wondering where did this team come from. But the people in the know, people in this league have have seen this team as one of the elite teams (https://*********.com/social/) for at least the last three years..”
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/jazzs-unselfishness-helps-drive-team-success/


Joe willingly took a bench role last season. In a previous season he volunteered his starting position so Rodney Hood could start, even though Snyder didn’t take him up on the offer.




how many years did it take Snyder to figure out Hood wasn't a starter?


While Rudy is 2nd in the league in blocks per game, he doesn’t chase blocks as other centers do. Instead he uses his presence in the middle to dissuade shots — sometimes just standing in the paint is enough to scare away opponents. I wonder if we would see Mark Eaton-like numbers if Rudy tried (fun fact: Eaton average 5.6 blocks per game his third season).




doubt it. Not enough post ups today

[Xiao Yao You]

Fomer Utah guard Elijah Millsap said Friday that he has not yet heard from any investigators regarding his allegation that Jazz executive Dennis Lindsey made a bigoted comment to him during an end-of-season meeting in 2015. Millsap also expressed doubt that a fair investigation could take place regarding his claim that Lindsey, who then was the team’s general manager and now is an executive vice president, threatened to cut his “Black ass” and send him home (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive).
– via ESPN News Services @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)



“Obviously, I know my truth,” Millsap said in an interview with The Associated Press. “Some outside counsel or somebody, all they can do is just try to stir it up and make [me] look as if I’m lying. I did it basically to free myself from the torture of holding things in, to free myself, not to make Dennis Lindsey feel bad and not to make him look like a racist. (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive) I don’t feel he is a racist, but I do know what he said to me.”
– via ESPN News Services @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)



General manager Justin Zanik, who was then an assistant general manager tasked with keeping detailed notes of the conversation, was also in the meeting, (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive) sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. Those notes were entered into a team database and will be examined as part of the investigation, sources said.
– via ESPN News Services @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)



Millsap said he remembers being “high energy” going into that meeting and eager to hear what Lindsey and Snyder would say to him. “I was expecting great feedback,” Millsap said. “And then it took a turn for the worse.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)
– via ESPN News Services @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)



Millsap appeared in only two more NBA games after the Jazz waived him, and said he believes the team has not spoken well of him when other teams asked about his background. He said he still works out for several hours a day and would like to resume his playing career. Millsap said he doesn’t have any specific resolution that would satisfy him in mind. “These guys, they had the opportunity to tell people the truth about who I was,” Millsap said. “And they didn’t do that. That’s disgusting to me.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)
– via ESPN News Services @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30970754/elijah-millsap-expresses-concerns-probe-allegation-utah-jazz-executive)



https://*********.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/92/2021/01/i_de_64_9c_mike-conley.png?w=190“Like if you’re talking to somebody, they’re like, ‘How’s Utah? How’s Salt Lake? Are there a lot of Black people there,?’” Conley said by phone this week. “They ask questions like that — ‘are people cool there? What’s it like? Because I heard this, I heard that.’ (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/) And you kind of have to set it straight, like man, nah, it’s nothing like what you heard. People here are great. The weather’s actually really great. It’s a fun place to be. I think guys are starting to realize that, and when you’ve built a great culture, a winning culture, I think it’s a lot easier for players to want to look into the opportunity to be here.”
– via David Aldridge @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/)



“I think sometimes, people got the wrong perception of Salt Lake City, or Utah or whatever, especially with the organization, with the history with the players, and obviously the demographics out here,” Favors said by phone this week. “But I think a lot of players are comfortable coming out here. It’s just a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle in all the big cities, all the lights and glamour in the big cities. (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/) You can come out here and just focus on basketball, focus on what you need to do to become a better player. And guys just have a comfort level out here. …
– via David Aldridge @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/)



At least one former Black executive with the Jazz is publicly vouching for Lindsey. Andrae Patterson, who worked in Utah from 2015-17 as player personnel/player programs coordinator, reached out to me Thursday night. “My experience and interactions as well as my training with Dennis Lindsey has always been about being respectful and as much of an anti-racist in personal and business life whenever possible,” said Patterson, (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/) who’s now the Cavaliers’ Senior Director of Basketball Operations. Patterson wanted to be clear that he wasn’t in any way casting aspersions on Elijah Millsap’s accusations, but wanted to speak up based on his personal interactions with Lindsey, whom Patterson calls a friend.
– via David Aldridge @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/)



“You still probably have to go on Amazon and do a lot of other stuff to get what you need out here, because as a Black person, they don’t really have a lot of stuff for Black people — not yet, I’m pretty sure it’s coming, but not yet,” Favors said. (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/) “So you still have to maybe go online or have stuff shipped. But guys got one or two barbers out here. The restaurants here are pretty cool. But like I said, you come out here, as a player, you mostly focus on basketball, getting better, winning games, trying to win a championship. And I think the organization does a good job of catering to the players, making sure that they’re comfortable, making sure that they’ve got everything they need.”
– via David Aldridge @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2405896/2021/02/26/aldridge-dennis-lindsey-elijah-millsap-jazz-facing-race-questions-again/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454081/jazz-look-to-bounce-back-against-magic-after-loss-in-miami/


The Jazz had a poor shooting night to open their road trip in Miami. As a team, they connected on just 42 percent of their shots from the floor and 32 percent from the three-point line.




they scored 116 points. Their problem was at the other end


Jordan Clarkson and Mike Conley were the Jazz worst offenders. Conley sunk just 6-15 from the floor and 2-7 threes, while Clarkson made a season-low 4-17 shoots from the floor and 3-12 from deep.




40% for Conley with 7 assists/2to/2stls. Not horrible


Despite a 30 point outing from Donovan Mitchell, the Jazz were unable to contain Jimmy Butler and Heat reserve guard Goran Dragic who combined to scored 59 of Miami’s 124 points.




11-26/5 to's and Conley was the problem! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454128/heat-follow-playbook-to-beat-jazz-in-miami/


With the loss, the Jazz started their four-game road trip off on a sour note, despite a strong 30 point outing from guard Donovan Mitchell.




same game I saw? This guy can do no wrong. Never a mention of his efficiency/to's/D


First, the Jazz get outshot by the opponent, and second, Mike Conley has a poor shooting performance of his own.




116 points. Conley shooting 40% wasn't the problem


The Heat meanwhile shot an impressive 51 percent from the floor and 46 percent from three.




as I said


Then, to complete the formula, Conley connected on just 6-15 shots for 40 percent.




did you see Clarkson? I'd say Conley was good


Miami targeted Conley on the defensive end forcing him to expend more energy on that end of the floor, and it appeared that the Jazz guard was frustrated by the amount of contact the Heat got away with when defending him.




looked like Bojan was their target as he and Mitchell should be


“I just missed shots,” Clarkson said. “We have great looks, especially myself. Just didn’t make them, just one of those nights.”




is their a bad look for you?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/02/27/triple-team-did-miami/



So looking to keep his team’s 4-game win streak going, Spoelstra was aggressive in adapting his team’s game plan to his opponent. And that meant something we haven’t seen much of this year: opponents going to great lengths to target Bojan Bogdanovic.






COTM playing Bojan 30 minutes including the closing ones :facepalm


Here’s the big question: how much do you think this game’s performance reflects what’s likely to happen moving forward, especially in the playoffs? Will teams be able to do attack Bogey so successfully then? It’s actually hard to know. Remember, Bogdanovic hasn’t faced playoff game-planning with the Jazz before. He did with Indiana, and actually took a lead role in defending LeBron James (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23270138/bojan-bogdanovic-indiana-pacers-draws-raves-defense-lebron-james) in a series that the Pacers impressively took the Cavs to seven games in. Referees might swallow that whistle in the playoffs.





as I said last year I'm not sure they aren't better without him


I think in a playoff game, the Jazz probably finish the game with Joe Ingles over Bogdanovic if a team was hunting him to this extent, but for now, it made sense to keep Bogdanovic in there and see how he could do in a tough situation. It’s definitely something to watch moving forward.





you think? You are a lot more confident in COTM than I am

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/26/22302038/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-drop-first-back-to-back-loss-miami-heat-jimmy-butler-donovan-mitchell


The Jazz’s shooting in the fourth quarter, in particular the shots from Mitchell and Jordan Clarkson in the final seconds of the game, was horrendous.



Mitchell? How dare you!


The Heat were purposefully attacking Bogdanovic, getting Butler switched onto him in the pick-and-roll over and over and Bogdanovic couldn’t handle it. He picked up his fourth foul with 8:05 left in the third quarter and was on the wrong side of a lot of Butler’s buckets.



again the bigger problem is nothing will change. He'll still be on the team. He'll still start. He'll still play big minutes


Overall the Jazz did not defend well against the Heat. They didn’t get the stops they needed, they were outrebounded by a large margin, missed rotations, left guys wide open and were a little more lax than we’ve seen in a while. Just not a great game overall from the Jazz.



outrebounded by a team playing big/?Maybe A PF?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/26/22304250/utah-jazz-melt-under-the-miami-heat-jimmy-butler-donovan-mitchell-post-game


For the Jazz, they got decent production out of their starters and the team played well enough to hang with the Heat for the majority of the game but it felt like they expended a lot of energy just to keep up and then ran out of gas at the end. Donovan Mitchell filled up the box score with 30 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists but unfortunately missed a late free throw that would have brought the Jazz within 117-118 and then had an unforced turnover on the next possession that sealed Utah’s fate.




30 on 26 shots and 5 TO's! :cheers:


Game MVP
Donovan Mitchell


unreal! :facepalm


i'm not worried about mitchell in the clutch
that clippers loss we had mitchell almost pulled a t-mac. one of the other games (can’t remember which one) he scored or assisted on 20 of the final 21 points. he’s good in the clutch, just couldn’t get it done tonight. got frustrated by miami’s physicality and the whistle not getting called for him and he definitely needs to be more collected in those situations. but overall i really don’t think it’s a problem for him

Posted by Viktor Vaughn (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Viktor%20Vaughn) on Feb 26, 2021 | 10:29 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/26/22304250/utah-jazz-melt-under-the-miami-heat-jimmy-butler-donovan-mitchell-post-game#536993745)



Mitchell lost the Clippers game in the 1st. MVP of that one too probably!


-I’m overall disappointed with the defensive strategy that Q had in the third quarter. Spo ran p/r with Butler/Kelly-O every time down the court to attack BB. Instead of just switching Bogie onto Butler, we tried hard hedging to keep Rolls on JB, which got him going downhill, which put the defense into rotation, which led to open shots or free throws. JB is really good, but if you just switch Bogie onto him, he’s not going to go get an uncontested layup. He’s going to hit him with stepbacks, get his body into him and try to score in the paint. Which is (a) not exactly scary, although Butler can win that matchup, but also, guess what, can do exactly against Royce or any defender in the NBA too, so nothing is really being taken away, and (b) is better than him getting downhill for fouls and/or kickouts to open shooters because of some obsession to have Rolls on him. It also pulls Gobert, unnecessarily, away from rebounding position, so it becomes even more difficult to secure the ball off a miss. Silly, imo.
We did the same exact bullshit against Dragic too. Just switch it. Both JB and GD can win 1:1 matchups that are contested in the middle of the floor. So, what? It’s fine. Let them shoot 10-17’ shots that are defended and aren’t putting the defense in positions to over-rotate or foul because the defender is playing catch-up. It’s just dumb. What’s the worst that can happen? JB hits a shot over Bogie? Fn live with it.
I thought we lost this game defensively because we let JB to go the free throw line and carry Miami’s offense at the stripe because QS felt bedeviled by the possibility that Bogie might have to contest a midrange jumpshot.

Posted by Karl Stalone 32 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Karl%20Stalone%2032) on Feb 27, 2021 | 3:45 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/26/22304250/utah-jazz-melt-under-the-miami-heat-jimmy-butler-donovan-mitchell-post-game#536995801)


How about just play Ingles or Morgan or Niang or Oni...

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Jordan Clarkson, asked if he could see Quin Snyder not being intense coaching at the All-Star Game: “Nah, not really — he’s probably gonna have LeBron getting back on transition defense, have guys crashing the glass.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[RRR3]

38 pages of Xiao talking to himself :biggums:

[Xiao Yao You]

talking to you one of my favorite trolls

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Mike Conley is out tonight for hamstring tightness management (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Quin Snyder on coaching in the ASG: “Competition in the All-Star Game is something else. I don’t intend to put my thumbprint on the game. (https://*********.com/social/) I’m hoping they can give me some advice on how not to screw it up. But no, I don’t have any illusions about why we’re there.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



Sarah Todd: I told Quin Snyder that it’s probably humorous for people to imagine him coaching in a non-intense and more fun way ala All-Star and he said, “Oh, I don’t look like I’m having fun,” with a laugh (https://*********.com/social/). Said he’s looking forward to having some fun and that his wife is very excited too
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Quin Snyder said his wife is excited about him coaching the All-Star game. “She’s excited. When you’ve started in the D League together there’s a gratification about the evolution of your time together.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)



Eric Walden: Steve Clifford on Quin Snyder: “He’s one of the elite coaches. They’re disciplined. They’re the most balanced team in the NBA. (https://*********.com/social/) They have a way to play, and he tinkers with it every offseason. Like I said, they’re the most balanced team, and he’s absolutely absolutely elite.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50115916/from-the-comments-was-utahs-biggest-perceived-weakness-finally-exploited-against-the-heat


If we include that technical, the Heat scored 14 points on the six possessions attacking Bogdanovic. In all, the Jazz were outscored by 18 when Bogdanovic was on the court. So ... a potential problem?




obviously it's a problem. You're trying to hide him and Mitchell and the bigger problem is he's the 2nd tallest guy out there but plays like one of the smallest. Teams with size are going to be a tough matchup as the Heat were with two bigs. Also the fact that Snyder won't bench Bojan and even had him in the game in crunch time despite the strong night Ingles had


The 4th (-0.6) is relatively meaningless considering the Jazz haven't played many meaningful minutes late in games.




wouldn't say it's meaningless because they've lost close games

[Xiao Yao You]

With seemingly no inclination to spend money and pay the luxury tax and, with GM Jon Horst having virtually mortgaged the team’s future — he dealt three No. 1 picks (all unprotected) to acquire Jrue Holiday, the Bucks options are clearly limited. One player who could come at a small price and help them is Glenn Robinson III, who was recently released by Sacramento and whom the Bucks have shown interest in in the past. “I think he’s a solid player,’’ a player personnel official said of Robinson. “His shot is pretty good; his defense is pretty good. I think he’d be a handy pickup for a team like the Bucks looking for an off-the-bench guy.’’ (https://woelfelspressbox.com/2021/02/antetokounmpos-mean-mug-wouldnt-fly-back-in-the-day/)
– via Woelfel's Press Box (https://woelfelspressbox.com/2021/02/antetokounmpos-mean-mug-wouldnt-fly-back-in-the-day/)





and we know the Jazz like him

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/27/22305456/utah-makes-a-little-magic-happen-in-orlando-with-bounce-back-victory


Joe absolutely had a fantastic stat line: 17 points, 7 assists, and 2 rebounds with only 1 turnover whilst chipping in a block and a steal. Despite an uncharacteristic poor shooting game from Joe (just 7-13), he impacted the game much more than the raw box score contributions.




shoots 52% on the year. I guess you're trying to be funny?


I hate Bojan’s lack of defense and lack of rebounding as much or more than anyone else. But if Bojan was there in game five of the denver series, it would have ended there. I strongly believe that. Bojan will have clutch moments come the playoffs that will be remembered for the rest of jazz history. Dude is too good not to.

Posted by hamfist (https://www.sbnation.com/users/hamfist) on Feb 28, 2021 | 9:21 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/2/27/22305456/utah-makes-a-little-magic-happen-in-orlando-with-bounce-back-victory#537032861)


no because the defense would have been even worse. Offense wasn't the problem except game 7

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50116222/from-the-comments-quin-snyder-said-utah-wasnt-allowed-to-be-tired--joe-ingles-was-anyway


A few minutes later, Utah forward Joe Ingles had the following response: "I don't care what he said, I was tired."




you should have still been in the game instead of Bojan

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/2/28/22305871/using-mental-toughness-to-fight-exhaustion-utah-jazz-dug-deep-to-beat-orlando-magic-nba-all-stars


There are going to be games when the Utah Jazz just don’t have the same energy and pep as they do on other nights. There are going to be nights when their legs feel heavy and they have to find a way to push through the weight of the condensed regular season.




Snyder needs to go deeper into his supposedly deep bench if guys are tired

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/1/22307066/common-themes-from-utah-jazzs-7-losses


For example, the Utah Jazz split the season series against the New York Knicks (https://www.postingandtoasting.com/), yet blew out the Milwaukee Bucks (https://www.brewhoop.com/) twice. MIL is certainly a superior team to NYK, so how do we explain a counter-intuitive result?



sometimes you just match up with certain teams better than others. I don't think they match up well with the Lakers which will be a huge issue if I am correct


Every team but MIN has big, powerful forwards. For LAC it’s Leonard and Batum. For BKN it’s Durant and Green. For NYK it’s Barrett and Randle. For DEN it’s Porter Jr. and Millsap. For MIA it’s Butler and Robinson. For PHX it’s Bridges and Crowder. Size at the forward spot means a team can create defensive havoc and/or break a defense caught in a disadvantage with ease.



you think having no PF has anything to do with that?


The most concerning of all these strategies is the isolation since such a scenario often removes Gobert from the defensive equation. The counter is a difficult application of weakside zone or double-teaming and quick rotation. There’s only so much that can be done on the Jazz personnel front to improve the perimeter defense.




Hardly. They have two open roster spots. They have Bojan who needs to go and might have some value to someone hopefully. If they had a PF. O'Neale could concentrate on the perimeter instead of rebounding and guarding bigger players


A great example of talent is the Brooklyn Nets (https://www.netsdaily.com/). Early in the year Utah got hammered by the Nets which resulted in the 2nd worst defensive outing for the Jazz all year. Through half the season, the Nets have the most efficient offense in the league. No wonder they caused us problems. They have a lot of talent.



I'd forget about that game. Totally different team now



All but two teams (BKN, MIA) are even or better in “Points Swing”. “Points Swing” is a metric that calculates the net points scored off turnovers and offensive boards. These 7 teams are good at capitalizing off of extra opportunities, a strategy that helps offset a cold shooting night.



the Jazz turn it over a lot and without a PF these particular teams can get to boards other teams don't


Normally, the 7 opponents Utah lost to score 1.25 PPP in transition. When they faced the Jazz, they scored 1.46 PPP in transition. While they didn’t get in transition as much as usual (see below), they were extremely efficient. Transition defense isn’t one of Utah’s strengths.



another thing that might improve if O'Neale was getting back on D instead of pounding the offensive glass instead of the PF they don't have or won't play


FiveThirtyEight projects the Jazz to finish with the #1 seed in the West by 8 games and Basketball Reference projects the same seed by nearly 9 games. None of these losses will come back to haunt the Jazz towards the end of the regular season.



Who knows? All it could take is Rudy going down for a month again


This is the best chance Utah has to win the chip in 25 years. Whatever it takes to stack the odds and insulate yourself from weakness, Jazz must pursue it.





yep but I doubt they will. There's always next year! :facepalm


These scenarios just support an idea that it’s better to trade Bogie for a defensive player if Jazz wants to ensure higher chances of multiple wins in the playoffs and the title.

Posted by Ray7 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Ray7) on Mar 1, 2021 | 10:59 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/1/22307066/common-themes-from-utah-jazzs-7-losses#537069241)


someone gets it


The question then is who?
I haven’t done enough research but I’m not convinced that Tucker is the answer (probably because of the bias of him coming from the Rockets and trolling Rudy when he got emotional about the all-star snub) and I don’t know who else is available.

Posted by aitken4bacon (https://www.sbnation.com/users/aitken4bacon) on Mar 1, 2021 | 11:10 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/1/22307066/common-themes-from-utah-jazzs-7-losses#537069724)


as far as I'm concerned they'd be better with Morgan so any trade that gets rid of Bojan is a good one. Maybe get under the tax. Maybe improve their depth. Open up another roster space.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/02/28/nba-trade-rumors-prime-target-championship-contender/


Utah Jazz trade target: PJ Tucker



Went into trade machine and I'm not sure how they get him. Maybe if it's a multi team deal?


One potential target that makes a lot of sense is PJ Tucker. The fact that the Houston Rockets wouldn’t be asking a ton in exchange for him makes it even more plausible.




they want someone that can come in and play which is Bojan, Niang and maybe Morgan, Oni and Brantley who they can't trade. Bojan and Niang make sense. Not sure I'd give up Oni for him and certainly not Morgan

[Xiao Yao You]

Adam Spolane: The Rockets are the only team in the NBA without a 5-man lineup that has logged more than 55 minutes (https://*********.com/social/). The Utah Jazz have four 5-man lineups that have played more than 138 minutes
– via Twitter AdamSpolane (https://twitter.com/AdamSpolane)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Rudy Gobert on approaching the March 11 anniversary of being diagnosed with COVID-19. “When you go through some tough times. I think those tough times make you grow.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)



Ben Anderson: Rudy Gobert on potentially playing against a Quin Snyder team. “It would be fun to be on Quin’s team, but it would also be really fun to be against him. Regardless, I think we’re going to talk hopefully a little trash, try to get Quin to get a technical or something.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

he Utah Jazz have the best record in the NBA at 27-7 and yet when it comes to MVP, neither Donovan Mitchell nor Rudy Gobert are given much consideration (https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-clarkson-jazz-want-to-prove-people-wrong-with-or-without-mvp-buzz-for-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-221749322.html). Jordan Clarkson, the clear front-runner for the Sixth Man of the Year award, is the latest guest on the “Posted Up with Chris Haynes” podcast. The 28-year-old guard is averaging a career-high in points (18.1) and shooting 37.1% from behind the arc.
– via Chris Haynes @ Yahoo! Sports (https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-clarkson-jazz-want-to-prove-people-wrong-with-or-without-mvp-buzz-for-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-221749322.html)


In this episode, he discussed the two stars being overlooked for MVP and how the team is unbothered by not receiving acknowledgment. “It doesn’t come up but we definitely praise [Mitchell and Gobert] saying, ‘Yo, you should be in that NBA conversation’ and stuff like that,” Clarkson said on the “Posted Up” pod. “That’s the only conversation that comes out of that. But in terms of worrying about if we’re getting noticed or any of that, I don’t think any of that really seeps into any of our heads. We’re kind of just focused on one thing and that’s winning games and keeping this thing rolling. “I don’t see why they wouldn’t be in the conversation, but hey, it is what it is. We’re just trying to prove people wrong and get better. That’s it.” (https://*********.com/rumors/#)
– via Chris Haynes @ Yahoo! Sports (https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-clarkson-jazz-want-to-prove-people-wrong-with-or-without-mvp-buzz-for-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-221749322.html)



Eric Walden: Quin Snyder, responding to Rudy Gobert earlier saying he hopes to maybe trash-talk him into a technical foul at the All-Star Game: “I don’t think Rudy’s gonna be able to taunt me into it, no matter what he says.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/02/27/nba-power-rankings-lakers-suns-rise/16/

Nets over Jazz :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/sc7-guarding-best-comfy-conley-more/


Also, the Harrison waiver likely means the Jazz will not attempt to dodge the luxury tax this season via a maneuver I had previously described (https://saltcityhoops.com/reader-qa-keeping-conley-tax-man-cometh-trade-ideas-more/). It’s still technically possible, but by waiving Harrison instead of moving him into another team’s cap space or trade exception, the Jazz now how have a $770K cap charge for for the waived guard that they can’t remove from their salary sheet. That makes the likelihood of maneuvering their way under the tax line a bit more complicated.




trade Bojan!

[Xiao Yao You]

“I feel like we’re almost there,” Williamson said. “I really feel like we’re almost there. There’s that final few things we need to figure out, but we’re almost there.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30987932/zion-williamson-new-orleans-pelicans-back-utah-jazz) Consider Monday night’s effort a step in the right direction. Behind Williamson’s charge in the third quarter, the Pelicans toppled the team with the best record in the league, holding on late to defeat the visiting Utah Jazz 129-124.
– via Andrew Lopez @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30987932/zion-williamson-new-orleans-pelicans-back-utah-jazz)



Attacking the basket was the Pelicans’ focus throughout the night. They finished with 74 points in the paint, the most any team has scored in the paint in regulation against the Jazz in the past 25 seasons, according to ESPN Stats & Information research. (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30987932/zion-williamson-new-orleans-pelicans-back-utah-jazz) “It’s crazy that we got to the basket so much with a defensive player like Rudy Gobert, where he’s at the rim all night, every single night,” Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram said of Utah’s All-Star center. “But we made it happen.”
– via Andrew Lopez @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/30987932/zion-williamson-new-orleans-pelicans-back-utah-jazz)



Andrew Lopez: From @ESPNStatsInfo: Zion Williamson became the youngest player in Pels history (20 years, 238 days) with at least 25 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in a game. (https://*********.com/social/) AD was 20-361 when he did it and CP3 was 21-209 when he did it.
– via Twitter _Andrew_Lopez (https://twitter.com/_Andrew_Lopez)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454372/jazz-run-out-of-gas-against-pelicans/


“Every team in the league is going to be fatigued right now,” Jazz coach Quin Snyder said. “That’s something we just have to play through. We can still communicate, we had breakdowns in pick and roll where he didn’t switch. Just a lot of different things and if you have to think harder and be more urgent, those are things that you can control.”




You could extend the rotation of supposedly suck a deep team. Why not put in a fresh body? Morgan can certainly play and Oni will at least play hard if nothing else

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50117150/the-utah-jazz-better-get-used-to-being-the-hunted


Teams are getting up to play them — talented ones. Take the Pelicans for example. It's somewhat surprising New Orleans (now 15-19) has struggled as much as it has this season. Williamson is a beast, Brandon Ingram is a former All-Star, JJ Reddick is one of the all-time best shooters, Lonzo Ball and Eric Bledsoe are better than serviceable guards. This team should flat out be better than its record. The Jazz brought that team out.




suck at D as we saw so no they shouldn't be

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/1/22308613/utah-jazz-lose-to-zion-williamson-new-orleans-pelicans-129-124-game-recap


Yikes. I don’t even know what to say about this quarter. This could not have gone much worse for Utah. The spotty defense from the 2nd turned absolutely terrible in the 3rd. I hate to say it but Derrick Favors is not Derrick Favors right now. The Jazz spent big money to ensure they had great backup center minutes behind Rudy Gobert and that is just not happening right now. I don’t know if the guy needs some nights off to get a little more healthy or what but it’s hurting. Either way the Jazz coughed up the lead and then just bombed the quarter away to the tune of a 99-88 defect to end the 3rd.




Could have had Bradley cheap and got a starting PF instead


Things to fix:
Poor first quarters
Rebounding
Jazz on a 18 game winning streak with those two issues resolved

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 1, 2021 | 11:43 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/1/22308613/utah-jazz-lose-to-zion-williamson-new-orleans-pelicans-129-124-game-recap#537094505)


only so much you can do with the rebounding with the current rotation and I doubt it will change

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/03/01/utah-jazz-indulging-one-drought/

who cares?

[Xiao Yao You]

The team hopes that Harris can return on Wednesday against the Utah Jazz (https://sports.yahoo.com/sixers-hope-tobias-harris-return-050039504.html?src=rss) in their final game before the All-Star break. “I hope so,” said coach Doc Rivers. “He really tried to play tonight, but we more made the call tonight. We need him, hopefully, we can get him back next game.”
– via Ky Carlin @ Yahoo! Sports (https://sports.yahoo.com/sixers-hope-tobias-harris-return-050039504.html?src=rss)

[Xiao Yao You]

Shams Charania: Sources: The NBA and NBPA are planning to eliminate the 50-game limit for two-way contract players this season and to allow two-way players to be eligible for the playoffs, pending Board approval (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter ShamsCharania (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania)



Shams Charania: This provides some flexibility for players and teams during the pandemic season. Two-way players who exceed 50 active games would then have compensation moved to their minimum based on years of service, sources said (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter ShamsCharania (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania)





Kind of lame now. Jazz had been holding Brantley out cuz of that I think

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sports.yahoo.com/76ers-host-jazz-clash-conference-192741338.html


"When we're better defensively, the offense takes care of itself," Gobert said. "And we've seen that many times earlier in the season, when our mind is not in the right place. When we don't play the kind of defense that we know we can play, it usually affects our offense, too. And those nights are usually not our best nights."




but the media will keep telling you it's all about the 3's!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://*********.com/2021/02/09/utah-jazz-bojan-bogdanovic-mike-conley-donovan-mitchell-royce-oneale/

[Xiao Yao You]

JD Shaw: Jazz head coach Quin Snyder and Brooklyn Nets head coach Steve Nash have been named the Western and Eastern Conference Coaches of the Month (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter JShawNBA (https://twitter.com/JShawNBA)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Quin Snyder is the only coach in @Utah Jazz history to be named Coach of the Month in consecutive months (https://*********.com/social/). #TakeNote
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)





poor Jerry

[Xiao Yao You]

Ky Carlin: Tobias Harris is questionable for tomorrow’s game (https://*********.com/social/) with the Jazz and Joel Embiid is not listed on the injury report #Sixers
– via Twitter Ky_Carlin (https://twitter.com/Ky_Carlin)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454448/jazz-can-carry-momentum-into-break-with-win-over-76ers/


In undoubtedly the greatest postseason performance (https://kslsports.com/440038/historic-performance-from-mitchell-not-even-against-nuggets/) in Jazz history, Donovan Mitchell tied the third-highest scoring output in franchise history with 57 points.




a loss in the bubble so no :facepalm


In addition to his huge scoring total, the guard also grabbed nine rebounds and handed out seven assists in the loss.




and helped give up 135

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50117504/from-the-comments-ranking-utahs-losses-and-a-quick-chat-about-referees


Jan. 5 @ Nets, 130-96: Brooklyn was without Kevin Durant and hadn't yet acquired James Harden, but the Jazz still lost by 34.



but had Allen


The first: Rudy Gobert got whistled for an over-the-back foul on Zion Williamson — something Gobert said was "a terrible call." The Jazz franchise center is taller and longer than Williamson. While there was some contact, it looked pretty minimal, especially with how the game had been called to that point. Williamson scored 26 points Monday by bowling into Jazz defenders in the paint. If those weren't worthy of calls, why would a slight touch on him be one?




it's a foul and on the NBA's new darling


The second: Conley leaning in to try and draw a foul that never came. Utah's initial action had been blown up, but there was really no need to panic here. The Jazz were down 3 and there were still 20 seconds on the game clock and 15 seconds on the shot clock. Conley didn't need to rush a look, but he leaned into Eric Bledsoe and put up a shot that was nowhere close. It was like he was hoping the refs would make what some would have considered a make-up call (another tendency that brings great annoyance).




good no call


In those seven games, the Jazz are 3-4. That's not a great record, but not terribly off league-average (only 14 teams have an over .500 record in such games).




only half the teams! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021


Should the Utah Jazz be Looking to Make a Move?



obviously but I doubt they will


I always think that teams should be looking to get better, no matter how good they are.
So I definitely think the Jazz should be active in looking for trade opportunities. But I don’t want them to make a trade just to make a trade. Only do it if it really makes the team better


Posted by Calvin Chappell on Mar 2, 2021 | 10:20 AM


someone gets it and they obviously have weaknesses


if they make a trade, it will obviously be because they think it will help them this year. The Jazz needs to think short-term right now.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Mar 2, 2021 | 1:19 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537113336)


This year they should be all in but that doesn't mean they shouldn't look long term as well. Getting under the tax might help in the future as would more flexibility to sign Conley


Jazz could snag either with a trade exception and some sweetener.
Would love to see Richaun Holmes on the team. Bjelica, too.
Don’t know how such trades would affect cap space.

Posted by boredwiththeUSA (https://www.sbnation.com/users/boredwiththeUSA) on Mar 2, 2021 | 12:51 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537112081)


Bjelica could certainly be a fit


I don’t know that it makes sense to re-sign Conley beyond this season because he is getting older and will most definitely decline. Now would be an opportunity to trade high.
Also, Conley’s skillset overlaps with Mitchell/Clarkson. We just don’t really need that type of player.
But, if we are strictly thinking about this season, Bogey+Oni for Grant would be great. I don’t see why Detroit does that though. They would rather have an expiring contract and draft picks.
(As a side note, re-signing Conley or trading Conley for another long-term contract would both put the Jazz deep into luxury tax territory next season and beyond, and Agent Smith may not be willing to do that.)

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Mar 2, 2021 | 2:13 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537115588)


without Conley they aren't the best team in the league. :facepalm


Even with mediocre defense from Bogey and Faves, we’re still comfortably top-10 in defensive efficiency by virtually any measure. Now is not the time to hit the panic button.

Posted by GregOstertagged (https://www.sbnation.com/users/GregOstertagged) on Mar 2, 2021 | 1:17 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537113249)


Bradley for Favors and no PF not looking so good is it?


tho not a big boggy fan, just not sure he brings back enough to warrant trading him. conley as an expiring might be of value to some team, but unless someone like the knicks is willing to trade you randle for him why would you do it? the other guy who would draw interest is ingles. i just can’t visualize a return that is better than what ingles is already doing for the jazz (he just has to shoot more).
this probably the season to sit tight, and play the cards you got.

Posted by utahcoyote (https://www.sbnation.com/users/utahcoyote) on Mar 2, 2021 | 1:31 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537113903)


I think Bojan for no one could make them better. Morgan starts. Get under tax. Fill the roster spots with vets. Hughes is another guy I'd try to throw in


Once Dok gets back from his injury I think he will be a respectable 3rd center.
He is still a rookie and underdeveloped, which is worrisome, but he has enough energy I think. Plus his play style is similar to Gobert and Favors, so bringing him off the bench wouldn’t mess up schemes. However, I’m sure the FO is looking into the exact type of trade you mentioned at the end. Not saying they will or that another team will want it, but I’d imagine they thinks it’s probably at least worth a phone call.

Posted by PianoGuy13 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/PianoGuy13) on Mar 2, 2021 | 6:09 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537123445)


4th center. A project that has proven nothing


Quin Snyder is the best thing to happen to the Jazz in the last decade.

Posted by PianoGuy13 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/PianoGuy13) on Mar 2, 2021 | 6:05 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/2/22309292/utah-jazz-nba-trade-deadline-2021#537123260)


you mean Gobert? :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://basketball.realgm.com/analysis/261692/Utah-Is-Trying-To-Break-Basketball


When the Jazz do lose, though—again, this is rare—it does appear to be about more than a random and unlikely-to-repeat blip of shooting accuracy variance. In other words, they have hibernating flaws, unusually inconspicuous because of the unique shape of the land they’re currently dominating in. The kinds of things it takes to beat them are what teams are doing less and less of in this hyper-strained season, but they’re not exactly rare basketball activities. When the Miami Heat simply badly out-rebounded them as they recently did in victory over the Jazz, for example, it does leave one realizing that Utah can probably not continue to get away with playing the 6’4” O’Neale at power forward in the more physical postseason, and still expect to get as many shots as their opponent.



was obvious last year. The fact that they signed Davis/Bojan last year and Favors this year instead of a 4 is mind blowing!


The Los Angeles Clippers, too, recently called the Jazz on their night-in-night-out size gamble, and won the bet. But they did it an arguably more modernist way than what Utah’s max-spacing approach represents; the Clippers beat the Jazz without even seeing heavy minutes from a traditional center. This was obviously just one game, but it does underline what was more prominently visible in a bad loss to the Denver Nuggets, in which Nikola Jokic abused the Jazz on his way to a 47-point performance that stands tall in his MVP campaign resume: the Jazz and, more specifically, Gobert, don’t fare well against elite size. Gobert is clearly top of the sport when it comes to preventing guards from scoring at the rim, but at stopping centers and bigger forwards (like those of the Clippers) in the restricted area, he is noticeably prone to being pushed around.




Rudy is the least of their worries

[Xiao Yao You]

But don’t diminish Turner based on one historically challenging matchup. He should still be a frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year Award, if not the favorite to win the award over the likes of Embiid, Rudy Gobert and others, at least based on his body of work so far this season. Here’s why: For one, Turner leads the league in blocks at 3.4 per game, and it isn’t particularly close. Gobert came into the Philly game second in that category, 11 blocks behind. (https://theathletic.com/2424215/2021/03/03/kravitz-the-case-for-pacers-myles-turner-winning-defensive-player-of-the-year/?source=rss) Of course, leading the league in blocks isn’t necessarily the litmus test; in 2018-19, Turner led the league in blocks and didn’t get a sniff of the award. It’s why he knew that if he wanted to bolster his candidacy, he needed to add some subtle elements to his defensive game.
– via Bob Kravitz @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2424215/2021/03/03/kravitz-the-case-for-pacers-myles-turner-winning-defensive-player-of-the-year/?source=rss)





blocks mean little


No player contests more shots per game within six feet of the basket than Turner (10.5) and he allows a minus-16.2 percent difference in field goal percentage on these attempts (https://theathletic.com/2424215/2021/03/03/kravitz-the-case-for-pacers-myles-turner-winning-defensive-player-of-the-year/?source=rss). He’s not just blocking shots; he’s altering shots, making plays with his quick feet and hands and giving the Pacers one of the top — if not the top — rim protectors in the game. “It’s funny, his rookie year, he was amazing; I got to see him on the USA Select Team and thought he was the best player on the whole team. He was unbelievable,” Sixers coach Doc Rivers said. “He’s turned out to be a different kind of player than I thought he would be.
– via Bob Kravitz @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2424215/2021/03/03/kravitz-the-case-for-pacers-myles-turner-winning-defensive-player-of-the-year/?source=rss)





Rudy gets less chances for blocks because people won't go near him.

[Xiao Yao You]

After Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell was hit with technical fouls on two separate plays in the final minute of overtime and was ejected with 30.5 seconds to go in Utah’s 131-123 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, the All-Star said he’s tired of the Jazz being “screwed” by the referees, calling the way his team’s games are officiated “f—ing ridiculous.” “First off, you know, give the 76ers credit. They played a hard game. Joel [Embiid] did what he does, and at the end of the day, they’re a good team. We competed. But it’s tough. It’s tough to go out there and see how we fight and compete, and to have a game like that taken from us,” Mitchell said Wednesday night (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games).
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)



“Now, I’m never ever one to blame a ref, to blame an official — I can say I could have done more — but this is getting out of hand. There have been games like this that we’ve won, there have been games like this that we’ve lost. But this whole refereeing stuff. (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games) … We’re nice, we don’t complain, like, we don’t get frustrated, we fight through things, and the fact that we continually get … screwed, in a way, by this. You know?
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)




“We won this game, in my personal opinion. You know? But like I said, I’m going to give them credit. They won. Whatever. Cool. But it’s been a consistent thing, and the question is, ‘Can we do it? Can we sustain it? Are we for real No. 1? And, yeah the hell we are. And it’s getting f—ing ridiculous, that this is what is happening.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)




“We have a whole second half of the season to go and get ready for, and I’m sick of it, to be honest with you,” Mitchell said. “We all are. This is something that just it eats me. It eats at me, man (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games). “Y’all know what it is. We all know what it is. But it’s really getting out of hand. It’s really, really, really getting out of hand. And the league needs to do something about this. “I want to see the last two-minute report. I want to see it. But it’s getting out of hand.”
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)



That disparity also drew the ire of Gobert, Utah’s other All-Star — who, like Mitchell, also earned himself a certain fine from the NBA sometime Thursday after repeatedly calling out the officials during his own postgame media session. “Our guys are not able to get calls everybody else in the f—ing league gets,” Gobert said. “We know we are the Utah Jazz, and maybe some people don’t want to see us go as far as we can go, but it’s disappointing (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games). “Three times in a row, Mike Conley is going to the rim, and they’re grabbing him right in front of the officials and there’s no calls. And, on the other end, there are calls that are invisible that are being made.
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)



Gobert went on to say he believed the Jazz were being treated unfairly because they play in a small market. “I don’t want to say that,” Gobert said, “but I really believe it. After playing in this league for eight years, it’s a little harder [to be in a small market], and that’s one of the things that we’ve got to overcome. That’s why I told the guys, ‘When you’re a small market, you’ve got to be better than just better. You’ve got to be elite, and you’ve got to control what you can control.’ (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000780/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-blast-officiating-utah-jazz-games)



Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid said his dominant performance in a 131-123 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night was fueled by playing against star Rudy Gobert (https://africa.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000890/sixers-joel-embiid-states-case-defensive-hardware-all-gem-vs-jazz). Embiid, who had 40 points — including the game-tying 3-pointer with 6.5 seconds left to go with 19 rebounds, three assists, a steal and two blocks in 40 minutes — told ESPN’s Jackie MacMullan in December that Gobert shouldn’t have been third-team All-NBA last season over him. He also has said repeatedly he wants to win Defensive Player of the Year — an award Gobert is favored to win this season — and took exception to local media members saying he was “scared” of playing against the Jazz big man after missing Philadelphia’s loss in Utah last month with a back injury.
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN.com (https://africa.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000890/sixers-joel-embiid-states-case-defensive-hardware-all-gem-vs-jazz)



“As we saw tonight, it looks like I was very, very scared of him,” Embiid said, his voice dripping in sarcasm. “So, yeah, keep talking. “But going up against him, one of my goals is to also be Defensive Player of the Year. (https://africa.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000890/sixers-joel-embiid-states-case-defensive-hardware-all-gem-vs-jazz) So, you know, when you go up against those types of guys, he’s a great player, and you know, he does a lot for his team that don’t show up on the stat sheet … but when you go against those guys, you know, it brings something else to my game.
– via Tim Bontemps @ ESPN.com (https://africa.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31000890/sixers-joel-embiid-states-case-defensive-hardware-all-gem-vs-jazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tim Bontemps: Doc Rivers says he thinks Ben Simmons and Rudy Gobert are 1-2 in the Defensive Player of the Year race, and says that Simmons should get the edge, while admitting he is biased, because Simmons guards players at all five positions (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter TimBontemps (https://twitter.com/TimBontemps)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454516/jazz-suffer-third-loss-in-four-games-enter-all-star-break-with-overtime-loss-to-76ers/


Mitchell scored 33 points to lead the Jazz in a 131-123 loss to the Sixers. The loss was Utah’s second straight and third in four games.




:roll:

He was awful. Still trying to prove something to Ben Simmons I guess? What's with all the iso and ball pounding? Selfish play!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/04/triple-team-nba-referees/


That needs to be fixed, and fast: officials can’t kowtow to players who yell at them, while giving bad calls to players who play respectfully.




yeah right :lol


• Conley got clearly fouled on two consecutive drives without a whistle. Like, you tell me: does Matisse Thybulle get all ball here on Conley’s shot, or does he make a heck of a lot of contact with Conley’s arm?




it doesn't look that bad. I'm sure some calls went against the Sixers too. Usually evens out. If Utah played any D in the 2nd half they win


If the refs hadn’t been calling elbow-in-the-side, push-in-the-back calls on the other end, this wouldn’t be a conversation. But the crew swallows their whistles here — until they make a terrible call for Mitchell’s free throws in the end. That really should be an offensive foul, as Mitchell makes all of the contact illegally. Though honestly, with how the league is calling jump shot fouls right now, who knows... that needs to be addressed.



defensive players have no chance


• I’m just blown away by this call. Matt Harpring’s right... Simmons’ right arm is hooking Mitchell’s. It’s a terrible missed call.

that one is bad. Bigger problem was Mitchell thinking he needs to play 1 on 5

• The Sixers changed their offense to just target Bojan Bogdanovic in overtime, even to the extent of taking the ball out of their MVP candidate’s hands. That’s the second team in a week that did that, and it’s got to be a huge worry for the Jazz. If this is happening now, in the regular season, teams are going to target it for four quarters in the playoffs. We’ll see if a week of rest rejuvenates Bogdanovic, but if it doesn’t, the Jazz will either need to change their scheme to try to hide Bogdanovic more or simply sub him out at the end of games — cratering his value to the team.




Why would it change? If it's not Bojan they'll target Mitchell


• Mitchell finished the game with 10 consecutive misses. He was on tilt because of the officiating, but yeah, that wasn’t great. He’s an inconsistent clutch player, sometimes brilliant, sometimes maddening.




and all too often selfish


• The Jazz weren’t able to get their usual assortment of offensive rebounds against the big, physical Sixers. I think that’s a legitimate concern for the playoffs, too: will the Jazz get all the free second chances they got in most of their games during the regular season?




should have been a concern after last year but here we are with Favors getting roasted and still no PF


• The Jazz nearly won this game through sheer math alone... limiting a team in 2021 to 8-25 shooting from three is a huge advantage. The same was also almost true against the Pelicans; against the Pelicans, they couldn’t protect the paint, against the Sixers, they couldn’t stop sending them to the line.




Embiid gets to the line

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/3/22312699/utah-jazz-lose-a-tough-one-to-the-philadelphia-76ers-nba-officials-donovan-mitchell-ejected


Obviously it’s hard to expect officials to be in the perfect spot on every play but in tonight's game, that official being in the way of the play literally cost the Jazz the game. The refs HAVE to be better than that. Please, NBA Officials, get out of the way of the play!




bad D and selfish play from their so called superstar cost them the game


On the biggest shot of the night, Joel Embiid hit a contested three to tie the game that went into overtime. Although, did it even have to happen? Utah could have fouled in this situation and held them to two free throws. It’s probably something they should look at for future situations like this.




You forget COTM is smarter than you


There were also some situations at the end of the game that Utah needs to figure out. Bojan Bogdanovic had a solid 3-point shooting night going 4/10 from three but in overtime the Sixers went right at him multiple times and got buckets each and every trip. Utah needs to figure this out. They either need to find some way to hide him on the defensive end, or they need to look at putting in another player. Joe Ingles maybe? Could they bring in Derrick Favors at the 4? Something different?




again COTM


I'm gonna disagree on one point...
… in that Mitchell taking hero ball shots is his right. What Utah was doing in the game was working. The blender was in full effect. We were getting open 3s. Mitchell taking over when he did disrupted that flow. There are games where he does it and it’s totally the right thing to do. That’s when the blender is off or when it’s a cold shooting night from outside for more than just one or two guys. Then he goes solo because that’s the best thing we got. But what he did tonight in the fourth cost the Jazz the win. He shot them out of the game. It’s out of character for how he’s played this whole season, so I don’t think it’s a long-term worry, but to give him a pass on it for this game is wrong.

Posted by Junior McSpiffy (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Junior%20McSpiffy) on Mar 3, 2021 | 11:10 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/3/22312699/utah-jazz-lose-a-tough-one-to-the-philadelphia-76ers-nba-officials-donovan-mitchell-ejected#537180514)



yep! :cheers:


Anybody think
Adam silver does something crazy, and like….. removes donovan from the all star game?
I think we all knew there were gonna be post game fines, but OOOOF….. dm’s post game interview was maybe one of the strongest complaints I’ve seen from an NBA player in years….
I could see dm getting a suspension lmao….

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 4, 2021 | 5:47 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/3/22312699/utah-jazz-lose-a-tough-one-to-the-philadelphia-76ers-nba-officials-donovan-mitchell-ejected#537183051)



yeah right! :oldlol:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/3/22310684/utah-jazz-defense-is-slacking


Utah’s problems in the last few games largely boil down to issues on one side of the ball. Offensively, they’ve maintained great play with the league’s second-best offensive rating since Feb. 18 and their shooting numbers are just as great in that span. The Jazz simply aren’t stopping teams as they did during the win streak. In that brilliant 21-game run where they won 20 times (17 by double-digits), eight of Utah’s opponents failed to score 100 points and 15 failed to reach the league average point total (112.1).




like last year. Maybe it wasn't all Bradley's fault after all?


Throwing off this slump and just winning more regular-season games won’t silence those critics, but it’ll mean that Utah is capable of adjusting. In seasons past, the Jazz found a groove, Quin Snyder stuck to what worked but eventually what worked stopped working. It’ll take creativity to stay ahead of the pack.




COTM!


As a final note, this isn’t the first time this season I’ve criticized Utah’s defense for not living up to previous seasons under Snyder (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/1/6/22217273/utah-jazz-defense-quin-snyder-rudy-gobert). The Jazz at the time were below-average on defense and had a record of 4-3 when the article was published, 4-4 by the end of the night. Since that criticism, my assertion that Utah could no longer hang its hat on defense was thoroughly proven wrong. Except that right now the Jazz are back to being the team it was in the first eight games.





Even with their rating their defense isn't consistently great which says a lot about the current NBA I guess


Effort
Defense isn’t the only thing killing the Jazz. Rebounding has been deplorable for the last couple of weeks as well. Defense and rebounding are all about effort. I love the Jazz playing with swagger and walking onto the court every night expecting to win instead of hoping to win. But effort is required to back up that swagger. Swagger without effort yields losses.

Posted by jmnunes5 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/jmnunes5) on Mar 3, 2021 | 1:30 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/3/22310684/utah-jazz-defense-is-slacking#537155729)



the rebounding has a lot to do with their lack of size


The thing is, the Jazz have all the pieces to be a phenomenal defensive team
as is obvious by the fact that we’re top-5 in most defensive metrics. But yeah, the NOP and MIA games were brutal, especially because Butler was really the first guy all year who seriously hurt us from the midrange. Most of our losses have been from teams going nuclear from three; the Heat loss was because we were willing to give up midrange shots and Dragic and Butler are the perfect duo to destroy that kind of defense.

Posted by GregOstertagged (https://www.sbnation.com/users/GregOstertagged) on Mar 3, 2021 | 2:58 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/3/22310684/utah-jazz-defense-is-slacking#537160146)



I'm not convinced. Gobert, O'Neale, Ingles and Conley play D. Mitchell and Bojan are horrible. Favors is not Gobert as many like to say. Not sure he's even Bradley. Niang and Clarkson at least go hard at that end. Put in Morgan instead of Bojan and things would change a lot

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/03/02/donovan-mitchell-championship-jazz-superstar/


Utah Jazz: Donovan Mitchell is proving he can be a No. 1 on a championship team



he is?

[Xiao Yao You]

The Spurs are receiving calls on their veteran players who are pending free agents — LaMarcus Aldridge, DeMar DeRozan, Rudy Gay, Trey Lyles and Patty Mills — and are listening to inquiries, (https://theathletic.com/2425373/2021/03/04/nba-trade-news-rumors-blake-griffin-p-j-tucker-andre-drummond-shams/) sources said.
– via Shams Charania @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425373/2021/03/04/nba-trade-news-rumors-blake-griffin-p-j-tucker-andre-drummond-shams/)





they want Bojan?

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz were in Denver on Dec. 13, 2013. A bad team that would finish with a bad record, caught between two worlds: Figuring out how to compete with a young core of unproven talent coupled with former greats who were playing closer to their collective dusk than dawn. The Jazz coaching staff told Gobert he’d be catching a flight to Bakersfield. Gobert was a DNP-coaching decision the night Utah upset the Nuggets to improve to … 6-19. The Jazz assigned Gobert and fellow rookie guard Ian Clark to the Bakersfield Jam of the NBA Developmental League — the D-League before the G League — that night in the Mile High City. “When I came to the league,” Gobert told The Athletic, “I told myself I was never going to play in the D-League.” (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)
– via Christopher Kamrani @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)



When he got to Bakersfield for that D-League assignment, he stayed put in the hotel because the coaches asked him to. The Jam arena is in the Bakersfield neighborhood of Oildale, a central California town long known for its extreme poverty levels and permeating drug issues. (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8) The town had its own unofficial “Heroin Alley.” So when Gobert arrived, former Jam coach Will Voigt just told him to relax, watch TV, watch film and, when possible, work out at the basketball facility. “That would be a culture shock to just about anybody, let alone a Parisian,” Voigt said. “He was not going to find a croissant and an espresso anywhere around there.”
– via Christopher Kamrani @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)



And he had expectations as high as his massive wingspan could reach for. Gobert harbors the angst from doubters he’s had along his path. He said this week that he still remembers people in France and in the media saying he was too much of a “project player” to evolve in the NBA. It’s why his aversion to the D-League was heightened. Gobert wanted to prove he could be what he knew he could develop into, while also casting a long pall on those skeptics. “He was hardheaded, didn’t want to listen, and he was just trying to be a player that he wasn’t,” said John Lucas III, Utah’s third point guard Gobert’s rookie season. “We all saw something special in Rudy, and obviously the Jazz did, too.” (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)
– via Christopher Kamrani @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)



Gobert’s show of emotion after a practice in 2019 when he wasn’t named to the All-Star squad was mocked by some but embraced as a real moment by others. “The thing for me and my story is that it’s always been that way for me,” he said when referencing his career in basketball up to this point. “It’s not like people were always telling me, ‘There you go, you made it, you’re in the league.’ No. I’ve been rejected my whole career. I’ve been disrespected my whole career. It’s kind of the story of my life.” (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)
– via Christopher Kamrani @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425030/2021/03/04/rudy-gobert-transformation-into-utah-jazz-all-star-started-in-the-d-league-you-have-to-be-able-to-show-you-dont-belong-there/?fbclid=IwAR2bdll8xiX5-LtFsC7jHqOQaH2OJRxsp5LjRrGWQf4y4zpqM5AlsdZzWc8)





Should have spent ore time in the Dleague that first year. He wasn't physically ready

[Xiao Yao You]

Kyle Neubeck: Last 2 minute report from Sixers-Jazz admits to six errors: 3 incorrect no calls on Utah (another Gobert foul on Embiid, missed travel on Bogdanovic, missed 3 sec for Gobert) 3 incorrect no calls on Philadelphia (kicked ball by Simmons, Embiid fouling Mitchell, travel by Harris) – via Twitter KyleNeubeck




as I said they usually even out. Play D and pass the ball and you win

[Xiao Yao You]

Chris Fedor: There’s a growing belief around the league that the Cavs are going to have to get creative with an Andre Drummond trade. (https://open.spotify.com/show/533CSeuiEK6Yun8I45mM50) That means three or four teams involved. It’s doable, especially because they have the contract of Cedi Osman and also Taurean Prince. But if they have to go the route of a three or four team, expect Cedi Osman to be part of that deal or talked about as part of that deal.
– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/533CSeuiEK6Yun8I45mM50)





Prince would be a good get and Bojan makes a lot of sense for the Cavs. They have no one listed at the 3 other than Cedi. Rather have Nance than Prince though it doesn't sound like they want to give up Nance. Wade and Windler filler if needed. Hughes and Niang filler if needed for Jazz. Get it done

Gobert/Favors/Udoka
Nance/Morgan/Brantley/Wade
ONeale/Oni
Mitchell/Clarkson/Windler
Conley/Ingles/Forrest

Get under tax. 2 open roster spots for buyouts. More size. More flexibility to bring back Conley

[Xiao Yao You]

Is this Utah Jazz team legitimate? Jordan Clarkson: Yeah, I think we are legitimate. We’ve got a lot of talented guys that can make plays. We’ve got a defensive anchor, Rudy Gobert, Derrick Favors coming out of the bench for us. Royce O’Neale I’ve been calling him like ‘First team all-defense’ because he goes out there every night. (https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-clarkson-talks-sixth-man-of-the-year-utahs-lack-of-national-coverage-and-more-212108033.html) And he gets the best player on the floor. He’s doing all the hard work while we’re out there shooting threes and making it look pretty. But yeah, we got two big time stars in Donovan Mitchell and Rudy… My thing has always been day to day, waking up the next day, we just try to be better than that day and win the game.
– via Vincent Goodwill @ Yahoo! Sports (https://sports.yahoo.com/jordan-clarkson-talks-sixth-man-of-the-year-utahs-lack-of-national-coverage-and-more-212108033.html)



“For some reason, a lot of f*cking moments are against the Pelicans,” New Orleans guard Josh Hart told ********* while laughing. “Either someone scoring against the Pelicans, Rudy Gobert blocking my damn layup, or some bullsh*t like that. We played the Jazz. I think Gobert’s getting into it (Top Shot). He had a dunk. It wasn’t on me, but I was in the general vicinity, and he knows I do Top Shot. He looked at me while we were running back and he said like, ‘There’s a Top Shot moment right there.’ I was like, ‘Ah, f*ck you.’” (https://*********.com/lists/nba-top-shot-money/)
– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/lists/nba-top-shot-money/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454568/darrell-dr-dunkenstein-griffith-picked-as-greatest-dunker-in-utah-jazz-history/


The other Jazz players to receive votes included Donovan Mitchell (33.3 percent), Karl Malone (16.7 percent), and Jeremy Evans (4.2 percent).




Karl! :roll:

How about Blue? Hard to argue with Grif

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50119233/from-the-comments-were-the-refs-really-to-blame-for-the-jazzs-loss-at-philadelphia


Officials aside, the Jazz were pretty bad in the closing minutes. The Jazz were actually 1-for-10 in the final five minutes, including going 1-for-7 from 3-point range. And Mitchell was the key culprit.




the D was bad the 2nd half. Get tired of you saying they lose because they aren't making shots when they put up 123.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/4/22312082/last-two-minute-report-six-incorrect-calls-utah-jazz-loss-to-philadelphia-sixers-donovan-mitchell


Of course, as its name implies, the report does not list any of the plays from outside the final two minutes that were missed or called incorrectly.




which is stupid. Plays at the end aren't more important than others

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/espns-e60-to-air-feature-on-jazzs-gobert/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/how-to-utah-jazz-fan/2021/3/5/22314848/its-time-for-the-utah-jazz-to-embrace-what-they-are-destined-to-be-the-villain


And this doesn’t just go for Jazz fans, it’s time for the Jazz players to not be so nice any more. It’s time for Rudy Gobert to stand his ground in the paint and never back down. If the incompetent NBA officials are going to call him for ridiculous fouls then make them count here and there like Karl Malone once did. No more flopping.




flops get the calls sadly

[Xiao Yao You]

That answer could have partly to do with Griffin’s point-per-possession marks, which aren’t quite as ugly as his other marks in 2020-21. Taking a look at Synergy Sports, we can see Griffin is still an ‘excellent’ point producer as a pick-and-roll ball-handler and a ‘very good’ scorer in transition and as the roll man in pick-and-roll sets. (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/) That type of versatile scoring is hard to find, particularly players who can produce as both the creator and finisher in all-important pick-and-roll sets, so crucial in the modern NBA.
– via Frank Urbina @ ********* (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/)




Griffin’s most effective play type this season by far has been as the pick-and-roll ball-handler, unique for a traditional power forward. Out of those sets, Griffin has posted 38 possessions and produced 43 points, good for a 1.132 point-per-possession (PPP) mark, which places him in the 93rd percentile league-wide, per Synergy, in what’s considered the ‘excellent’ range. The minimal sample size needs to be taken into account, but just for fun, let’s look at what top forwards are posting in the same pick-and-roll ball-handler play type this season, according to Synergy: First-time All-Star Zion Williamson is right behind Griffin in PPP at 1.108, Kevin Durant is even further behind at 1.011 PPP while LeBron James is at 0.917 PPP on that play type this season (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/).
– via Frank Urbina @ ********* (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/)



What’s more, in transition opportunities this season, Griffin has scored 20 points on 16 chances, good for 1.125 PPP, placing him in the 74th percentile in the NBA this year, per Synergy. (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/) Meanwhile, as the roll man, he’s produced 12 points on just 10 opportunities, a 1.2 PPP mark, one that puts him in the NBA’s 70th percentile.
– via Frank Urbina @ *********
(https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/)




Additionally, the fact that Griffin is still finishing 61.2 percent of his shot attempts from within five feet of the basket, a higher clip than far more explosive wings in Aaron Gordon (59.0 percent) and Kelly Oubre Jr. (59.0 percent), or even than first-time All-Star power forward Julius Randle (57.6 percent), (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/) further indicates that Griffin likely has more left in the tank than his raw and advanced statistics would let on.
– via Frank Urbina @ ********* (https://*********.com/2021/03/05/blake-griffin-free-agency-rumors-how-griffin-can-help-contenders/)





That's why I think he could fit with the Jazz. His 3 point shooting and defense would be the concerns. But he'd be wide open so maybe he could hit the corner 3's? He certainly couldn't be worse than Mitchell and Bojan defensively

[Xiao Yao You]

League sources indicate Bjelica and guard Cory Joseph are two veterans the Kings could part with by the March 25 trade deadline. Bjelica is in the last year of his deal and, per our Shams Charania, is known to be drawing interest. (https://theathletic.com/2429382/?source=twitterhq) Joseph has just $2.4 million of his salary for 2021-22 guaranteed.
– via Sam Amick, Jason Jones, Sam Amick and Jason Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2429382/?source=twitterhq)


Bjelica could be a fit

[Xiao Yao You]

Larry Nance Jr: Hope everyone is having a happy Friday….. except those people that keep putting me in their mock trades (https://*********.com/social/tweets/)
– via Twitter Larrydn22 (https://twitter.com/Larrydn22)





I like this guy!

[Xiao Yao You]

Stars are done. Not much good came out of it. Hughes wasn't as good as Wright Forman like I figured. Don't get what they saw in him at all. Tucker had a big game in this last one. A few guys I'd expect to see in the mix in summer league and going into next season

[Xiao Yao You]

Jorge Sierra: Only four players made their All-Star debut at an older age than Mike Conley this season: (https://*********.com/social/) Kyle Korver Anthony Mason Sam Cassell Nat Clifton pic.twitter.com/0uBMAabYp0
– via Twitter ********* (https://twitter.com/*********)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454663/utah-jazz-all-star-mail-bag/


Third, Quin Snyder doesn’t look to have any interest in resting his players. I thought the Jazz looked worn out by the end of the first half of the regular season, hence the three losses in four games, but the Jazz seem determined to push through that.




never has. Only a matter of time before someone gets hurt while he refuses to go to the end of his bench with a huge lead


Now it’s time for Snyder to readjust his gameplan to counter those teams ahead of the postseason and that could include a few variations to his roster.




Nuggets are the only team they play again


It’s important to note the Jazz have gotten by swimmingly without using the two-big roster very often, so I doubt we’ll see it as a mainstay, but Derrick Favors has proven to be a trustworthy postseason performer so maybe it comes back in time for the playoffs.




and there goes the spacing


Additionally, Snyder could adjust how he closes games, including using Ingles at times in place of Bojan Bogdanovic who is starting to get targetted by opposing offenses late in games.




We saw in the playoffs last year that he doesn't change. He could have played any of his rookies that played some D and they would have won instead he had Clarkson on Murray

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/5/22307147/quin-snyder-utah-jazz-all-star-moment-duke-blue-devils-mike-krzyzewski-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert


“When the players were really excited for me to have that opportunity, it sunk in, in a lot of ways,” he said. “What they have done, what we’ve been able to do together, over time. You reflect a little bit on the year before I got here when we won 25 games. And we lost some in a row in December and I was trying to figure out a lot of stuff, maybe when we were going to get another win. So you do have a chance to reflect on a lot of those things.”




9 in a row before Rudy saved the franchise

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/qa-in-search-of-a-fourteenth-man/


What is the team’s priority? A stretch four or a 3&D? Perhaps both?



should be both but obviously a starting 4 is their biggest need


Given everything we’ve heard about the club’s perception of Oni, and most of what we’ve seen on the floor, it seems strange to me that Quin Snyder hasn’t given him that 10 minutes more regularly, but he hasn’t.




it's strange that he hasn't played young guys the past two years after having no problem doing it before. Oni is a good end of the bench energy guy. Need to loo for a couple vets ideally


Robinson was signed by Sacramento on December 22, literally the day before the Kings’ season started, then released last week. Again, he wasn’t high on teams’ lists prior to the season, and hasn’t been picked up yet. In his case, while he’s a decent three point shooter, I question the 3&D label because I don’t think he’s much of a defender.




Jazz like him so he seems like one of the most likely guys to eventually end up with them


Do we know anything about next year’s jerseys since the gold are due to go?
@iamzusuf
I expected the current Statement Edition uniforms to disappear before the 2020-21 season, given the fact that the team seemed to bury them down the stretch last year. Four times the Jazz were scheduled to wear the yellow jerseys and switched to something else, then they didn’t even bother to take them to the bubble.


ugly! The green might be even worse

[Xiao Yao You]

Unless something drastically changes over the next three weeks or Cleveland gets completely blown away by an offer it can’t refuse, don’t expect any of those five to go anywhere — even though calls keep coming and strong offers have been made for Nance, including one package with multiple late first-round picks, (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/03/cleveland-cavaliers-to-be-active-ahead-of-nba-trade-deadline-will-it-lead-to-another-deal.html) sources tell cleveland.com.
– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/03/cleveland-cavaliers-to-be-active-ahead-of-nba-trade-deadline-will-it-lead-to-another-deal.html)



Nance would help a lot of teams and he’s on a multi-year bargain deal that makes it easy to come up with matching salaries. He’s the kind of versatile piece that contenders covet because of his defense, playmaking, shooting and impact on winning. According to sources, Nance is the player the Cavs have received the most calls about. Sources say the Minnesota Timberwolves have been aggressively pursuing him since the offseason. Nance’s old teammate and buddy D’Angelo Russell is a strong Nance advocate. (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/03/cleveland-cavaliers-to-be-active-ahead-of-nba-trade-deadline-will-it-lead-to-another-deal.html) Boston, Philadelphia, New Orleans, Miami and Dallas have also shown interest.
– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/03/cleveland-cavaliers-to-be-active-ahead-of-nba-trade-deadline-will-it-lead-to-another-deal.html)





sad not to see Utah on there but expected

[Xiao Yao You]

Cleveland has also been open to discussing forwards Cedi Osman and Taurean Prince and center JaVale McGee (https://theathletic.com/2425373/) in the right deal, sources said. Several teams have called on the Cavaliers’ wing players, those sources said. For the Cavaliers, Collin Sexton, Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen and Isaac Okoro have established themselves as centerpieces of the long-term core.
– via Shams Charania @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425373/)





Prince works but Nance is the guy

[Xiao Yao You]

The Spurs are receiving calls on their veteran players who are pending free agents — LaMarcus Aldridge, DeMar DeRozan, Rudy Gay, Trey Lyles and Patty Mills — and are listening to inquiries, (https://theathletic.com/2425373/) sources said. San Antonio is the sixth seed in the Western Conference at 18-13, blending its veterans and talented young core of Keldon Johnson, Dejounte Murray, Derrick White and Lonnie Walker IV.
– via Shams Charania @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2425373/)





Lamarcus or Gay

[Xiao Yao You]

Law Murray: Silver says that 25 percent of NBA players come from out of United States, promotes G-League/G-League Ignite as a paid option for some talents (https://*********.com/social/) while league continues to discuss one-and-done rule
– via Twitter LawMurrayTheNU
(https://twitter.com/LawMurrayTheNU)




Joe Vardon: The NCAA won’t love this one. Asked about a new basketball league for high-school-aged players who are paid, Adam Silver said: ‘Generally it’s good to have optionality.’ (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter joevardon (https://twitter.com/joevardon)





as we've seen since one and done it doesn't really affect college as far as people watching it. The product is way watered down now but people still tune in for their team regardless. College should be for student athletes. Stupid to have kids going to college that just want to play basketball

[Xiao Yao You]

How good was Andrei Kirilenko? Deron Williams: Very good. Very good and it could have been so much better if he could just shoot the basketball just a little bit better, just to where people had to be up on him. And he had games where he would hit three threes, four threes, but it wasn’t you weren’t worried about it. Like ‘oh, we’ll live with that.’ (https://open.spotify.com/episode/0vtWTq50DCdhkMtN1BTfvs?go=1&utm_source=embed_v3&t=0&nd=1) But I’ve never been around a player that could do everything he could do at his height. And defensively he was special. He was special.
– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/0vtWTq50DCdhkMtN1BTfvs?go=1&utm_source=embed_v3&t=0&nd=1)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454732/anti-lebron-referee-billboards-go-up-in-utah-after-jazz-all-star-slander/

get over it! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/03/06/greatest-utah-jazz-star-showing-time/

when it was in Utah and the statues shared MVP. Duh :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert, on Jordan Clarkson’s 6MOY chances: “I think it should be unanimous. If the voting was today, I don’t see how you couldn’t vote for Jordan Clarkson. (https://*********.com/social/) … It’s no debate. You look at the scoring, the impact, I don’t see no one else that has that impact for their team.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Sarah Todd: Donovan Mitchell on LeBron James’ Utah comments during All-Star draft – “I don’t want to be rude but I really don’t care….people have been talking s*** about me for a while…we’re not doing this to seek the approval of him.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

[Xiao Yao You]

14. “I haven’t come to a decision yet,” Donovan Mitchell said. “I’m just trying to learn as much as I can about this vaccine first before I go ahead and make this decision.” (https://theathletic.com/2433906/2021/03/07/was-the-nba-all-star-game-a-mistake-why-joel-embiid-ben-simmons-absence-spoke-volumes/?source=rss)
– via Joe Vardon @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2433906/2021/03/07/was-the-nba-all-star-game-a-mistake-why-joel-embiid-ben-simmons-absence-spoke-volumes/?source=rss)





figured you were smarter than that

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert, on trash-talking with Donovan Mitchell: “I kinda let him get the first layup, and after that I told him I wasn’t gonna let him do that anymore. (https://*********.com/social/) He got scared in the second half. He didn’t try it any more — that was a good decision. But he did hit a 3 in my face.”
– via Twitter tribjazz
(https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




“You might want to call back, the league’s trying to reach you,” Conley said was the text message he received. “So I hop up real quick and say I’ll be right back, and go back in the bathroom and call the number back. (https://theathletic.com/2433906/2021/03/07/was-the-nba-all-star-game-a-mistake-why-joel-embiid-ben-simmons-absence-spoke-volumes/?source=rss) He’s like ‘Hey, Mike, I’ve got some good news, there’s a spot available in the 3-point contest and the All-Star Game. … If you’re available?’ I’m like shit, I am doing nothing, sitting here with my family.”
– via Joe Vardon @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2433906/2021/03/07/was-the-nba-all-star-game-a-mistake-why-joel-embiid-ben-simmons-absence-spoke-volumes/?source=rss)





don't remember the layup. Mitchell definitely avoided him a couple times smartly

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/staff-post-first-half-recap-all-star/


Trevor Gustaveson (https://twitter.com/drawing_defense): I’m not shocked, but man, the Jazz must have been among the luckiest teams in terms of health and safety protocols as well as health. I’m going to attribute this burst of success mostly to Mike Conley Jr. getting more comfortable and Derrick Favors vastly improving the bench minutes. I’m most surprised at the amount of margin for error the Jazz have, as I expected them to be a contender this season. I did not expect them to be dominating like this. But I’ll take it!




Favors has arguably been worse than Bradley but we love him anyway!


Zarin Ficklin (https://twitter.com/zarinf): Is Mitchell a top-5 MVP candidate? Honestly, I thought Utah’s ceiling was directly tied to Donovan’s growth into superstardom — and there still may be truth to that — but the Jazz have found success this season from collective contribution. Last year I often wondered what the Jazz would look like if Mitchell, Conley, Bojan Bogdanovic and others all clicked in during the same game. This season we’ve seen the whole group take a unified step up and the sum is greater than its parts. I certainly didn’t see this coming.




Bojan, Mitchell, Favors and Snyder usually being the weak links


Trevor: This is a tough call between the improved play of Royce O’Neale and the absolute explosion of a year Jordan Clarkson is having. I’m going to give the most pleasant surprise award to O’Neale though. I’ve always been a huge fan of his game, but did not expect him to look so dynamic. He has greatly improved his passing, pass fakes, and he is shooting with confidence. He’s even been running a little bit of pick-and-roll, as well as attempting threes off the dribble and a stepback or two. He hasn’t always been able to shut down elite guards, but he is giving great effort in the post against bigger players that he’s matched up against.




what O'Neal us doing against bigger players is admirable. Need a starting 4 though


Riley: Ingles might be playing the best basketball of his career. Some people could have predicted Clarkson’s strong season, Conley’s bounce-back year, or Gobert’s re-emergence at the top of the DPOY race — but if you look through the smoke and see that Ingles is averaging a career best points-per-possession, turnover-rate, and true-shooting percentage, you can quickly see the impact he’s had on turning last year’s bench issues around.




that one would have been hard to predict after seemingly being on the decline the past two seasons. I had hope that staying in Utah and working might pay dividends and seemingly it has


Jake: On the one hand, I’m not surprised Conley has figured it out—it already started to click in the last half of 2019-20. I’m not surprised Gobert and Mitchell have improved. On the other hand, Clarkson has surprised me. He’s just been so solid, averaging 18 ppg. Being the second leading scorer on a team with Conley, Mitchell, and Bogdanovic is already a crazy accomplishment. But more importantly, nearly every time Utah has needed a lift this year, JC has been there. Even after his last stretch of poor shooting, he’s still 37% from three while attempting a whopping NINE threes a game. Oh, and by the way, did you know he’s shooting 96.7% from the FT line? If the season ended today, that’d be good for #2 all time for a single season.




Clarkson was awful last year. He's certainly a lot better though still too much iso. Conley has really stepped up on D


David: The relentless, dominating offense. Coming into the season, we knew Snyder wanted to take even more advantage of the Jazz’s corps of marksmen. But to be this consistently and ridiculously good? Like record-setting good? That was not expected. Utah’s defense has been characteristically stout. But it feels like two or three times each outing, the offense will go bonkers with a barrage of 3-pointers. Those two or three-minute spells are what has propelled them to blowout after blowout. It happened last season a few times with Mitchell and Clarkson. But this season, these explosions are a team effort (though often led by one or both of this duo).




the offense was great last year after they fixed the bench. The defense has been the difference


Riley: Utah’s defense has faltered. Since the first game against Philadelphia, their defensive rating has fallen below league average. That’s not to say that it’s terribly worrisome – they’re still forcing the toughest shots in the league by location over that period (via CTG) – but they’re also fouling more and not rebounding as well defensively. That said, the Jazz still have the second best defense in the league against top 10 offenses, it just feels as though the foot has slipped off of the gas a bit.




Bojan, Mitchell and Snyder


Jake: On offense, I’m concerned about their inability to control a game, especially when opposing defenses show ball pressure. They can often get to their counters, but not always. For the most part, Utah is not a big team, nor an athletic team. Gobert struggles to make plays when there’s a man between him and the hoop. Utah often goes cold and Donovan overcommits to isolation, which stalls Utah’s offensive system–which is the crown jewel here. The Jazz can beat the Lakers. The Jazz can beat the Clippers. But it’s going to have to be a group effort. On defense, I’m very concerned about Bogdanovic. Perhaps this is recency bias, but I can’t get the picture out of my head of Tobias Harris completely dominating him in the post to win that game. Of course, the Jazz really just need another wing defender. O’Neale is really good. But unless Snyder gets more comfortable playing two bigs again, this will continue to be a big hole in the Jazz defense.




need a starting 4 and a coach that will put the right players in the game


Zarin: To me, it was in the pre-season, when we saw the Jazz shoot 41, 39, and then 52 3-point shots — each resulted in a blowout win. There was abundant tempering of expectations (after all, two of those were against Phoenix!), but it turned out to be a good approximation of what this new Utah Jazz team could play like. During the 1st of quarter of the 1st regular season game the Jazz focused on midrange shots and started slow. Then they reverted to the barrage of 3s and beat the Blazers by 20 points. This Jazz team was real.




They were great in Portland and inconsistent for a while after as usual. Wasn't until they played the Bucks and started to roll that we knew they had something

[Xiao Yao You]

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/261767/Otto-Porter-Bulls-Could-Agree-To-Buyout;-Warriors-Would-Have-Interest

I assume the Jazz would too.

[Xiao Yao You]

Case in point: Embiid’s destroying Jazz star Rudy Gobert, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, with a 40-point, 19-rebound performance in a Sixers victory last Wednesday. “I get in trouble when I say stuff like this,” Morey says, “but he’s the most unstoppable thing I’ve ever seen. And I’ve seen a lot. You know who I’ve seen,” he says, alluding to Harden. “But I’ve never seen anything like it. Like last night against Rudy Gobert, he faced him up at eight feet, and I mean it ended in a dunk. And (Gobert) is an amazing defender. And he had no answer.” (https://www.si.com/.amp/nba/2021/03/08/sixers-daryl-morey-title-contenders-daily-cover?__twitter_impression=true)
– via Howard Beck @ Sports Illustrated (https://www.si.com/.amp/nba/2021/03/08/sixers-daryl-morey-title-contenders-daily-cover?__twitter_impression=true)





kept him under 50%

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/sc7-playoff-race-clutch-woes-allstar/


Jazz 123, Sixers 131 (OT): Donovan Mitchell. This is a bit complicated given the closing problems mentioned above, but the reality is that no Jazz player was anywhere near as stellar or impactful as Mitchell was for the game’s first 46 minutes. He had 33-8-6, and until that last 9-shot drought, he was doing it efficiently, too. Ingles’ 16 points on 6-for-7 shooting would probably be my backup pick, and Royce O’Neale had another nice all-around game, including on the defensive end against the likes of Ben Simmons and Tobias Harris.




12-34. The guy can apparently do no wrong :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Some players who have been rumored to be potential buyout candidates are point guard George Hill, wing Tony Snell, sharpshooter Wayne Ellington and wing Otto Porter Jr., who is a player long desired by Olshey. Big man DeMarcus Cousins was waived last month by Houston, but a source said the Blazers will not consider him (https://theathletic.com/2435647/2021/03/09/blazers-and-their-tough-decisions-who-to-pick-up-who-to-play-and-who-to-rest/?source=emp_shared_article).
– via Jason Quick @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2435647/2021/03/09/blazers-and-their-tough-decisions-who-to-pick-up-who-to-play-and-who-to-rest/?source=emp_shared_article)





Sounds like a line is being made for Porter. He's the best guy for the Jazz that's been mentioned so far. Could start and play a huge role but probably wouldn't. But we do know their was mutual interest before he went to Chicago. Start him and bring Bojan off the bench if you can't trade him.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-trade-deadline-team-could-184448502.html


Limited position The Jazz have a healthy lead over for the top seed in the West. It seems inconceivable that they would trade any of their top-8 players.

If they were smart Bojan and maybe Favors would be shopped but I'm sure they aren't


The Jazz could alternatively make a cost-cutting move. They are going to be a taxpaying team over the next five years now that they have Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert locked into maximum contracts during that span. They are currently $1.2 million above the luxury tax. There is a path for them to get below the luxury tax without trading their Top 8 players but it would require trading away some of their young prospects. Getting under the luxury tax this year would delay the repeater tax, giving the Jazz tens of millions in luxury tax savings three years from now.

another good reason to look to move the above

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: Free agent forward Ersan Ilyasova is signing a deal with the Utah Jazz for the rest of the season, sources tell ESPN. He’s currently completing Covid testing protocol before he’s cleared to sign his deal. – via Twitter wojespn




I thought they should have signed him years ago. Hopefully he's got something left. Be interesting to see if he plays. SHould probably start with Bojan off th bench until they trade him. I guess they finally realized they need a PF? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Waived by Charlotte last November, Nicolas Batum wondered what was next. He believed he was closer to the version of himself who had once helped elevate All-Stars, not the 6-foot-8 forward made dispensable after career-low productivity in his 12th NBA season. Batum believed in himself. Waiting by the phone, he just didn’t know who else agreed. “I came from being released and don’t know what to do, to choosing between five or six contenders,” Batum said. “In an hour. After 18 months of not playing.” – via Andrew Greif @ Los Angeles Times


The first call came from Rudy Gobert, his French compatriot and the Utah Jazz center, who implored his friend to “come with me; let’s do it together.” But Gobert had competition. Brooklyn, Milwaukee and Toronto also called, among other suitors. The Clippers wanted Batum badly enough to set up a de facto phone bank: Batum heard from coach Tyronn Lue, team president Lawrence Frank, and stars Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. Their vision for his passing, shooting and defense aligned with his own. It wasn’t the only pull. “We had the common story from last year,” Batum said. “My story is their story. “What happened to them last year is what happened to me last year. I think it’s pretty similar: People are expecting stuff from us and things didn’t work out. So I was like, why not go with that team and make sure we both redeem ourselves?” – via Andrew Greif @ Los Angeles Times


“I knew I could join a team with talent like that and make sure to be the glue guy,” he said. “I’ve been like that since I’ve played my whole career, in different ways, but the base of my game has been doing that. “One of the reasons why I chose the offer from the Clippers to be that for that team because I feel like maybe they missed guys like me or Serge like that last year. I don’t really care about what I’m doing on the court. I don’t come on the court like focused on what I can do numbers-wise. I just want to make sure the team, especially my two best players, but the team in general, are good to win the game.” – via Andrew Greif @ Los Angeles Times

[Xiao Yao You]

Jordan Schultz: Pending final bloodwork, free agent forward Ersan Ilyasova will sign vet min deal w/the #Jazz tomorrow, (https://*********.com/social/) per sources. Ilyasova has already gone through Covid protocol. The 33-year-old played in 63 games last season for the Bucks, averaging 6.6 PPG (36.5 percent 3s) / 4.8 REBS.
– via Twitter Schultz_Report (https://twitter.com/Schultz_Report)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/454977/report-utah-jazz-to-sign-ersan-ilyasova/


“Provides some extra shooting and he’s a decent rebounder. Good depth at PF along with Bojan Bogdanovic and Georges Niang,” said KSL Sports Jazz insider Ben Anderson.




:roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50122324/jazz-to-sign-veteran-forward-ersan-ilyasova


There were a number of other options the Jazz could have used for the 14th spot: 10-day contracts, promoting one of their two-way players, or test out the buy-out market. Utah could have also combined a couple of those choices and used 10-day contracts to buy some time to get a better idea of what the buy-out market would actually look like before making a decision.




seems like they should have kept their options open but the sooner they get someone the sooner they can fit in hopefully. Desperately need a 4. Trade Bojan!


In the Bucks' playoff run in the bubble, Ilyasova played in just three games, averaging 3.0 points in 7.8 minutes. He didn't appear in any of the contests during Milwaukee's second-round series where it fell to the Miami Heat. In the end, it was a very-limited role or a did not play.




Bucks were deep and actually had other 4's

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/9/22321786/reports-utah-jazz-to-sign-veteran-shooter-ersan-ilyasova


It is not entirely clear how Ilyasova might fit into the Jazz’s plans, as they’ve got a number of perimeter-oriented forwards.




Other than Morgan and O'Neales's best impression of one he's the only 4. Him and Morgan should get the minutes unless going small with Royce is called on. That won't happen of course! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/threading-the-needle-february-uniform-review/


Last month we highlighted the Statement Gold uniforms quite a bit, so I’ll refrain from re-hashing the same material again (though it does garner lots of clicks). I will mention that as it shows in the Uniform Recap above, the Jazz are a perfect 6-0 while wearing gold. That puts their record a solid 5 games over .500 at 28-23. Either there was no curse, or the curse has been broken by the best team in the league.




who cares. Ugly!


Green with Envy?



awfu too

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent


Length, shooting, and veteran experience added to Utah’s roster for the second half of the season




is he long?


David J. Smith
@davidjsmith1232
Ersan Ilyasova is an interesting pickup for the Jazz. Another big who can shoot.


Career: 10.3 PPG, 37% 3s, 5.7 RPG, 1.1 APG. 51 career Playoff games (ECF w/ MIL in 2019)


6-9, 235 lb who will turn 34 in May.


another? Him and Morgan :facepalm


This might signal a Bogey trade, which makes me all kinds of nervous (but which could also pay off depending on who we get back)

Posted by Korumbian (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Korumbian) on Mar 9, 2021 | 2:55 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537354408)


I'd be shocked. They don't necessarily need anyone back. Addition by subtraction. Get under tax. Flexibility this year and going going forward.


I can see him being insurance at Center too if Favors can’t go. A bigger, better option than Morgan.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 9, 2021 | 1:50 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537351512)


:facepalm Not convinced Favors is better than Morgan


Team seems pretty committed to 4 3-point shooters at all times
Think played the Rudy-Favors combo less than 15 minutes in 36 games

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 9, 2021 | 2:07 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537352255)


only took 6 years


I just think the team is committed to playing the one style very well and making teams adjust to us than adjusting to them. Time will prove if a mistake I guess.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 9, 2021 | 2:35 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537353593)


definitely a mistake. Many ways you can make teams adjust. Go big on someone instead just not Favors!


Answered my own question....His defense could be useful.

Info from the same thread…
7’1" wingspan.
In 2019-20…
Roll Gravity: A+
Interior Defense: B-
Offensive Rebounding: B+
Defensive Rebounding: A-



Longer than Royce and about the same as Morgan I think


why Milwaukee didn’t play him in the playoffs last year against the Heat. But hope that was more due to injuries and the bubble.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 9, 2021 | 2:30 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537353359)


They were loaded. Jazz have no one but Morgan and COTM won't lay him


I always thought he was 6'10". Wanted him 5 years ago
As a stretch 4 when we were searching.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 9, 2021 | 2:40 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537353776)



they were searching? Definitely been on my radar for a while


Wishful thinking for a dude that has averaged 29% from three in the playoffs for his career.

Posted by uncle-ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/users/uncle-ingles) on Mar 10, 2021 | 2:08 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537370124)


what was he on wide open 3's? That's what he'd get


Favs defense has been disappointing & he's definitely lost some bounce...
But, he’s still a super efficient offensive player & excellent rebounder.
I don’t see Ersan being anything other than insurance, to be honest.

Posted by uncle-ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/users/uncle-ingles) on Mar 10, 2021 | 2:19 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537370173)


could have had that with Bradley and saved million and got the PF they obviously finally realize they need


That’s what’s missing from his game this year. His superior athleticism for a big man. It’s why he doesn’t challenge every shot or is late challenging some shots. Its why we dont see him dunk over multiple defenders once a game like we used too. Hes still pretty young right? I wonder if it’s his back that’s bothering him. That would explain alot. Either that or he has looked heavy this season.
As far as ersan goes I dont know how much this helps. Hes been sitting all year with no team signing him. Maybe that’s for a reason like he was rehabbing something or sitting out for personal reasons. But if not for said reasons than I wonder how much value if any he can bring. I wonder if he can even crack the rotation. He could end up being another shaq.
I dont see him taking niangs minutes. He cant shoot like niang can. I dont see him taking favs minutes either. He cant defend rebound or pnr like favs can. Its good insurance though. Hopefully I’m wrong and he makes a big difference.

Posted by JazzHands2017 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/JazzHands2017) on Mar 9, 2021 | 5:00 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/3/9/22321919/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova-bucks-free-agent#537358848)


Favors doesn't look heavy. I'd guess part of why he was willing to come to be a backup was because he knew he wasn't up for big minutes. Ersan is one of two modern 4's on the roster. Makes all the sense in the world. Why it didn't happen instead of Shaq or Favors to begin with even is the question?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/9/22321356/nba-free-agent-buyout-market-utah-jazz


Otto Porter Jr.


he's the guy. The only reason I'd say I might have waited on Ersan


We still need to find a 3rd string center.
Most of those guys are more into shooting 3s than protecting the rim. Baynes could be a pretty good fit though.

Wasn’t there a rumor about Javale McGee? He’d be good too, but probably wants to play more than 3rd string. He’d allow us to rest Favs and Rudy more though.
Either guy would give us some insurance in case Favs or Rudy has to sit for a few games. Also, we will probably want the option of playing Favs at the 4 against the Lakers, Bucks and anyone else who is posting up on Bogey.

Posted by Big_B (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Big_B) on Mar 9, 2021 | 10:04 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/9/22321356/nba-free-agent-buyout-market-utah-jazz#537342408)


Morgan. They are fine there


Even though Porter would fit in beautifully on the Jazz no one is picking them over a LA team that’s contending. It sucks but we are probably looking at second and third tier options who wouldn’t make an impact for us anyways. Maybe George hill. He played really well for us and would be great off the bench to be another ball handler and 3pt shooter. Especially if someone went down (knock on wood, literally knocked on wood)
Its always nice considering the possibilities but as always Jazz fans have to face reality that these top buyout market players just arent ending up in Utah. Hopefully some of this changes with our new owner but probably not.

Posted by JazzHands2017 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/JazzHands2017) on Mar 9, 2021 | 10:20 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/9/22321356/nba-free-agent-buyout-market-utah-jazz#537342969)


Those teams can't get everyone and don't necessarily need Porter. GS and someone else I've seen mentioned for Porter. Why go to GS over Utah? He liked the Jazz before so they would be in the mix if they wanted to be I'm sure


The Jazz need a third Center, they need a 3/4 who is capable of defending, and a backup PG wouldn’t hurt either.
With zero cap-space, and almost no desirable trade pieces, the buyout market will be key to adding reinforcements. .

Posted by Bobby Hill#1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Bobby%20Hill%231) on Mar 9, 2021 | 10:42 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/9/22321356/nba-free-agent-buyout-market-utah-jazz#537343770)


starting 4


Not sure a few inches from Ersan Ilysova
Is gonna make much difference in the situations you’re talking about.
But like I said, I’m not mad about it.
Depth never hurts.

Posted by uncle-ingles (https://www.sbnation.com/users/uncle-ingles) on Mar 9, 2021 | 12:24 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/9/22321356/nba-free-agent-buyout-market-utah-jazz#537347722)



letting Royce play his natural position and keeping Favors and Bojan off the floor adds plenty

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/03/09/utah-jazz-4-stats-explain-greatness/


Stats that sum up Utah Jazz eminence: Rebounding



it's been a problem against teams that have beat them. Enter Ersan

[Xiao Yao You]

Basketball-Reference: Toughest remaining schedule: 1. Rockets, 2. Magic, 3. Blazers, 4. Knicks, 5. Spurs. Easiest: 1. Jazz, 2. Celtics, 3. Pistons, 4. Mavs, 5. Heat (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter bball_ref (https://twitter.com/bball_ref)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/plenty-have-tried-to-create-a-new-silicon-valley-but-this-new-nba-owner-and-tech-founder-may-be-succeeding-11615396810?siteid=yhoof2

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz announced today that the team has signed forward Ersan Ilyasova (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova).
– via NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-sign-ersan-ilyasova)

[Xiao Yao You]

Mike Finger: Gregg Popovich says Spurs have “mutually agreed” to work with LaMarcus Aldridge on opportunities to play elsewhere. (https://*********.com/social/) Not with the team, apparently won’t be again.
– via Twitter mikefinger
(https://twitter.com/mikefinger)




Adrian Wojnarowski: Spurs are working on trade scenarios with LaMarcus Aldridge and have been engaged on several fronts, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.espn.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=yd22nvfu

Might need another team or two. Doubt they want Bojan

[Xiao Yao You]

Adam Wexler: Christian Wood says he wants to be out there, it’s very hard to be patient, but hopes to be back after the back-to-back. (https://*********.com/social/) #Rockets at Sac (Thu) & at Utah (Fri). Then host Celtics on Sun. Silas said Wood went thru entire practice & he could be back in a week, maybe less.
– via Twitter AdamJWexler (https://twitter.com/AdamJWexler)

[Xiao Yao You]

It was the sort of unforgettably seismic event that forced Gobert, during a virtual interview session just hours before he played in Sunday’s 70th N.B.A. All-Star Game, to field multiple questions asking him to look back. “Those few weeks, those few months, were really tough,” Gobert said softly. “I’m just blessed to be able to be here today to enjoy this All-Star Game — and to be healthy.” (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)




“It was definitely a tough year, not just for me, but for everyone,” Gobert said. (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html) “A lot of things happened. A lot of unexpected things happened. But I believe that every tough moment is a learning experience. I think the most important thing is to try to make positive out of the negative, and hopefully that’s what I’ve been able to do.”
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)




“Signing the contract doesn’t put more pressure on me,” Gobert said in a telephone interview on a recent drive home from practice. “In people’s minds, maybe it changed their perception about me, but no amount of money is going to add pressure to what I put on myself. “I’ve had a target on my back for many, many years now — for multiple reasons. When you win multiple defensive player of the years, people just try to come at you. So I’ve had that mind-set already.” (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)




“You watch those two guys play now and that’s a long time ago, literally and figuratively,” Utah Coach Quin Snyder said of past tensions (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html).
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)



Gobert, who stands 7 feet 1 inch and has a 7-foot-9 wingspan, also has a kindred spirit nearby when he needs counsel. Mark Eaton, the 7-4 center who played for the Jazz for his entire 11-season career, remains a fixture in the community and has become a sounding board for Utah’s modern-day defensive anchor (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html).
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)



When given the chance, he also refused to fire back at the Hall of Fame center Shaquille O’Neal, who has been repeatedly dismissive of Mitchell and Gobert on TNT — especially regarding Gobert’s contract. “I have a lot of respect for his career,” Gobert said of O’Neal. “He’s one of the guys that, growing up watching basketball, we all looked up to. But now he’s an entertainer in a way, so he’s doing things, saying things. (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html) If I start taking personal everything that’s been said about me, it’s going to be a long year.”
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455066/what-ersan-ilyasova-offers-jazz/


The forward was a mainstay through the first half of the 2019-20 season with Milwaukee but saw his role reduced dramatically after the Bucks signed veteran forward Marvin Williams midway through the year.




best team in the league so that says something


Ilyasova’s 21.2 defensive rebounding rate would currently rank third on the Jazz behind only Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors, and far surpassing Royce O’Neale’s 15.5 percentage rate.




an actual PF getting more than a 6'4 version. Who would have thunk?


The forward had the second-worst defensive rating for the Bucks last season and has never been particularly agile laterally defending other big men.




can't be any worse than Bojan and Mitchell


Furthermore, Ilyasova is a bit of a ball-stopper whose 6.5 percent assist percentage would rank second-worst (https://www.nba.com/stats/players/advanced/?sort=AST_PCT&dir=-1&Season=2020-21&SeasonType=Regular%20Season&TeamID=1610612762) on the Jazz ahead of only Gobert at 6.2 percent. Though he trails Georges Niang by just three-tenths of a percent in assist rate, Ilyasova’s lower three-point shooting percentage will make it difficult for him to overtake the fifth-year veteran in the Jazz rotation.




again the fact that he's actually PF should have him and Morgan taking the minutes at least until they get Porter. Won't happen of course


However, at this point in his career, and as a result of his mostly redundant skillset, it’s unlikely that he’ll overtake anyone in the Jazz rotation unless there is an injury, or further roster moves are made.



trade Bojan!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/9/22321786/reports-utah-jazz-to-sign-veteran-shooter-ersan-ilyasova


It is not entirely clear how Ilyasova might fit into the Jazz’s plans, as they’ve got a number of perimeter-oriented forwards.




and Morgan is the only 4 :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/10/22323548/utah-jazz-unveil-new-green-earned-edition-jerseys

Godawful

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/falling-stars-checking-in-with-the-g-league/


The 2019-20 Stars were a joy to watch and one of the best teams in the G League. They won the G League Showcase and had the second best record in the league when everything shut down. Head coach Martin Schiller won Coach of the Year honors and was able to get a job in the EuroLeague as a result. Jarrell Brantley received MVP votes and was first-team All-G League. Players like Trevon Bluiett and Mike Scott were complementary to the Utah Jazz’s two-way players Brantley and Wright-Foreman as well as the regular players who were frequently on assignment from the Jazz like Juwan Morgan, Nigel Williams-Goss, Miye Oni and Rayjon Tucker. Not only were the Stars good and fun but watching the team provided a lot of insight into the 2019-20 Jazz rookie class.




Tucker should have been frequent but wasn't. Only the last couple games unfortunately but why would you know that! :facepalm


The Stars began their season with a blowout loss to the Erie Bayhawks. The only players on assignment from the NBA were Jazz rookie Udoka Azubuike and Bucks rookie Jordan Nwora. Azubuike looked like a rookie with solid potential, especially on defense. It seemed clear that this year’s Stars team was designed to echo the Jazz with a strong rim-protecting/rim-running center surrounded by capable shooters and the team played best when Azubuike was on the floor. Azubuike was a -1 in a 19-point loss, best on the team. Regrettably, that would be the only game we got to see Azubuike as he suffered a severe ankle sprain late in the 4th quarter and remains out indefinitely. Watching the injury, it is fortunate that it was only a sprain. Former BYU standout Jake Toolson was also with the Stars in the season debut, but also suffered a season-ending injury and was later waived.




Nwora also sprained his ankle


Without Azubuike, the Stars were forced to adapt. Romaro Gill was the only other rim-protecting big on the team, so the Stars played more small-ball than originally intended, and it didn’t work out well. Gill just doesn’t have the same upside as Azubuike and when the team attempted to play with him in the rim-protecting and rim-running role it didn’t work out great.




Actually they didn't until the other guy got hurt. Again why would you know that! :lol


With Azubuike out and Nwora recalled to the Bucks, the Stars were fortunate to have Dallas Mavericks rookie Tyler Bey assigned to the team for the remainder of the season. Bey was a standout performer for the Stars through the season and the 2019-20 MWC Defensive Player of the Year showed a lot of offensive promise in his role with the Stars. In my opinion, he and Ferrell were the two best players for the team this season. Although his 3-point shot still needs work (.325 3P%) I think the Mavericks got a keeper. He played lockdown defense and was aggressive driving to the basket. Bey averaged 15.1 points, 9.2 rebounds and 0.2 assists in 27 minutes per game.




as your 2nd rounders and former NBA rotation players should be. Hughes...


The Stars lost 7 of their first 8, often in blowouts, with the lone win coming against the lowly Iowa Wolves, the only team to finish with a worse record. Finally in game 9, Jazz rookie Elijah Hughes and Mavericks rookie Josh Green were assigned to the team and the Stars were able to defeat the Austin Spurs. Hughes, coming off a lengthy injury absence, looked rusty but solid. Watching him shoot in college and in his NBA minutes, I don’t think there is reason to be concerned but he shot an abysmal 20.5% from outside in his five games played with the Stars this season. The biggest question mark for Hughes coming out of college was how his defense would translate after playing in Jim Boeheim’s zone defense for four years. I’m happy to say that his defensive instincts looked solid and I’m optimistic that he’ll be a plus defender in the NBA. Hughes averaged 14.2 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 26 minutes per game.




He wasn't a good long range shooter in college so it is a concern. Pretty optimistic to think someone without great length or athleticism will be a plus defender. I'm just wondering if he'll even be as good as Wright Forman who could shoot and was athletic and almost as long



The Stars would go on to win only two more games and were mostly unremarkable. Bluiett, a 6’5″ guard out of Xavier, had been key to the Stars success in 2018-19 and 2019-20 as an outside shooter. After shooting 37.5% from deep in 2018-19 and 42.5% in 2019-20, Bluiett’s shot seemed to have abandoned him this season as he shot 28.9% on six attempts per game. It’s probably no coincidence that Bluiett’s best game of the season came in their biggest win of the season when they blew out the G League Ignite team1 (https://saltcityhoops.com/falling-stars-checking-in-with-the-g-league/#note-1) by 20 points. Bluiett hit 4 of 6 from 3 and scored 16 points in that outing.




He's a role player on a team without out good players ahead of him this year


Ultimately, I was disappointed in this year’s Stars season and not because of the win-loss record. The reason to watch the G League is to see prospects develop and to get a longer look at young players getting minutes they just can’t get in the NBA right now. Azubuike’s injury and Hughes’ late assignment to the team meant that there was very little opportunity to see that this year. More importantly, the Stars were designed to run like the Jazz, with the goal of giving guys a relevant development atmosphere in the same offensive and defensive systems as the parent club uses. Azubuike’s injury meant that the Stars were suddenly missing the essential piece for doing that.




and Forrest. They might end up with some guys for summer league and next year out of it. The Scott's and Graves especially who you didn't mention


When the 2021-2022 G League season begins, take the time to catch a game or two.



especially if you're going to write articles about them

[Xiao Yao You]

Georges Niang: A year ago today crazy to think it’s been a year! March 11th! Stuck in the locker room, the beginning of wearing masks, and covid testing! What a year!! (https://*********.com/social/tweets/)
– via Twitter GeorgesNiang20 (https://twitter.com/GeorgesNiang20)

[Xiao Yao You]

Where Nemanja Bjelica could land by thetrade deadline Scotto: My sense would be if they can get some type of draft compensation like a second-round pick and no long-term salary past this year, that would be ideal (https://*********.com/2021/03/11/potential-sacramento-kings-trades/).
– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/2021/03/11/potential-sacramento-kings-trades/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Multiple teammates of Mitchell tell The Athletic he and Rudy Gobert are more than co-workers. They are friends and have forged a close relationship with each other off the floor (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss).
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss)

When many media outlets, The Athletic included, wrote on the state of their union, Mitchell and Gobert read those stories. They noticed when this outlet reported that a source with knowledge of the situation said that their relationship appeared to be unsalvageable. Then, they pushed back on the idea that they could no longer play together or no longer desired to. “In a strange way, I think that article helped,” Mitchell said. “It brought out a level of determination in both of us that we never had. I never had a controversy like that. (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss) Here we were, the two pillars of the team, and we had to go to the playoffs in two months. It brought out a different level of tenacity in both of us.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss)



“I think the conversation we had before camp was very important,” Gobert told The Athletic. (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss) “We decided that we were going to grow up and do what’s best for the team. At the end of the day, we all wanted to win. That’s all we wanted, was to win. It was a test for us.”
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss)



“It didn’t really bother me,” Mitchell said. “I thought it was blown out of proportion, but that’s just the media in general. When I said ‘Aight,’ for me it meant that’s cool, and that’s your opinion and it’s OK to have an opinion. I play to make sure that I’m the best player I can be for myself and my teammates. “Shaq isn’t my coach. If he doesn’t agree that I’m a superstar, that’s cool. I just have to go out and make sure that I play for my teammates.” (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss)
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=rss)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz center’s positive test for the coronavirus began a cascading shutdown of American sports. But with a huge new contract and a dominant team, he has moved on. It was not a time in his life, understandably, that Rudy Gobert is eager to revisit. (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur) No one wants to be connected so closely to the day that the N.B.A., suddenly infiltrated by the coronavirus, suspended its season.
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur)




Gobert, though, is realistic. He constantly sizes up situations in his rim-protecting role for the Utah Jazz. He understands better than most that there are some things even a supreme shot-blocker can’t swat away (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur). So he has known for some time what was coming this month. Copious coverage of the unhappy anniversary was inevitable, ready or not, one year removed from Gobert’s positive test for the coronavirus on March 11, 2020. It was the thunderbolt that led to the postponement of Utah’s game in Oklahoma City that night and, some 90 minutes later, an abrupt announcement that the 2019-20 season was being placed on hiatus “until further notice.” The novel coronavirus had been thrust to the forefront of major team sports in North America.
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur)



“Those few weeks, those few months, were really tough,” Gobert said softly. “I’m just blessed to be able to be here today to enjoy this All-Star Game — and to be healthy.” (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur) The focus should be back on basketball soon enough and Gobert, this March, is clearly in a good place. Despite his modest 14.2 points per game, and winding up as the last of 24 players selected when LeBron James and Kevin Durant chose the All-Star squads, Gobert can stride into Utah’s one-year-later practice session on Thursday knowing he has never been a more effective two-way player.
– via Marc Stein @ New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/10/sports/basketball/rudy-gobert-anniversary.html?smid=tw-nytsports&smtyp=cur)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: From the @Utah Jazz. “With no change in health and safety protocols, Vivint Arena will start the second half of the season with a socially distanced seating capacity of 5,600 fans throughout the lower bowl, upper bowl and suite level for Jazz games.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

The doctors called and told Donovan Mitchell Sr. to unlock his hotel room door, slide the bolt so it stayed open and then stay back in the room. That was unnerving. But then the doctors walked in wearing full hazmat suits and what started going through Mitchell’s mind that day — March 12, 2020 — was how sick might he be. And if he was indeed sick with COVID-19, had he gotten the entire Mets team ill as well? (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM)
– via Joel Sherman @ New York Post (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM)



“They were in there for two minutes to test me, then they left,” Mitchell said, remembering the unsettling times from a year ago. (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM) “I was left there for the next few days wondering if I had it or not and who else I might have given it to.”
– via Joel Sherman @ New York Post (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM)



This was part of a “scary, scary time” in the words of Mitchell, who was then the Mets’ longtime director of public relations and community engagement. (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM) On March 4, he had gone to see his son, the Utah Jazz star, Donovan Mitchell Jr., play the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
– via Joel Sherman @ New York Post (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM)



Now, after learning his son’s diagnosis, Mitchell mentally ran through pretty much every player on the Mets roster and, yep, he had contact with all of them. “We had done an autograph signing, productions, appearances, I was hands-on with every player in that locker room,” Mitchell said. “If I had it, pretty much it was a done deal that I would pass it on to somebody. … Now, I am starting to panic. If I have it, I don’t want to be the reason why they can’t practice or they can’t play or I infected someone on the team.” (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM)
– via Joel Sherman @ New York Post (https://nypost.com/2021/03/11/hazmat-suit-hell-had-donovan-mitchell-sr-worried-he-infected-entire-mets-roster/?fbclid=IwAR0iVbNmxNvf1vxJ-a2gIi-PYgLDkHT3zWRdQbaQHgw_fYenP6PQ0_JG0KM)

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: NBA Board of Governors approved changes to two-way contracts that will allow, among other modifications, for those players to be added onto postseason rosters, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)



Shams Charania: Two-way players who exceed 50 games active will now have their compensation increased to their league minimum salary based on years of service, (https://*********.com/social/) sources said.
– via Twitter ShamsCharania (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Ersan Ilyasova said that in watching the Jazz this season, what’s stood out to him is the ball movement: “This is the way to win a championship.” (https://*********.com/social/) Said the team concept is simple: “Move the ball, and if you’re open, shoot it.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



Ben Anderson: Justin Zanik used to be Ersan Ilyasova’s agent before Zanik left that lifestyle to join the @UtahJazz front office (https://*********.com/social/). Ilyasova said he knows the rest of the players on the team through years of competing.
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)





so what took so long. Been obvious since you signed Ed Davis instead of a 4 that you were in desperate need of one :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Quin Snyder on finding a player in Ersan Ilyasova who brings similar traits to Bogdanovic and Niang: “Dennis and Justin and our group wouldn’t have looked at someone you couldn’t plug and play. (https://*********.com/social/) I think the one thing we’ve been really conscious of is the chemistry of the team.”
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)



Eric Walden: Quin Snyder, on adding Ersan Ilyasova: “He’s got to assimilate and learn a little bit, but being a smart, intelligent player, he’ll fit in (https://*********.com/social/) well.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



Eric Walden: Quin Snyder opens his post-practice remarks with a tribute to late Jazz employee Doug Birrell, a part of the health/performance staff, who died on Sunday: (https://*********.com/social/) “He’s one of the best people I’ve ever known.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

To be sure, he was and is proud of his race, his heritage, who he is as a person. But, his younger years were difficult at times. Kids can say and do cruel things to other children. And that was the case for Mitchell at times in his childhood, as he grew up in New York and Connecticut. Those words, those instances, they never left him. They resonate with him to this day. “We would be in class and read books about slavery, and everyone wants to say the N-word,” Mitchell said. “It became uncomfortable and that should have never been the case. I’ve been exposed to both sides. (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=user-shared-article) I played in New York City every weekend in high school and I saw what my teammates had to do and where they lived. That had an impact for me. I knew when I made it to the league that I wanted to speak for the people who didn’t have a voice to be heard.”
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2423303/2021/03/11/one-on-one-with-donovan-mitchell-on-saving-the-unsalvageable-shrugging-off-shaq-and-the-fight-for-social-justice/?source=user-shared-article)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455138/jazz-introduce-ilyasova-enjoy-needed-all-star-break/


Ilyasova was signed for the remainder of the season on Wednesday and is expected to add extra depth to the frontcourt behind starter Bojan Bogdanovic and backup forward Georges Niang.




Who watches the Jazz and thinks Bojan is the pF and not Royce?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455121/jazz-increasing-capacity-of-fans-at-vivint-arena-to-5600/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455102/mitchell-conley-named-finalist-for-usa-olympic-team/


Former Weber State guard Damian Lillard is a finalist for the 12-man roster, as is former University of Utah forward Kyle Kuzma.




as is almost everyone that wants to be


Bojan Bogdanovic’s Croatian team can still qualify for the Olympics during a tournament being held in his home country beginning June 29. The forward could still be playing with the Jazz if the team makes a deep run into the NBA playoffs.




Turkey?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/11/22326100/utah-jazz-ersan-ilyasova-newest-player-nba-team-chemistry-quin-snyder


With the Jazz needing to fill the empty roster spot by March 10 to have the league minimum 14-players, Ilyasova was a no-brainer. He has plenty of playoff experience, he’s a versatile defender who can switch and shoot the ball and the fact that Zanik was once Ilyasova’s agent didn’t hurt.




and most obvious is he's an actual PF! Again the question is why it's taken almost two years to get to this point? And actually 6 to build around your best player


Snyder knows that Ilyasova will be kind of chomping at the bit to make a place for himself in the rotation and there’s certainly going to be an opportunity for that down the line, but there won’t be any rush.




certainly? Shaq didn't. Maybe if he went to Duke it would be a certainty


There’s certainly some competition at his position with Georges Niang already having worked for a long time to earn his minutes, but there will be times when situationally it might make more sense to have someone more experienced on the floor. And, with the tightened schedule through the second half of the season, depth is not something to be disregarded.





Might be times when they need to play bigger and keep Bojan from getting attacked or killing the spacing with Favors. We know Morgan is a last resort.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/11/22323179/nba-midseason-awards-how-many-do-the-utah-jazz-deserve-rudy-gobert-jordan-clarkson-quin-snyder


The Athletic also voted on Executive of the Year, and Utah’s Dennis Lindsey (https://www.deseret.com/2019/4/26/20671915/dennis-lindsey-indicates-changes-to-jazz-may-be-coming-ricky-rubio-s-status-appears-up-in-the-air#utah-jazz-general-manager-dennis-lindsey-talks-to-the-media-at-zions-bank-basketball-center-in-salt-lake-city-on-thursday-april-25-2019-utahs-season-ended-with-wednesdays-loss-to-houston-in-the-nba-playoffs) received one vote. The Brooklyn Nets’ Sean Marks was the runaway winner, garnering 15 of 28 votes. The Suns’ James Jones, Lakers’ Rob Pelinka, 76ers’ Daryl Morey, Bucks’ Jon Horst and Oklahoma City Thunder’s Sam Presti all received at least one vote.




why the Wizard and not Zanik? I'd think Zanik has a lot to do with the current team. The Wizard thought Exum and Ricky and Favors starting were good ideas

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/11/22319644/utah-jazz-quarterly-update-quarter-two


The Utah Jazz (https://www.slcdunk.com/) are 9.4 points per 100 possessions better when Rudy Gobert than when he sits. Gobert leads the team in win shares, while only being third on the team in minutes. In short, Gobert remains the most important player on the Jazz.




someone gets it


Clarkson still wins this, but it’s closer than many may realize. On just about any other team, Joe Ingles would be the best bench player by a mile. The Jazz having two elite bench players is a luxury, and has been a huge reason for this team’s improvement from last season.




what about the 30 million dollar man? :lol


Last quarterly update, I decided not to give this award to Mike Conley because his improvement was more of a return to form than a straight upgrade. At this point, however, it would just be silly to not give Conley the award.



Niang? Most of the team is improved


Of course, Quin Snyder (https://www.sbnation.com/nba/players/111859/quin-snyder) wins this by default, but he also wins it by merit. The Utah Jazz roster didn’t change a whole lot from last year to this year, but the team’s performance took a massive leap. Some of that credit belongs to players simply playing better, but I think most of it needs to go to the mastermind behind the on-court performance. Coach Snyder is beloved by his players, and respected throughout the league.



most of it goes to the layers who are mostly better than last year especially defensively


Mitchell has been up and down. He’s always had hot and cold streaks, so this is not surprising, but it would be nice to see him grow into a more consistent player. Mitchell is a star player. He has been very good this year. But he hasn’t been as good as many of us had hoped. Overall, he gets a positive grade, but it would be great to see that rise up to an A.




be great if he played D and showed up in the first 3 quarters


Bogdanovic has had a rough season. The good news is that it has been trending up overall. The bad news is that it has been a slow rise. He is such a great shooter, that even with his struggles, he’s shooting over 40% from three. But everything else on the court has been difficult. We’ve seen multiple teams attack him as the weak point in the defense. Hopefully the All-Star break has been good for his injury recovery and he can continue his upward trend.




again the problem is even at his best he might be a net negative


Derrick Favors is a consistently solid backup center. He’s not going to blow you away with his stats, but he’ll do his job. So far he’s done his job adequately, though I would like to see him get back to the level he’s been at defensively over the last couple of years.




could have had Bradley for adequate at a lot less money


In fact, we could probably say the same for Royce O’Neale. Career highs in almost every statistical category just a few months after fans were calling for his head.
And, while we’re at it, we could say the same for Clarkson and Niang—both are having career years. Perhaps that is a testament to the Jazz’s system and organization. Almost every player on the team is having a career year.
And you know I love Gobert. He is easily the MVP of the team.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Mar 11, 2021 | 9:41 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/11/22319644/utah-jazz-quarterly-update-quarter-two#537417107)


What idiot was calling for O'Neales head?


Probably has as much / more to do with the FO of DL and JZ than Quin (although they all work together). AND 100% agreed: Both Donovan and Rudy have way out-performed their draft stock!

Posted by l3uddyh011y (https://www.sbnation.com/users/l3uddyh011y) on Mar 11, 2021 | 10:44 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/11/22319644/utah-jazz-quarterly-update-quarter-two#537420357)


Too bad about Dante and Ricky and...



Rubio really only had one flaw, but it was a pretty big flaw.
If he could have been just an average 3-point shooter, he would have been amazing for our system.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Mar 11, 2021 | 10:52 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/11/22319644/utah-jazz-quarterly-update-quarter-two#537420836)



He's mostly flawed. He plays with a lot of energy and is unselfish. About the best that can be said of that mess


less focus on a passing PG (which is his main skill), more emphasis on shooting (which is his main weakness). But his TS% was among the best of his career, and his TOV% was the lowest, so he was more efficient in a smaller role.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Mar 11, 2021 | 2:08 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/11/22319644/utah-jazz-quarterly-update-quarter-two#537430925)


again he made 0 sense for the Jazz 0!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/ersan-ilyasovas-offseason-patience-pays

sounds like he's been working

[Xiao Yao You]

Tim MacMahon: More bad news for the Rockets: Coach Stephen Silas said Eric Gordon would get an MRI to determine the severity of his groin injury, but the guard has already been ruled out of Friday’s game in Utah. (https://*********.com/social/) Houston expects to have only the minimum eight players available vs. Jazz.
– via Twitter espn_macmahon (https://twitter.com/espn_macmahon)

[Xiao Yao You]

One year ago, Andy Larsen had writer’s block in the weirdest place. He was sitting on the floor of an NBA arena, his back against the scorer’s table, his Cole Haans pointed toward center court. Being present for the shutdown of the NBA season is a once-in-a-lifetime story. Larsen wanted to write something good. He just couldn’t get his vital organs on the same page. Glancing at his Fitbit, Larsen saw his heart rate climb to 100 beats per minute. But his brain was moving like Greg Ostertag. “I couldn’t get out more than a sentence at a time that made any kind of narrative sense,” he said (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU).
– via Bryan Curtis @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)



Larsen, who is 29, is one of two Utah Jazz beat writers at the Salt Lake Tribune. Thanks partly to his formative years as a TrueHoop Network blogger, Larsen asks tough questions without letting delicacy get in the way. Joe Ingles has blocked Larsen on Twitter. After a Jazz loss to the Pelicans this month, Larsen asked Donovan Mitchell why he missed so many dunks. “His charm is that he lacks all social tact,” said Ben Anderson, who covers the Jazz for KSLsports.com (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU).
– via Bryan Curtis @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)



March 11, 2020, was one of the great record scratches in sportswriting history. To find a decent comp, you’d have to go back to a spasm of terror at the Olympics or maybe a soccer riot. Three Jazz beat writers went to Oklahoma City to see whether the team could get a leg up on the 4-seed in the Western Conference. They wound up covering a league shutdown that signaled just how severe the pandemic would become in the United States. Personal fear became part of an NBA beat job in a way the writers had never experienced. “I like this [job] because I don’t have to see dead bodies,” said Anderson. “I like this because I don’t have to deal with the heavy part of it. The worst thing that is going to happen to me this year is that a bunch of 76ers fans are mad at me.” (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)
– via Bryan Curtis @ The Ringer
(https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)




The first thing to understand about March 9 is that the Jazz weren’t trying to protect the beat writers from Gobert. They were trying to protect Gobert from the beat writers. “The idea was that any of us unwashed media masses could infect Rudy Gobert,” said Larsen. Don’t put our $25 million-a-year shot blocker on the DL! When Gobert touched their recorders, the beat writers saw him offering an olive branch. As Anderson told me, “I thought that was Rudy trying to say, ‘Hey, I get we’re all being cautious. We’re all being careful. I’m going to show you I’m still willing to bridge this gap.’” “He’s telling us, ‘I’m not afraid of you. Don’t worry, guys, we’re cool,’” said Todd. “It was more like a sign of solidarity than anything.” (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)
– via Bryan Curtis @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)



A year ago, the Jazz beat writers were like a lot of Americans when it came to COVID-19. “Nobody was really overly alarmed,” said Jones. On the March East Coast road trip, Todd wondered whether she and Jones should buy masks. When Larsen is on the road, Walden normally watches games on TV at home. But on March 11, he asked his boss whether he could have the night off to take his son to an All Elite Wrestling event, where they were surrounded by thousands of other fans. “I knew that there were only a handful of cases in Utah,” said Larsen. “I knew that there were limited deaths in America. I was honestly frustrated by kind of the piecemeal establishment of some of these restrictions.” After Larsen landed in Oklahoma City, he and members of the Jazz’s in-house media team went to a bar to play trivia (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU).
– via Bryan Curtis @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)



In the media dining room, a source told Larsen that Gobert had been tested for COVID-19, which made the possibility that he had it slightly less remote. A few minutes later, the Jazz announced that Gobert wasn’t playing against the Thunder, after all. As tipoff approached, the writers sat in their press seats at the top of the lower bowl, watching the events that are now the subject of documentaries and oral histories. They saw the Thunder team doctor corner the refs. The PA announcer said the teams were awaiting “league confirmation” to start the game. “I’ve been covering the NBA for eight years,” said Todd. “There has never been an instance where you had to wait on league confirmation to start. That’s not a thing.” (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)
– via Bryan Curtis @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/nba/2021/3/11/22324651/utah-jazz-beat-writers-covid-19-positive-rudy-gobert?fbclid=IwAR0m5rWF0Hxx666T5sXwxkGLStjRaU8aHl 01s4hHGoMtBU6GillW1k3RKGU)

[Xiao Yao You]

Sarah Todd: Quin Snyder said that without practice time available that Ersan Ilyasova is going to be “thrown into the fire.” (https://*********.com/social/) Kind of sounded like we might see him tonight
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)



Eric Walden: Jazz coach Quin Snyder said the team will hold a moment of silence before tonight’s game against the Rockets for late health/performance staff member Doug Birrell: (https://*********.com/social/) “He was as special a person as I’ve ever known.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455184/jazz-looking-to-improve-rockets-looking-for-bodies/


“If teams are trying to take away our shooters or play our pick and roll game two-on-two,” Snyder said, “I think we can continue to be patient in the lane and not settle necessarily for early shots.”




defense?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/staff-post-second-half-ilyasova-impact-bold-predictions/


David: First some not as bold ones. Derrick Favors will regain some of his bounce, Bojan Bogdanovic will regain the consistency that made him so important last year. Joe Ingles’ minutes will decrease a bit to keep him fresh for the playoffs.




don't count on Ingles minutes going down. COTM doesn't work like that


Jake: Ilyasova provides the Jazz with everything they are missing. The typical starting lineup for the Jazz has Royce O’Neale playing the power forward position. When the second rotation comes in, typically Niang takes his position. O’Neale and Niang are 6’4” and 6’7” respectively. Gobert and Favors rarely play together which has forced the Jazz to play relatively small ball all season, with one big protecting the paint. Other than Gobert and Favors, the next tallest players (playing significant minutes) are Ingles and Bogdanovic, both around 6’8”. With Ersan in the lineup, the Jazz roster is much more fluid and flexible. Quin Snyder can play Ilyasova alongside one of Gobert/Favors without sacrificing the ability to stretch the floor. This allows for better defensive lineups when teams play big. Additionally, Ilyasova is better suited to guard some of the agile centers that have been difficult for Gobert (ex. Jokic, Vucevic, Embiid). Great pick-up by the front office.




someone gets it


Isaac: I don’t think the Jazz will make a move, not because they don’t want to but because the Jazz are just asset poor. Due to limitations on trading first rounders because of the protections on the pick sent in the Mike Conley trade, Utah can’t trade a first until 2026 (without some specific protection language). Also, every player who makes enough money to help match salaries in a trade is a key part of the team. So as much as I’d love it if the Jazz could find a way to get a Larry Nance Jr., John Collins, Aaron Gordon or even Harrison Barnes, the Jazz can offer as much in trade as many other teams. That leaves the buyout market, a place where the Jazz have never really been players. As the best team in the NBA so far, the Jazz might be able to be players on the buyout market this year but I don’t see any game-changing players that fit with the team actually getting bought out. I don’t know why the Bulls would buy out Otto Porter Jr.’s contract but if they do and he is at all healthy the Jazz know his agent Mark Bartelstein quite well and there seems to have been mutual interest with the Jazz and Porter in the past.




Porter is the guy if they aren't smart enough to trade Bojan


Mark: For better or worse, Utah’s contracts are so difficult to trade that there is just no way they are meaningful participants at the trade deadline. In a pure vacuum, Bogdanovic, O’Neale, and Ingles are all the type of player and contract that could be shifted around for better options, but for obvious reasons there is just no way Utah actually sends those guys away. Ryan Smith seems to really not care about the luxury tax for the tiniest of improvements, which is a… luxury… for Jazz fans. So I could definitely see Utah sniffing around for young wing talent, as they did with Rayjon Tucker last year. Gosh, I was so high on Tucker last year. I wish he worked out better




Tucker worked fine. Jazz decided they needed a 10 million dollar center and no PF though


David: In 1998, the Jazz were off the heels of their first-ever Finals appearance. And they had the league’s top record. That did not stop them from swinging the ill-fated Rony Seikaly deal that could/should have put them over the top. They knew they were close and saw a move that made a very formidable team even stronger. This 2021 version could be similar. Utah knows its rotation is one of the best in the Association. But it would not surprise me to see the front office swing a deal to become even stronger for the postseason. Chemistry is a major consideration, and you could jeopardize that with roster moves. But I also think the team’s leadership knows they are one of a handful of teams that could win it all, and chances like this do not happen every year.




might be their only chance. If they learned nothing from Stockton and Malone they should know that there isn't always a next year


At a minimum, the Jazz could be more of a buyout player than usually, as these teams tend to gravitate toward the contenders. Porter would make incredible short-term and long-term sense should the Bulls and he sever ties.




doubt he'd be with them long term. Couldn't pay him enough

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455198/jazz-get-wakeup-call-against-feisty-rockets/


“Very poor on a lot of levels,” Snyder said about the Jazz performance. “We gave up the paint, gave up everything. We gave up the paint, gave up threes. We were lucky didn’t make more shots.”




the D wasn't the problem in this one

As opposing, offenses spread the Jazz defense out, they pull Gobert further away from the rim, meaning he isn’t there to grab the defensive rebound. The same thing happens when Jazz perimeter defenders are beat off the dribble and Gobert is asked to help at the rim. When that happens, the rest of the roster has to rebound, and too often against Houston they simply waited for the ball to fall in their lap, or even let it hit the ground.




good thing they have two PF's at the end of the bench now!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455219/jazz-debut-new-earned-jersey-defeat-depleted-rockets-to-start-second-half-of-season/


Donovan “Spida” Mitchell led the Jazz with a game-high 28 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, one steal, and a block.




and along with his usual cohorts Bojan and Favors was the main reason they almost blew it


“The Stifle Tower”, Rudy Gobert, also tried his best to get a triple-double with 14 points, 13 rebounds, and six blocks.




triple double? :lol


Not only did Utah’s two superstars put up quality numbers but so did the supporting cast.




Mitchell is quality only if you don't want to look very deep

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50125084/very-poor-on-a-lot-of-levels-jazz-won-by-15-but-they-arent-too-happy-about-it


Mitchell watched rebounds fly by him, Derrick Favors displayed minimal effort in closing out on shooters, and, well, that about summed up the effort from the whole team for large portions of the game Friday.




pretty sure Bradley would give the effort for a lot less money

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/13/triple-team-signs-low/


• I think an obvious one is rebounding. Rebounds are hard work: you have to box out, you have to be physical, and you have to go jump to the ball. If you’re trying really hard, you’re probably getting a lot of contested rebounds.




having size to get physical doesn't hurt


I think you can argue that the Jazz showed all of those signs tonight. The Rockets had a 19-6 advantage in offensive rebounds, and it was pretty flagrant the offensive rebounds the Jazz let go by them at times. This is just straight up lack of effort from Joe Ingles to go get the ball, and you could argue that Donovan Mitchell could have done more to protect the situation, too.




Mitchell is exerting too much energy at the other end to expect him to box out!


There were certainly missed shot contests. Jae’Sean Tate isn’t a non-entity as a shooter, he takes two a game for even the normal Rockets. So I was surprised when Derrick Favors didn’t even think about getting his hand up on this one:




he already got his 30 mill!


Take this early play, for example: the Rockets put Mike Conley and Bojan Bogdanovic in a pick and roll, while Patton spaces Gobert out up top. Conley goes over the screen, and of course Bogdanovic is just not very good at defending two-on-one situations, so it’s an easy drop-off pass.




attacking Bojan. Wonder why they'd do that?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/12/22321543/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-win-despite-houston-rockets-fourth-quarter-surge-nba-donovan-mitchell


There’s this thing that Mike Conley is really good at. When he’s in the pick and roll with Rudy Gobert, he is very deliberate and slows down in the paint with a few dribbles and has a pretty easy short shot by the time he’s like 5 feet from the basket. Since Gobert is right there as a lob or pocket pass threat, the defense stays just far away enough from the ball-handler for a release. Mitchell is getting better at this and I have to think that being around Conley and seeing him have so much success with it has helped.



should have been learning from Joe already


I noticed quite a bit of negative reaction on social media to the way the Jazz played in the second half and I totally get it. I get being disappointed with the easily avoidable mistakes and the bad shot selection and being outrebounded by a team with barely any size at all. I get all that. But let’s look at this game in some wider context. The Jazz have had a rough week, mourning a member of the organization in Doug Birrell, who was the massage therapist for the team for more than 20 years and died over the All-Star break. And it was the first game after the break and they were going up against one of the worst teams in the league. All that combined, it’s pretty hard to expect them to play their absolute best. I know it’s not a great look but they got the win, so it’s not all horrible. With that being said, Snyder was not as forgiving as I was.



sure let's make excuses for them!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/12/22328691/houston-rockets-rudy-goberts-dominance-lead-the-utah-jazz-to-victory-donovan-mitchell


Season where we have been destroyed by offensive rebounds….
Maybe the team was in sleep walk mode….. but it has happened against real nba teams too…

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 13, 2021 | 4:11 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/12/22328691/houston-rockets-rudy-goberts-dominance-lead-the-utah-jazz-to-victory-donovan-mitchell#537494240)


tiny backcourt and no PF

[Xiao Yao You]

If you don’t know the name Josh Giddey now, the chances are you will eventually. Giddey has been earmarked as one of Australia’s next basketball superstars. In his debut season in the NBL the 18-year-old has already shown why NBA teams are watching him so closely ahead of this year’s draft, (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/josh-giddey-could-be-australian-basketballs-next-big-thing/13243664) and the impressive Melbourne-born teenager could well be heading to the Tokyo Olympics to represent his country in July.
– via Tom Maddocks @ ABC.net.au (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/josh-giddey-could-be-australian-basketballs-next-big-thing/13243664)



Giddey said Australian NBA veteran Joe Ingles had been a mentor. “Joe first reached out to me when I signed with Adelaide and kind of just welcomed me,” he said. (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/josh-giddey-could-be-australian-basketballs-next-big-thing/13243664) “But then when we started playing he’s been in constant touch with me, just giving me advice, helping me out with little things because he came through the same pathway as me with the NBL system.”
– via Tom Maddocks @ ABC.net.au (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/josh-giddey-could-be-australian-basketballs-next-big-thing/13243664)

[Xiao Yao You]

“He’s unique in so many ways,” Snyder said on two-time DPOY Gobert in an interview with the beIn Sports France’s NBA Extra. “I think first is his competitiveness. I haven’t been around a player that wants to win as bad Rudy does, (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/nba-news/1181499/quin-snyder-i-havent-been-around-a-player-that-wants-to-win-as-bad-as-rudy-gobert-does/) even in ping-pong. So that carries over on the court.”
– via EuroHoops.net (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/nba-news/1181499/quin-snyder-i-havent-been-around-a-player-that-wants-to-win-as-bad-as-rudy-gobert-does/)



“He’s incredibly generous,” Snyder said. “Rudy knows that the things that he’s done and earned in life have put him in a position to give back. And he does that. Both in Salt Lake and in France. He’s supportive of a lot of different people and organizations. On a personal level, he’s a wonderful friend. A friend you cherish whether you’re a teammate or a coach. Someone I really enjoy being around every day.” (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/nba-news/1181499/quin-snyder-i-havent-been-around-a-player-that-wants-to-win-as-bad-as-rudy-gobert-does/)
– via EuroHoops.net (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/nba-news/1181499/quin-snyder-i-havent-been-around-a-player-that-wants-to-win-as-bad-as-rudy-gobert-does/)



For many, the pandemic brought changes and challenges including for veteran NBA player and Juno homeowner Ersan Ilyasova. Several days a week for the last 4 months, Ilyasova and his coach Mike Souza used the gym at Lake Worth Christian School in hopes of getting the free-agent signed with an NBA team. (https://www.wpbf.com/article/veteran-nba-player-uses-local-schools-gym-during-free-agency/35826749) “It wasn’t easy with all these viruses and stuff like that but they just opened the door for us and it was unbelievable,” Ilyasova said.
– via Ana Espinosa @ WBPF (https://www.wpbf.com/article/veteran-nba-player-uses-local-schools-gym-during-free-agency/35826749)



Ilyasova and Souza say the Lake Worth Christian School gym gave them a safe space to practice but they faced other challenges because of COVID-19. “Really the difficult part was keeping him in shape because he wasn’t able to play with other people,” Souza said. (https://www.wpbf.com/article/video-of-102-year-old-joining-great-grandsons-virtual-gym-class-goes-viral/35827609) “He wasn’t able to work out with other people. Not because he didn’t want to but because I didn’t let him and I didn’t want him to get sick.”
– via Associated Press @ WBPF (https://www.wpbf.com/article/video-of-102-year-old-joining-great-grandsons-virtual-gym-class-goes-viral/35827609)

[Xiao Yao You]

Connor Letourneau: Steve Kerr on the Jazz: “They’re just a well-oiled machine. (https://*********.com/social/) … The puzzle really fits well for Utah.”
– via Twitter Con_Chron (https://twitter.com/Con_Chron)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Mike Conley on the @Utah Jazz approach to the second half of the season: “We’re trying to come into the second half with a 0-0 record mindset. (https://*********.com/social/) Not that we don’t want to keep the momentum going from what we’ve done the first half but to kind of reset our minds.”
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Connor Letourneau: Kerr on why the league-best Jazz are underrated: “Fans will always question teams that don’t have the traditional look of a championship team. By that, I mean no transcendent superstars.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter Con_Chron (https://twitter.com/Con_Chron)



Ben Anderson: Steve Kerr on the @Utah Jazz: “They’re kind of where we were five years ago, nobody’s gonna believe until they do it. And so all they have to do is use that chip and and that edge and keep doing what they’re doing and put themselves in a great spot.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)



Wes Goldberg: Steve Kerr on guarding the Jazz, the top 3-pt shooting team in the NBA: “We’ve got a game plan that we put together. Hopefully we’ll cover up that 3-point line better tonight, er, today.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter wcgoldberg (https://twitter.com/wcgoldberg)



I hope so. More Rudy at the rim!


Mark Medina: Steve Kerr on the team having multiple COVID-19 tests the night before an afternoon game on daylight savings time: It’s not a whole lot of fun. But this is the way it is. We have to do it.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter MarkG_Medina (https://twitter.com/MarkG_Medina)



Connor Letourneau: Kerr said the Warriors had to test at 10 p.m. last night because of today’s 1 p.m. tipoff. “It feels too early to be playing a basketball game right now,” Kerr said (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter Con_Chron (https://twitter.com/Con_Chron)



Ben Anderson: Warriors coach Steve Kerr on daylight savings: “t’s amazing how that hour always makes you feel, in either direction. So it sort of feels too early to be playing a basketball game right now, but this is what’s on the schedule and we’re all here so we’ll get ready to go.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Connor Letourneau: FINAL: Warriors get a 131-119 win over the Jazz. Quite a victory for Golden State, which snapped out of a four-game skid by leading almost the entire game against the league’s best team (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter Con_Chron (https://twitter.com/Con_Chron)



Anthony Slater: Maybe the best Andrew Wiggins game of the season: 28 points on 12/16 FG. Attacked the rim, which he hadn’t for weeks. Large part of a good defensive effort on Donovan Mitchell (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter anthonyVslater (https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater)



StatMuse: The Warriors are 25-1 when Draymond Green has a triple-double. That .962 W% is the highest by any player in NBA history with 10+ triple-doubles. (https://*********.com/social/) pic.twitter.com/Tsq92ObaiQ
– via Twitter statmuse (https://twitter.com/statmuse)



StatMuse: Rudy Gobert today: 24 PTS, 27 REB, 4 BLK Those 27 rebounds are a career-high and tied for the Jazz franchise record. (https://*********.com/social/) pic.twitter.com/9HTK7ZAzF4
– via Twitter statmuse (https://twitter.com/statmuse)





surprised that's a franchise record. Figured Truck had more

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Quin was asked if Derrick Favors is struggling physically: “You saw him on the offensive glass and he was really aggressive. … Obviously we had some struggles with that bench lineup, but that’s not on any one guy, that’s all of us.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Connor Letourneau: Draymond Green: “I don’t think there’s anyone better than me defensively. That’s always how I’ve felt, that’s not going to change now.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter Con_Chron (https://twitter.com/Con_Chron)





:roll:


Connor Letourneau: Draymond Green: “We’ve said it all year: That’s who this team is, when you defend like we defended tonight. … You look at this win, and it can be a turning point for anyone’s season.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter Con_Chron (https://twitter.com/Con_Chron)


you gave u 119 points but ok! :facepalm




Anthony Slater: Draymond Green on Jordan Poole: “Gotta give that kid a lot of credit. I’m not sure there’s anyone on the team in the gym more than him.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter anthonyVslater (https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater)



Wes Goldberg: Draymond Green on Jordan Poole: “He can score at every level and he has great feel for the game.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter wcgoldberg (https://twitter.com/wcgoldberg)



Wes Goldberg: Draymond Green on James Wiseman’s impact today: “The second unit had been struggling, and I think they were a lot better tonight and he was a big part of that.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter wcgoldberg (https://twitter.com/wcgoldberg)



Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert: “In the 1H, our offense really affected our defense. All those turnovers led to transition. When we got them in the half court, we made it tougher on them. … Steph got too many easy shots and we’ve got to make it tougher. We need to have more pride on defense.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert: “Every time we were moving the ball, we got great shots … when we dribbled too much, the efficiency goes way down. … Teams are doing a good job of putting us in those situations where we stop moving it.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



who could he be talking about? Mitchell and Clarkson maybe?




Wes Goldberg: Steve Kerr says the locker room wasn’t overly energetic but “very satisfied” after the win (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter wcgoldberg (https://twitter.com/wcgoldberg)





Anthony Slater: Steve Kerr on Jordan Poole: “If the matchups are right, there’s no reason he can’t be out there to close the game.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter anthonyVslater (https://twitter.com/anthonyVslater)




Wes Goldberg: Kerr: “I thought James was great. What a test to go against Gobert … it’s so exciting to think of where James is going to be down the road.” Adds Wiseman could have a similar career trajectory to Gobert (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter wcgoldberg (https://twitter.com/wcgoldberg)






He was better than last game not great. Runs the floor well

[Xiao Yao You]

Josh Lewenberg: Nurse says that at least some of the Raptors’ 5 players in the protocols have already been cleared for 1-on-0 work. He thinks they’ll all be back “in some capacity” next week, if not on Wednesday in Detroit than hopefully by Friday vs Utah (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter JLew1050 (https://twitter.com/JLew1050)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455318/jazz-fall-to-warriors-to-drop-start-road-trip/


Bojan Bogdanovic had perhaps his worst game in a Jazz uniform which severely limited the team’s ability to slow the Warriors’ attack.




might not be his worst this week


As a result of the forward’s struggles, Jazz coach Quin Snyder adjusted his lineup to close the game, keeping guard Joe Ingles in the game over Bogdanovic.




about time. Why'd he play 27 minutes?


Despite the loss, Gobert had one of the best stat lines in franchise history. Gobert became just the seventh player in NBA history to score at least 24 points, grab 27 rebounds, and block four shots.
He’s only the second player in league history to do it while missing two shots or fewer in the process.
Unfortunately for the Jazz, this is the first time in league history a player recorded those numbers only to see his team lose the game.



but let's talk about their best player!


The Jazz outscored the Warriors by 11 points in Gobert’s 32 minutes but were -23 when Derrick Favors replaced him in the lineup.




what's new?


The team’s 34 percent three-point percentage was bad against Golden State, though Bogdanovic and Royce O’Neale combining to shoot just 2-11 from deep submarined the Jazz chances of winning the game, and keeping their streak alive.




I'd say giving up 131 did but what do I know

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50125716/steph-was-steph-but-thats-not-the-only-reason-the-warriors-beat-the-jazz-on-sunday


Gobert played 32 minutes and the Jazz lost by 12. Those other 16 minutes were pretty rough.




must've been Bradley's fault


"We had some struggles with that bench lineup during that stretch — but that's not any one person, that's all of us," Jazz coach Quin Snyder said.




the bench was better than the starters when Rudy and Conley played with them

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/15/triple-team-is-it-fair/


There are a few explanations for this. One: the offensive struggles aren’t really Favors’ fault. He’s not an offensive mastermind, but is basically about as good as Gobert at offensive things. Instead, it shows how important Mike Conley is to the Jazz’s offensive execution. If Donovan Mitchell, Bojan Bogdanovic, Joe Ingles, and Jordan Clarkson are turning the ball over, the defense doesn’t have much of a chance to be good.




Favors isn't as good as Rudy on offense


But secondly: Favors isn’t a very good defender right now. Gobert had total control of the paint tonight, it was wildly impressive to watch. But as soon as Favors comes in the game, opponents immediately feel comfortable in attacking inside again. It’s like a light switch has come on in their heads.




like every game. He was never close to Rudy as much as you all want to sell that crap


Now, we should note that the full season numbers aren’t bad: 108 defensive rating on the year during Favors’ minutes — not as good as Gobert, obviously, but good enough. Playing backup center to Gobert is always going to be a tough job because the Frenchman is just such a defensive star, he’d make anybody look lackluster in comparison.




Bradley's was 106! Why was everything BRadley's fault but now Favors is good enough? He could play pick and roll, set screens and had the best offensive rebound % in the league. The difference is that he is young, cheap and improving vs declining and expensive :cry:

From the eye test, though, it does look like something that’s going to be trouble for the Jazz in the playoffs. It might be worthwhile to give Favors a breather here and there throughout the season, or to try Juwan Morgan or even Ersan Ilyasova or Georges Niang at center, to go full small-ball.




Niang? :roll:


I’m not asking Bogdanovic to eschew the drive game completely, but take this play: just take the open three! Driving into the paint just makes your life significantly more complicated — and mathematically less likely to succeed.




Mannion not Green


Finally, he just has to be more stout on the defensive end. The key mistake he made was in fouling a jump shooter on a 3-point shot, which kind of concluded the Jazz’s chances of staying close. But many players make mistakes like that, but simple drive-bys might be more damaging to the Jazz’s defense overall.




yeah right! :facepalm


In the end, Snyder played Joe Ingles down the stretch, despite Ingles not having a great game himself. I think that should be a point of flexibility: if Bogdanovic has it, he’s a terrific end-of-game weapon — he made two buzzer-beating game-winners last season, for goodness sakes! If he doesn’t have it, though, he can be a liability, and the Jazz have other options (Ingles, Jordan Clarkson) to consider.




Niang, Oni, Morgan, Ersan. Pretty much anyone but Bojan


So can rebounds: Gobert’s eight offensive rebounds came in large part because he was able to either tap out or secure rebounds against smaller guys trying their best to block him out.




or they have to foul him


Switching defenses have been real trouble for the Jazz in previous playoffs (Hello, Golden State and Houston series), but I’m much more confident in the Jazz’s ability to attack them in this iteration, thanks to Conley, Clarkson, and, yes, even Bogdanovic.





offense wasn't the problem but thanks

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/14/22329317/utah-jazz-turnovers-issue-loss-golden-state-warriors-nba-donovan-mitchell-stephen-curry


Turnovers were a glaring issue for the Jazz in the loss to Warriors




14 is a good night for them actually


There are definitely some instances where you can live with a turnover or not look back on it and be too disappointed. It’s the live-ball turnovers that were a direct result of the Warriors playing their game plan to a T and the Jazz not trying to correct things that were so egregious on Sunday.




not correcting is COTM's MO

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry


We have a Bogie problem
Tough call to make. When can a coach demote (move to the bench) a player knowing the psychological implications? That process may have started with the lineup that finished this game. Sad face.
We also have a Favors problem. He looks slower and slower as the season progresses. I hope the Jazz can reboot or defrag somehow.

Posted by templeguardtm (https://www.sbnation.com/users/templeguardtm) on Mar 14, 2021 | 4:50 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537546302)



We've had one. As I said last year in the bubble. They might be better without him. Offense isn't a problem with or without him. D is. Also where is Tony Bradley so we can blame him for all their ills?


The Jazz never recovered from GSW’s 13-0 run in a stretch in the 2nd quarter with Conley and Rudy out of the game at the same time.

Posted by Fesenko for President (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Fesenko%20for%20President) on Mar 14, 2021 | 5:39 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537548283)

I meant in the first quarter.

Posted by Fesenko for President (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Fesenko%20for%20President) on Mar 14, 2021 | 5:44 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537548476)



that was the game


And the 6 straight missed shots and turnover certainly contributed as much to the run as anything else.
Bogie missed 3, Joe turnover, Donny missed 3, Donny missed 2, Joe missed 3, Bogie missed 3, Jordan missed 3. Hard to put all the blame on Mike and Rudy being out.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 14, 2021 | 6:05 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537549217)



Bojan, Mitchell and Favors is a common theme and Clarkson hasn't been as good lately either


I kinda wish Q would match Gobert and Conley’s minutes with Steph’s rather than pulling them at 6:30. Probably also not the reason we lost. I blame Bogie for dribbling.

Posted by Karl Stalone 32 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Karl%20Stalone%2032) on Mar 14, 2021 | 6:42 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537550782)


I wish he'd keep guys in the game when they are playing well and benching guys that aren't.


I said all last season...
Playing behind rudy made tb look worse then he really was……
His advanced metrics were REALLY good

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 14, 2021 | 9:41 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537556288)



looked good to me. Youngest guy on team doing his job


Oni needs minutes
Outside of that, maybe a trade

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 14, 2021 | 10:46 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537557103)


He's not the answer


Thats the knock on bogey....
When he’s scoring he is an above average player, when he isnt he should be a DNPCD

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 14, 2021 | 11:21 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/14/22330556/utah-jazz-bad-defense-lose-to-golden-state-warriors-steph-curry#537557312)


as I've said I'm not sure he's a net positive even at his best

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: The NBA’s joint probe with the Utah Jazz’s independent, outside counsel could not corroborate allegations made by former player Elijah Millsap that Jazz executive Dennis Lindsey made an inflammatory comment in an April 2015 exit meeting, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell ESPN.
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)



Tim Reynolds: The NBA announces that an investigation into Elijah Millsap’s claims regarding his Utah Jazz exit interview did not establish that the alleged comment was made. (https://*********.com/social/) pic.twitter.com/YiM6d7OwL7
– via Twitter ByTimReynolds (https://twitter.com/ByTimReynolds)

[Xiao Yao You]

Chase Hughes: Scott Brooks on Raul Neto, joked pregame: “He’s definitely a poor man’s me, very poor. But he tries, he tries. I’m sure growing up in Brazil, I was his favorite player.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter ChaseHughesNBCS (https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS)





you sucked Brooks!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455397/jazz-look-to-celtics-to-stop-recent-skid/


Tuesday’s ket matchup will pit Brown against Jazz forward Bojan Bogdanovic. While Brown is having a career-year averaging 24.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, Bogdanovic has struggled in his second season with the Jazz.




Bojan is key! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50126217/from-the-comments-we-might-need-to-start-talking-about-derrick-favors


The Jazz's defense held the Warriors to 112.3 points per 100 possessions when Gobert was on the court. That number ballooned to 148.5 with him on the bench. Or in Layman's terms, the Jazz were outscored by 23 points in the 16 minutes Favors was on the court.




where's Tony Bradley when you need him


Full season numbers, however, are less worrisome: The Jazz have a 109.6 defensive rating with Favors on the floor over the course of the season, which is more than respectable. But if the recent trend continues, there are some questions that need to be answered before the playoffs roll around. Is Favors hurt? Do the Jazz need to try Juwan Morgan? Or does Gobert simply need to play more?




Do they need a new front office and coach?


After what Bojan Bogdanovic did last season, it probably hurts many Jazz fans to be critical of the Croatian sharpshooter. Bogdanovic was one of the best second options in the league in 2019-20, mostly due to him shooting 41% on a high-volume of 3s, but he hasn't quite regained that form.




one of the best? :lol


A Bogdanovic drive is not a plus-play right now, and so he should start being a little more selective when he does it. For example: not against Draymond Green or when he has even a remotely open 3-point shot.




never was. Can shoot. That's it


The good news: It wasn't the most effective play last season, either, and he was still extremely good on the offensive end. Despite his struggles this season, he's still shooting 39% from 3-point range. That's still more than good enough to keep him on the court, and to help the Jazz win.




is it though? Sure been losing a lot

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/15/22330254/five-most-pressing-questions-utah-jazz-heading-into-second-half-of-the-season


Gobert has had to take on a little bit different role as the Jazz have shifted more to a space and pace style of offense, but he’s adjusted well. He and Mitchell both made their second straight All-Star teams (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/2/23/22297287/donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-all-star-game-reserves-nba-2021-atlanta-mike-conley-snub) and Gobert will definitely be one of the leading contenders to win Defensive Player of the Year.




His role is the same. Finally put shooters around their best player. Only took 6 years


2. Will the Jazz make any moves before the trade deadline?



didn't seem likely when they were rolling but they better be looking now


There are a couple of ways to look at the Jazz as far as the trade market is concerned. One way is to see that they have a legitimate shot of winning a title this year and if they think they can make a move that gives them even more of a shot at a championship, then it could be worth going all-in.




only way to look at it. Already wasted the past 6 years just like they wasted 20 with the statues


On the other hand, the chemistry and continuity of the team has been a huge advantage for the Jazz this season and any move runs the risk of upsetting the balance that they’ve struck.




they suck right now. That's out the window


The Jazz do have one of the best defensive teams in the league and have played at a high level for the most part this season. When the Jazz’s wings are at their best and Gobert is locked in, they have looked like a well-oiled machine. But, on nights when their wing defenders routinely get beat it’s impossible for Gobert to make up for every mistake and the Jazz are overwhelmed.




are they though? Looks the same as last year except Bradley was better than Favors


There’s no question the Jazz could have used Bogdanovic’s shooting and dynamic scoring ability in the 2020 playoffs. Unfortunately, wrist surgery had him sidelined right up until the beginning of this season (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/5/18/21262574/report-utah-jazz-forward-bojan-bogdanovic-season-ending-surgery) and he’s had a bit of a tough go through the first half of the schedule. His shooting has been streaky and his efficiency is down across the board.




he needs to go at all costs


At this point, anything less than a Western Conference finals appearance would feel like a failure and disappointment.




anything less than a title. They'll be happy with another playoff appearance though. Favors is back. All is good in the world!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/salt-city-seven-ingles-involvement-playoff-picture-adding-ersan-more/


But the answer to the Jazz’s woes might not be a pie-in-the-sky trade proposal.




they need help. That was obvious since they signed Ed Davis instead of a 4. The Ersan signing makes me think they know it finally too. Hard to believe these guys are in charge


Ask just about any pundit what the Jazz could use the most to bolster their chances at a deep playoff run, and they’ll mention wing defense before they draw their first breath or pause to think. What that means is that they think Utah needs one more big body who can deter an iso scorer or sap some efficiency from opponent pick-and-rolls. Ideally that player needs to be able to can open threes at a minimum, and if he can help organize the unit on nights when execution is lacking, that’s all the better.




need a PF or one that COTM will play anyway


And yet he’s seventh on the team in minutes played, eighth (among rotation guys) in usage. He disappears to the bench down the stretch of close games, just when Utah’s need for some mature and efficient offensive creation is the most acute, and when stopping opposing ball handlers is most urgent. Why?




we've seen in the past he needs to play limited minutes. Ned O'neale concentrating on wing not PF


Ingles should probably be more involved, but the problem is that the Jazz have a half dozen guys they trust to close, and the NBA frowns on playing six guys at once. Gobert and Donovan Mitchell are crunchtime locks. Mike Conley probably should be too, although there may times when matchups might dictate more length. Royce O’Neale is Utah’s designated on-ball defender down the stretch, and while Bojan Bogdanovic is catching some heat right now, he has won Utah a lot of games this season and last as a late-game bucket getter.




Gobert/Conley and O'Neale should be the locks and probably Ingles


Even when he’s on the court with hybrid bench units, the ball should be in his hands more than it currently is. Instead, the Jazz do a lot of freelancing in those minutes, settling for offense that leads to middling outcomes. For example, Jordan Clarkson is still using nearly 29% of Jazz possessions while he’s on the court1 (https://saltcityhoops.com/salt-city-seven-ingles-involvement-playoff-picture-adding-ersan-more/#note-1), despite the fact that there are more efficient options all around him. That’s not only almost double Ingles’ usage, it’s also significantly higher than Conley’s, Bogey’s or Gobert’s. That was fine during the first month of the season when JC was shooting lights-out, but the law of averages has tugged him right back to the mean (.577 true shooting, league average is .572) and the Jazz haven’t really adjusted yet.




he's sucking but once again D is the problem not O


In a vacuum, he’s not necessarily an upgrade over anybody currently in the rotation, so who knows what his role will be in these last 34 games. But sometimes you can win a game just by having another skillset available on your bench, either because someone was struggling, got hurt, or just because you need a different look. At the prorated vet minimum, it’s a good depth signing.




He joins Morgan as the only 4's on the team. Too bad they are at the end of the bench


As popular as Derrick Favors is, at some point it’s probably fair to acknowledge that he’s struggling to protect the rim this season. When he’s on the court, teams are getting 5% more shots at the rim, making 6.3% more of them, and overall shooting 3.3% better. All of those figures are in the bottom 10% of the league, per Cleaning the Glass. Some of that is because he alternates court time with a 2-time DPOY, but not all of it. In his last six Jazz seasons, opponents mostly shot somewhere in the 47-55% range at the rim with Favors nearby, with one outlier year at 58% when his back wasn’t right. Right now, they’re shooting 60%.




Let's blame Bradley!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/15/22331587/oil-and-water-dont-mix-neither-should-mitchell-and-clarkson-due-to-defense


Is Derrick Favors injured, over the hill, or overmatched?
Bojan Bogdanovic can’t guard a barstool
Quin is being stubborn about lineup decisions
Jazz are turning the ball over and not rebounding


all of the above


Bogey has certainly had ups and down shooting the ball this year but from a defensive standpoint, it’s been consistently bad. While Bojan has lived in the “C” grade range for his career per B-Ball Index, he’s trending toward an “D-”/“F” grade this season.



COTM!


Donovan Mitchell and Jordan Clarkson are two of the most exciting, highlight-prone players the Jazz have. With their dynamic styles of play, fans might naturally want to see them on the floor together carving up defenses.




I wouldn't


The front office and coaching staff should continue to explore options for trades, role adjustments, and strategy tweaks. All of the above possibilities, however, involve a lot of unknowns and an amount of data that is less than satisfactory.




but we love these guys!


Our starting five gives a terrific balance:
Crafty, efficient, good defensive point guard
Dynamic high-usage shooter who can pressure the rim or pop from three
Defensive specialist who doesn’t need to do more than guard with length, rebound, and make open shots
Sniper at the 4 who can put a body on his man and occasionally drive
Long, sound rim protector

Those roles should stay more or less the same regardless of our lineups, which is workable because we have two cogs for each one, so long as we give Oni some time.
Joe, Clarkson, Oni, Niang, and Favors fit pretty closely the same roles that the starters do.
Joe can flex a bit and cover either the Conley role or the Royce role, but we should not be doubling up any of them (and thus shouldn’t have Mitchell and Clarkson out there at the same time). And I’d rather have Joe taking point guard duties than DM if Jordan is on the court, so Oni should be getting those minutes backing up Royce.
This slump might just be a fluke with how crazy hot all of our opponents have been shooting it, but we certainly have been extra porous defensively. Hopefully we can make the right fixes to get the mojo back.

Posted by Korumbian (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Korumbian) on Mar 15, 2021 | 1:25 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/15/22331587/oil-and-water-dont-mix-neither-should-mitchell-and-clarkson-due-to-defense#537575188)


Oni's not the guy yet. Ersan or Morgan are. Bojan has to go or at least be benched but I'd rather have those two and Niang than Bojan

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/03/14/nba-trade-rumors-candidates-landing-spots-lowry-lakers/14/


NBA trade candidate: Kevin Love, Cleveland Cavaliers



no thanks. Nance or Prince sure!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/16/22334059/utah-jazz-head-to-boston-to-take-on-the-celtics-nba-tnt-game-preview-donovan-mitchell


Utah will take on the Boston Celtics (https://www.celticsblog.com/) in hopes of finding their groove again. Or if that’s possible. Utah has a serious issue right now on the defensive end with their second unit. In the last 6 games the Jazz have the 24th ranked defense in the NBA, a far cry from the defense that was top 5 in the league for the season. Considering how good Rudy Gobert has been, you can see where some of these problems originate.




Conley and Rudy were better with bench last game. Bojan and Mitchell start

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455504/donovan-mitchell-players-hero-as-jazz-sweep-celtics/


“Whether it’s labeled hero ball, I really don’t care,” Mitchell said after the game. “I think my teammates, my coaches want me to have the ball at the end of the game and that’s all that matters. I know what I can do late in the game.”




sadly you are correct



Over Bogdanovic’s final three quarters on the floor, the forward scored 12 points on 3-8 shooting, grabbed six rebounds, and handed out two assists. The forward was back in the closing lineup for the team after being benched to finish the loss to Golden State.




3-8! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50127466/hero-ball-or-not-donovan-mitchells-late-surge-gives-jazz-win-over-celtics


Mitchell is shooting just 31.6% from the field in clutch situations, and the majority of the Jazz's losses recently have come because of those shortcomings when things get tight. With Utah playing so few clutch minutes this minutes, those instances seem to stand out on a season filled with so much other success.




things were tight because of bad D


It's a job the Jazz have clearly given him. Mitchell has a usage rating of 41.7% during clutch minutes this season. You could say that's Mitchell playing hero ball, but with how the Jazz offense usually runs, it's clear that's a team decision. Utah wants him to run the show down the stretch. While that can be a bit head scratching at times — like when he's going up against Marcus Smart and Mike Conley, Utah's All-Star guard, is not — it also can be effective. Smart on him or not, Mitchell found a way to win the game.




it's stupid Conley should have the ball. Ingles 2nd


It's not about simply making shots either. Mitchell can break down a defense and has some of the best vision on the team — if someone is open, he can usually find a way to get it to them. He also hasn't turned it over a ton lately, especially considering his high usage rate. His struggles have come down to shots falling or bouncing out. That's the way it is sometimes, but his teammates still want the ball in his hands. Tuesday was the latest example of why that is.




Really? High turnovers, bad shots, no D...


"It comes with the opportunity I've been given since my rookie year," he said. "Shots that everyone doesn't take, I take — it's part of my role. It's called hero ball to some, but not to me. It's the shots I work on. The shots that may look tough are the shots I put hours and hours in the summer working on. ... If it's labeled hero ball, I really don't care," Mitchell said. "I think my teammates and my coaches want me to have the ball at the end of the game and that's all that matters. I know what I can do late in the game and that's that."




maybe you should work on the things you suck at?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50127465/patrick-kinahan-about-time-krystkowiak-out-at-utah


Clamoring a return to the 1990s, when coach Rick Majerus routinely won conference championships and made the accompanying NCAA Tournament, many of the Utah faithful want to tap into the program's heritage for the new coach. The obvious choice is Alex Jensen, who meets the criteria on multiple levels.
Jensen played for Majerus, starting on the 1997-98 team (https://www.ksl.com/article/46291868/looking-back-on-the-runnin-utes-historic-1998-final-four-season-20-years-later) that reached the national championship game. He also was an assistant on his staff after Majerus came out of his several retirements to coach at St. Louis.
Now a highly regarded assistant for Quin Snyder on the Utah Jazz, Jensen has aspirations and is in line to become an NBA head coach. At the same time, Harlan could throw a huge payday at Jensen to get him to come home.
But don't bet on it. Jensen can bide his time until an NBA position becomes available and avoid all the groveling required to recruit high school teenagers.


maybe Krysto to the Jazz?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/17/triple-team-jazz-come-out/


That, to me, is the difference. I wrote about Mitchell’s pick-and-roll game here (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/15/how-key-utah-jazz-players), but the numbers are clear: he’s most efficient when he’s finding open teammates on the perimeter or taking the dribble jumper. Those are simple plays, but effective ones. And so long as he’s being a hero at making those plays, I’m all in favor of hero ball.




no thanks


Bojan Bogdanovic had about the worst first six minutes you can have as a basketball player. He alone committed three turnovers in those minutes, two of which ended up with Celtics runout baskets. He also played some lack-luster defense, missed shots, and then didn’t hustle after a rebound, which ended up being Celtics ball.




what's new?


Halftime came, and Quin Snyder called the first two plays of the second half to be post-ups for Bogdanovic. This was a statement: “we need you, Bogey.”




it's a statement that the Jazz really have no chance


He hit the first shot from the post-up, a fadeaway mid-ranger that he’s actually pretty efficient at. And on the next play, when the defense collapsed, he kicked it out for an open three.




almost lost his dribble. Anything but the sidestep dribble for 3 he shouldn't ever do


Bogdanovic’s line from tonight still isn’t great: 12 points, 3-9 FG, 1-5 3P, two assists, and those three turnovers. But Bogdanovic and Snyder turned a problematic performance in the first half into an average one in the second half.




Yay an average Bojan instead of a positive Morgan or Ersan!


“I have so much confidence in him,” Snyder said. “He was great tonight. And I just want him to play. Don’t think, just play and be aggressive. And that’s what he did.”




Great? COTM! :facepalm


But no! He drives, taking advantage of Walker’s aggression, forces the rotation, and then found the open shooter with a terrific pass.




too bad he can't do that regularly


I bring it up because Clarkson had actually reverted to being a little one-dimensional recently — and his coaching staff had noticed. In fact, Clarkson revealed postgame that he and Snyder talked about Clarkson’s need to make plays for others after the Warriors game.




Really? You're the one that turned him loose. :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/16/22333968/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-take-over-in-the-fourth-quarter-to-beat-boston-celtics-rudy-gobert


The Jazz had quite a few possessions in which they played lockdown defense, and there were flashes of what we saw through the tear they went on the first half of the season. After quite a few games looking just off and unfocused, they looked like they started to get back on track, and that was true for the team collectively and for some individual players.




might just match up well with the Celtics


Derrick Favors has had a tough stretch of games (that’s being generous) and was much, much better against the Celtics. You’ve got to hope he watches the film from this win and sees the difference in his game. He was more aggressive and was moving his hands more, and his timing was a lot better.



and still not that good


Some fun heated exchanges between Brown and Donovan Mitchell. The two are very close friends off the court and that seems to make for more intense battles on the court. It reminded me about a time many years ago when LeBron James was talking about playing against Carmelo Anthony, who is one of his best friends. They wanted to go against each other and make the other one look bad. There are certainly rivalries between players that have beef with one another, but those friendly rivalries can be just as entertaining.




not much fun. Just Mitchell going hero ball like he did against Simmons. Never a good look


The last few minutes of the fourth quarter, Mitchell had some great plays and hit a couple huge 3s that pretty much put the game away. But Mitchell has been a little off. He deferred a little bit once it was clear that he didn’t have it going on Tuesday, and he hit the monster treys late. Tut the Jazz have the weapons for him to be able to focus his energy on the defensive end and let him get into the game from that end rather than forcing. I’m not worried about Mitchell, just a note.



defense? :roll:


Bojan Bogdanovic has had a rough stretch of games and though he had a couple of good moments against the Celtics as the game progressed, he was a huge part of the Jazz’s bad first quarter. He too turned it around later by working in the post, but the bad stretches from Bogdanovic feel really impactful and hard to rebound from, especially the live-ball turnovers.




the defense is the worst part

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/16/22292873/the-utah-jazz-bounce-back-with-a-big-time-win-in-beantown


The fourth quarter was Rudy Gobert time. When he was in the game, the Jazz dominated. When he sat, the Celtics came right back. Gobert was a +16 in the fourth quarter alone, and it was very evident watching the game. When Celtics dared isolate against Gobert off a switch, he taught them lessons. When his teammates got him the ball, he dunked it, no matter who was in his way. Rudy Gobert played with attitude tonight.




the story of the last 6 plus years


Boston kept it close. Marcus Smart’s defense forced the Jazz to commit turnovers, and Brown and Tatum made Utah pay for their carelessness. It’s a good thing the Utah Jazz have a closer. Even with a rough shooting night, Donovan Mitchell knows he is a star. In the biggest moments of the game, he came through. With just over a minute left, Mitchell fought through handsy defense from Smart, navigated a Gobert screen, and pulled up for a deep three. Bang.




thinks he's a star. not the same




I think quinn isn't really focused
On the regular season.
Putting minutes on rudy when we already have home court doesn’t make a ton of sense

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Mar 17, 2021 | 3:01 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/16/22292873/the-utah-jazz-bounce-back-with-a-big-time-win-in-beantown#537639374)



home court throughout they need


When Rudy sits, Donny, Royce, and Bogie are usually coming back in and they have to be ready to play. Some games it has taken them a few possessions to get going and it has hurt us.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 17, 2021 | 3:59 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/16/22292873/the-utah-jazz-bounce-back-with-a-big-time-win-in-beantown#537639586)


Mitchell and Bojan. Good luck with that

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/16/22334043/march-madness-bracket-for-utah-jazz-franchise-john-stockton-karl-malone-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert


Can you imagine if Rudy Gobert had been the center for John Stockton and Karl Malone? They would have held teams to like 7 points per game. Any surprises here? Potential upsets? Honestly, these will probably be fairly chalk for the most part. But a real matchup of Rudy Gobert and Mark Eaton would have been crazy to watch.




Eaton sucked!. Collins? Where's Rich Kelly?


I’m embarrassed to admit that I had a really hard time filling this one out all the way. Part of that is due to people playing multiple positions and trying to decide which fit better. But part of that is also that the Utah Jazz power forward history gets relatively thin pretty quickly. After Karl Malone, you could argue some of the seeding here. I went with Derrick Favors #2 because of his career contributions while in a Jazz jersey even if the peaks of other players here were higher. Don’t sleep on Big T in the first round here!

Favors was never better than Millsap and Thurl was more of a 3. Marvin sucked. Chambers? :facepalm


The SF’s was a lot quicker to fill out. I had a really hard time leaving off Joe Johnson here. I probably could have done a larger bracket in this region honestly. Where Gordon Hayward fits in the end will be interesting. People have come around on Deron Williams and like him again. Could the same be said of Hayward in 5 or 10 years?




Joe was a 4.


Jazz have a very deep shooting guard history. This might be the most talented group if you look at it from 1-8. Putting Donovan as the 1 seed is more based on where I expect his career to end. Which is saying something, because having Pete Maravich, Jeff Hornacek, and Darrell Griffith below you is impressive! I’m sure I missed someone in this group, so let me know who else should have been included!




Bell? Boone? :lol


In the end, I imagine the “Final Five” would just be the #1 seeds from each position. And can you imagine that roster?
John Stockton
Donovan Mitchell
Andrei Kirilenko
Karl Malone
Rudy Gobert


Mitchell and AK over HOFers? :facepalm


I think Millsap/Faves and Hayward/Dantley are the closest calls, though Pistol/Mitch is a tough one as well and depends on whether you assume Mitchell will maintain his level/continue to develop. Hard to compare a kid with less than 4 years in the league to a Hall of Famer, but I think I’d still take Mitch.

Posted by Korumbian (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Korumbian) on Mar 16, 2021 | 1:58 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/16/22334043/march-madness-bracket-for-utah-jazz-franchise-john-stockton-karl-malone-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert#537618488)


idiot


I feel like AD fits more in the Power Forward bucket myself, and should definitely be number 2 there. If you leave him on the SF list, he should also have been 2 there anyways.
I felt like Paul Millsap got shafted in this seeding, he should have been higher than Favors. No disrespect to Favs (because he’s awesome and I love the man) but Thrillsap deserves some love simply for the Miracle in Miami, and also because he also had a decently long stint as a Jazzman and his peak in The Peaks was higher than Favors ever achieved (or maybe I’m letting the Miracle in Miami continue to cloud my remembrances).
Who the heck is John Drew? Are you sure you didn’t mean Shandon Anderson https://fonts.voxmedia.com/emoji/unicode/1f609.png
You gotta add in the Sundiatta as an 8 seed somewhere, just for the potential upset potential.

Posted by 15,806 assists (https://www.sbnation.com/users/15,806%20assists) on Mar 16, 2021 | 3:07 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/16/22334043/march-madness-bracket-for-utah-jazz-franchise-john-stockton-karl-malone-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert#537620946)


Royce is a PF why not AD! :oldlol:


Gobert is also a runaway with the C position, though there’s 1-2 players who you could say were also pretty good (just not good enough to really challenge Gobert; Eaton and Okur).
Dantley is listed with the SF, and I think he’s pretty clearly UTA’s best in that bracket. He led the league in scoring twice and made six all-star teams while in UTA and averaged 29.6/6.2/3.7/1.1/.1. But to simplify my life, I’m moving him to the SG bracket*. Depending on your criteria, the remaining SF could almost be close between AK and Hayward. Very different players so hard to really compare. Hayward’s best season in UTA was probably better than AK’s but not by much. AK’s UTA tenure was much stronger than Hayward’s, so I think AK gets a pretty easy win, unless your criteria is best single season.
If you don’t count Dantley as a SG, I think Maravich probably edges DM out. By the time his time in UTA ends, DM should easily surpass Maravich but I don’t think he’s there yet. If you don’t want to count Maravich because his Jazz career was almost entirely in New Orleans, I’m happy giving DM the win now. This shouldn’t be a debate in 3-4 years.
*By considering Dantley a SG, I’m basically saying AK and Hayward were better than the SGs. Another 3-4 years for DM will probably have him above AK and Hayward, and I’d be happy moving Dantley back to SF.

Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Mar 16, 2021 | 3:08 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/16/22334043/march-madness-bracket-for-utah-jazz-franchise-john-stockton-karl-malone-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert#537620984)


Take Tag over Okur or Eaton. Kelly should be 2nd though. AD was a SF primarily though him and Drew played together briefly. 4 HOFers and the franchises 3rd most important player. It shouldn't even be a discussion. The bench is a discussion


Gobert (MVP potential; HOF potential – but Eaton is closer than one might think)
Malone (HOF)
Dantley (HOF; Kirilenko never; Hayward maybe but for his performance for someone other than the Jazz)
Mitchell (All-star multiple times; HOF potential)
Stockton (HOF, GOAT true PG, two unachievable records)
Team
Okur (Weak defender but better offensive weapon; Gobert/Malone is one too many post players – I won’t quibble with Gobert though)
Malone
Hayward (much better perimeter game than AK-47)
Mitchell (Maravich was not his best self as a Jazzman; no sterling defenders in the group)
Stockton

Posted by jmnunes5 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/jmnunes5) on Mar 16, 2021 | 3:43 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/3/16/22334043/march-madness-bracket-for-utah-jazz-franchise-john-stockton-karl-malone-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert#537622115)


Go watch some Eaton and tell me it's close! Malone became more of a perimeter player. Him and Rudy are the only answers. Maravich was at his best with the Jazz. You could maybe argue Horny as a role player here. Maravich over Mitchell no question

[Xiao Yao You]

Jorge Sierra: Best scoring marks in a game while taking 20 shots tops Adrian Dantley, 1980: 50 points with no threes! DAMIAN LILLARD, 2021: 50 points Willie Burton, 1994: 53 points – via Twitter *********




too bad he can't make an all time Jazz team! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

StatMuse: Rudy Gobert has 112 blocks this season, 10 fewer than league leader Myles Turner. However, he has committed 35 fewer fouls than Myles Turner. He is the only player with more blocks than fouls this season (https://*********.com/social/) (min 70 blocks). pic.twitter.com/lSrsCbeHdo
– via Twitter statmuse (https://twitter.com/statmuse)

[Xiao Yao You]

Just days before a controversial bill aiming to bar transgender athletes from participating in girls’ sports died in a state Senate committee, Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith expressed his concerns in a backroom meeting, (https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2021/03/16/exclusive-how-utah-jazz/) The Salt Lake Tribune has learned. According to sources with direct knowledge of the meeting who were not authorized to speak publicly, Smith and Utah Jazz President Jim Olson participated along with Rep. Kera Birkeland, R-Morgan, the sponsor of HB302, a handful of legislators and other interested parties. Smith joined the meeting via teleconference.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2021/03/16/exclusive-how-utah-jazz/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Mike Conley is OUT tomorrow vs. Washington due to hamstring injury management (https://*********.com/social/). He is expected, though, to play against the Raptors on Friday.
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50127921/from-the-comments-you-may-have-heard-this-one-before-but-rudy-gobert-is-really-good


In the fourth quarter, Gobert had 11 points, six rebounds, two blocks and was a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line, including four made freebies in the final minute to help seal the win for Utah. Speaking of free throws, Gobert is shooting 71% from the stripe over the last 15 games, which is not bad for the big man.




not bad for any big man


'Bogey seems to be in a major slump right now. He's passing up open threes and isn't making many.' — Stephen P



the bigger problem is his D

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/03/17/utah-jazz-rudy-gobert-mocks-site/


It’s not as if Rudy Gobert hasn’t been a spellbinding contributor to all the Utah Jazz successes this season. No, he’s arguably been both the most important and most captivating member of the roster, obviously deserving of personalized highlight reels pretty much every outing.




arguably?

[Xiao Yao You]

Fred Katz: Raul Neto is questionable for tonight’s game with a left rib contusion, the Wizards say. Neto played last night in the loss to the Kings (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter FredKatz (https://twitter.com/FredKatz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Fred Katz: Scott Brooks on the Jazz’s success: “They got a lot of good players. They’re well coached. They’ve got All-Star players, Sixth Man of the Year. (https://*********.com/social/) Three All-Stars on the team and Bogy is right there.”
– via Twitter FredKatz (https://twitter.com/FredKatz)





Bojan! I guess Brooks doesn't watch much film. No wonder they suck! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/18/22338348/utah-jazz-will-look-to-begin-another-win-streak-against-the-washington-wizards


That production has buoyed the Jazz during a period where there offense has stagnated. During the stretch before last night against Boston, the Jazz had the #24 offense in that span and the #12 defense. Gobert is the thing that kept Utah afloat at that time. To be honest, Gobert is the one that keeps this team afloat at all times. His production on both ends of the floor is the thing that makes this Jazz team roll and he deserves so much more respect than he gets.




but he's not their best player! :roll:


Bogdanovic is the x-factor for this team in a lot of ways. If Bogdanovic has one of those games where he goes 5/10 from three and is moving the ball within the offense, it makes this Jazz team very potent. When he lacks confidence and dribbles into good defenders and turns over the ball, it gums everything up and create opportunities for the opposing team.




even when he's good he's not really


I think Bogie has been mismanaged. When he first started with the Jazz he successfully drove to the basket often enough that the Jazz thought they found a Bogie skill untapped by his former teams. Fools’ gold. He is exactly as other teams saw him, a stand there and wait for the pass player. This is what he is and should be. No driving, and little to no post ups.
And no passing. Seriously, no passing. If Bogie has one assist that’s a mistake. For every assist there are multiple passes that lead to transition dunks. It’s just not worth it. Shoot the ball, Bogie.

Posted by templeguardtm (https://www.sbnation.com/users/templeguardtm) on Mar 18, 2021 | 3:04 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/18/22338348/utah-jazz-will-look-to-begin-another-win-streak-against-the-washington-wizards#537703818)


someone gets it just not COTM. He rarely turned over the ball before joining the Jazz for a reason


Trade Idea
I know a team should never try to make a deal with a direct competitor. However, LAC needs a PG and UTA needs a big wing defender. The trade machine says a deal of Conley to LAC for Morris, Beverly, and Zubac works. The problem is that Morris still has three more years, Beverly one more year, and Zubac another year plus a team option.
Of course, I think if the Jazz make this deal, then they have to move Favors because I think they would rather have Zubac backing up Gobert than Favors (much as I love him).
Does the UTA front office go for this? Conley seems essential to solid Jazz performance and Beverly is a step down. But the Jazz get bigger in the post and on the wing which are concerns.
Does the LAC front office go for this? I think the universal opinion of the pundits is that they need an upgrade at PG but they would be giving up three rotation players for a star PG who has had recent hammy problems.
Thoughts?

Posted by jmnunes5 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/jmnunes5) on Mar 18, 2021 | 2:35 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/18/22338348/utah-jazz-will-look-to-begin-another-win-streak-against-the-washington-wizards#537702510)



yeah trade Conley! :coleman:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/03/17/utah-jazz-respect-championship-favorite/


As good as Rudy Gobert (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/g/goberru01.html?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-) is at frustrating smaller opponents, blocking shots and forcing missed shots possession after possession, he struggles to guard big men who are more versatile, skilled, or athletic than he is. In two games against the Jazz, Nikola Jokic has combined for 82 points, 26 rebounds, and 14 assists on 63 percent shooting. This would be worrisome on its own, but it’s not Jokic alone that Gobert struggles to contain. In the last game before the All-Star break, the Jazz lost an overtime game to the Sixers in which Joel Embiid scored 40 points. It’s not that performances like this show that Gobert is a bad defender, but that he is an occasionally limited one. While it’s true that Jokic and Embiid have made any number of defenders look silly this season, most of them aren’t considered cornerstones of a team that is hoping to contend for a title.




look a bit deeper

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/03/18/utah-jazz-mitchell-outpacing-malone/


That’s the least amount of games to do so in franchise history. Previously, Karl Malone (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/malonka01.html), whose 36,928 points still sit No. 2 in NBA history, held that Jazz record at 271 games.




Karl wasn't first option as a rookie

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/competition-watch-what-weve-learned-so-far-about-a-potential-jazz-clips-matchup/


Competition Watch: What We’ve Learned So Far About a Potential Jazz-Clips Matchup (https://saltcityhoops.com/competition-watch-what-weve-learned-so-far-about-a-potential-jazz-clips-matchup/)

might as well wait until after buyouts to talk about this


Ty Lue tipped his hand in the February 19 win, deploying a small-ball lineup with Marcus Morris at center in the 4th quarter. Whether it was the lineup, Morris’ hot shooting, or Kawhi’s offensive rebounds that deserve credit for the win is up for debate. But the template for countering Utah could be playing five shooters to pull Rudy Gobert away from the paint (that may sound simple and obvious, but few teams have the personnel to effectively do this). We didn’t get a chance to see Utah’s counter. Gobert isn’t going to beat smaller defenders with post-moves, but he can win those matchups with lobs and offensive rebounds — that Leonard stole a pair of crunch-time boards buried Utah’s hope of a comeback. If LA relies on this lineup more in the playoffs, it means fewer rotational minutes for Ivica Zubac and Serge Ibaka, both solid players. If this is a Clippers trump card, Quin Snyder will now have time to prepare for it.




COTM counter? :lol


The Jazz just signed Ersan Ilyasova. Even if he earns minutes away from the likes of current ninth man Georges Niang, he doesn’t really change how the Jazz play schematically. It’s unlikely any player added through the buyout market will crack the rotation. At this point added players are more likely injury insurance. If there is a player that would help against the Clippers, it could be perimeter defender. But there are few players out there who can legitimately slow down George or Leonard. Fans have wondered if Trevor Ariza has enough in the tank, but he was traded to Miami on Wednesday to help the Heat with their own battle for playoff seeding.




Otto Porter


Unfortunately the Clippers are bigger destination, and may have first dibs on the more impactful buyout players. To wit, Nicolas Batum ultimately chose to join the Clippers after his offseason buyout, even though we recently learned that his countryman Gobert made a push to recruit him (https://www.latimes.com/sports/clippers/story/2021-03-06/clippers-nicolas-batum-redemption-story).




They can't have everyone. Jazz are one of the teams guys are going to want to go to. Porter and Jazz had mutual intrest. Makes sense. They need him more than anyone


On Utah’s end, keep an eye on Bojan Bogdanovic’s perimeter defense. He’s been largely fine this season, and Snyder does a good job of hiding him on the defensive end. But opposing offenses have targeted Bogey more than usual over the last several games. In the playoffs, he and Niang will certainly need to be up to the challenge if teams decide to go at them. Fortunately Niang, at least has shown great improvement in those situations.




Will COTM do what is necessary? Doubt it!


The Clippers have the clear superstar advantage. Kawhi may be the player you most want on your team in the playoffs outside of LeBron James. But the star advantage may not be that lopsided. It’s unclear what version of Paul George we’ll see. The narrative on Rudy is that he’s not as impactful in the playoffs. Last year he averaged 16.9 points, 11.4 rebounds, on 63.8 TS%. Yes, Jokic had a great series, but Rudy’s defense affects opposing systems more so than individual center matchups. And then there’s Donovan Mitchell, who averaged 36.3 points, 5 rebounds, 4.9 assists, with 69.6 TS%. Kawhi has proven he can elevate his game in the postseason, but Donovan has too.




let's not compare a bubble loss with championships please

Jazz can beat Clippers. Lakers are the bigger worry or should be

[Xiao Yao You]

Chase Hughes: Scott Brooks says Jazz wing Bojan Bogdanovic is “as good as anybody at being a third or fourth option on a team.” (https://*********.com/social/) Bogdanovic played for the Wizards in 2017 before leaving in free agency.
– via Twitter ChaseHughesNBCS (https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455660/jazz-suffer-worse-loss-of-season-to-wizards/


Donovan Mitchell scored 42 points, Joe Ingles had a career-high 34, but without Mike Conley in the lineup who sat out to rehab his injured hamstring, the Jazz slow start allowed the Wizards to own the lead for the final 43 minutes of the game.




don't thinlk it's injury rehab. They thought they could win without him so he got the night of as a precaution


Even on non-paint two-point shots, the Wizards completed a remarkable 50 percent of their 26 attempts, and 57 percent of their 26 attempts inside the paint, but outside of the restricted area.




stopped the corner 3's!!! :facepalm


Bojan Bogdanovic’s struggles continued as the forward shot just 2-12 from the floor, including 0-6 on threes on mostly very good looks. Bogdanovic was aggressive attacking the rim but earned only two free-throws on the night to finish with six points.




28 minutes! He must've have been doing something right COTM?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455644/donovan-mitchell-erupts-for-20-point-third-quarter-during-jazz-wizards-game/


Despite he scoring Mitchell posted a minus-17 rating during his first 29 minutes on the floor.




how is that even possible? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50129258/its-a-new-season-that-starts-now-jazz-hoping-loss-to-wizards-serves-as-much-needed-wake-up-call


Utah is 2-4 in its last six games and have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league over that span. The team that has been in the top 5 in defense for practically the entire season didn't suddenly forget how to stop people, so what's changed?




don't think anything has. They weren't a great defensive team last year. Same team. Same results. Funny how that works

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50129202/mitchell-goes-over-40-ingles-sets-new-career-high-but-jazz-still-fall-to-wizards


"I think containing the ball, communication," Mitchell said about the team's defensive woes. "That just comes with focus — not sure we've had it the past few games. We just got to step up. At the end of the day, we've got to communicate, keep the ball in front of us, and without that we're gonna have nights like this, and we just gotta pick it up."




you've never has it. Funny you talking D! :roll:


Over the last six games, the Jazz are 24th in the league with a 116.7 defensive rating, according to Cleaning the Glass — just a tad bit lower than their season ranking of No. 3. It's no surprise the Jazz are just 2-4 in those games.




this is the first time anyone noticed it was D. Usually it's turnovers or missed 3's when they put up 120... :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/19/triple-team-jazz-arent/


I’m not trying to pick on Mitchell here — he was not the only bad Jazz defender. Look at the urgency Jordan Clarkson applies here to getting around this screen, guarding Bradley Beal, who had only scored 31 points at this point.




you should be


So, an underrated part of the Jazz’s early-season success was also their ability to get offensive rebounds: they were the second-best offensive-rebounding team in the league.




You couldn't really expect them to keep that up with a team of guards and wings around Rudy though.


The reason most teams don’t do this is that it can lead to fast-break opportunities on the other end after those missed shots. Like, here tonight: Royce O’Neale goes after this rebound, and as a result, never gets back in the play defensively. It’s two easy points for the Wizards.




it's why they stopped doing it years ago. They did have 4 guys back though. Someone needs to pick up the ball


3. Mike Conley is really important to the Jazz’s offense



more important to their D. Again they scored plenty to win the game


I think that was missed a little bit when the Jazz had success with Conley out of the lineup during the first hamstring injury this season — the Jazz went 6-0 during those games, so clearly the Jazz can succeed without him, right? But back then, Mitchell was rolling, Bogdanovic was playing great, Clarkson was on a weeks-long hot-streak, and everything was just very easy for the Jazz.




He was missed. They weren't as good without him

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/18/22339323/jazz-cant-stop-westbrook-beal-drop-one-in-dc


Ron Boone summed up the loss best:
Jordan Clarkson (2 for 11; 1 for 9 from 3; 7 total points) and Bojan Bogdanovic (2 for 12; 0 for 6 from 3; 6 total points) both played poorly offensively. If either of them would have had a normal game; if Mike Conley would have played and had a normal game; or if Rudy Gobert wouldn’t have missed 9 foul shots; the Jazz most likely would have won. The Jazz just need to get back on track.

Posted by Fesenko for President (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Fesenko%20for%20President) on Mar 19, 2021 | 1:03 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/18/22339323/jazz-cant-stop-westbrook-beal-drop-one-in-dc#537723188)


that is normal for Clarkson and Bojan lately. If they hadn't given up 131 points maybe?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455684/gobert-questionable-for-jazz-against-raptors/


Gobert’s absence would be a difficult hole for the Jazz to cover as the center has appeared in every game so far this season. The All-Star center has a defensive rating of 103.9 this season, while backup center Derrick Favors rating drops significantly to 110.7.




good thing they don't lose anything!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50129624/from-the-comments-the-jazz-are-in-a-slump-what-does-that-mean-for-the-season-as-a-whole


"If we have to rest Conley's hamstring I think we need to trade him, that also contributed to this loss. This should have been a game to have won without too much effort." — MisterD



:roll:


Without Conley, the Jazz didn't have an extra stabilizer and they paid dearly. Utah actually outscored Washington in the minutes Ingles was on the court (not by a lot, but still). So, yes, the game would have likely been much different if Conley were able to play. Utah knows that, though. The All-Star guard is extremely important to the team which is why the Jazz are opting to sit him out in the regular season to help make sure he doesn't have to sit out in the playoffs.




as usual offense wasn't their problem. Conley would have helped defensively for sure

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/19/22336367/nba-power-rankings-roundup-utah-jazz-espn-sports-illustrated-cbs-sports



“The momentum from the Jazz’s 22-2 run is long gone, as Utah has dropped four of the past six games. The Jazz have slipped significantly on the defensive end, allowing 115.9 points per 100 possessions during the six-game slump. Donovan Mitchell’s efficiency has also dipped drastically; he’s shooting only 36.5% from the floor in March.” — Tim MacMahon



where would they be without their best player!

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Quin Snyder on the @Utah Jazz: “I don’t think we’re a team that’s in panic mode in any way shape or form.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)



Ben Anderson: Nick Nurse on how it feels to be the top team in the NBA like the @Utah Jazz, and having teams gunning for you every game. “It’s not a burden, it’s a compliment. (https://*********.com/social/) The teams are coming and getting up for you every night, it’s really a compliment.”
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Josh Lewenberg: Nick Nurse confirms that OG Anunoby will play and start tonight (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter JLew1050 (https://twitter.com/JLew1050)




Aaron Rose: “The ship has got holes all over the places that we’re trying to patch up.” – Nick Nurse (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter AaronBenRose (https://twitter.com/AaronBenRose)





Aaron Rose: “The search starts again tonight.” – Nick Nurse on searching for consistency from the bench (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter AaronBenRose (https://twitter.com/AaronBenRose)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/03/18/nba-trade-deadline-missing-pieces-west-lakers/2/


Need: Perimeter defense




need a starting 4


Other options: Tony Snell, Otto Porter Jr.




OPJ!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-trades-and-deadline/2021/3/19/22340663/utah-jazz-trade-rumors-cleveland-cavaliers-larry-nance-jr-cavs-bojan-bogdanovic


As a whole Utah’s perimeter defense is a train wreck. While Royce O’Neale is doing his best, he’s not a big player. Even more wild is according to Cleaning the Glass, Utah’s defense gives up 4.1 points more when he’s on the floor rather than off of it. That, of course, can be because Royce is guarding an opposing team’s best players and he’s also out there with Bojan Bogdanovic and Donovan Mitchell who are not exactly playing up to their defensive potential.




put him at the wing where he belongs and see what he does


Larry Nance.




I called this months ago!


How would Utah get him? It would be the biggest push the chips to the middle of the table move Utah has made yet. More than Conley. Utah would not only have to include a 1st round pick they would have to part ways with Favors, Royce O’Neale, and Bogey while probably taking on Kevin Love’s horrible max contract that’s still active for two years. That’s if they were to attempt to work one on one with Cleveland.



Royce is too much. Don't want Love either. Him, Conley and Gobert are the heart and soul of the team. Bojan, Favors, Hughes, Clarkson and maybe Niang


But there’s another way. Bringing a third team in... the Houston Rockets (https://www.thedreamshake.com/). The Cleveland Cavaliers have a stellar future with Collin Sexton and Isaac Okoro. Utah could send a top 10 protected 1st rounder to Cleveland for 2026 and the 2nd rounder that comes from Golden State this year to Cleveland to help the Cavs acquire Victor Oladipo while the Rockets can move the contract and still get good pieces in Bojan and Taurean Prince to allow a quick rebuild for Houston. Utah leaves with Ben McLemore and Larry Nance Jr. If Cleveland needs additional players, Utah can then look to add young players like Dok, Oni, Hughes, siphon off other second rounders, or remove more protections on the 1st round pick. This is an all-in move.



keep Udoka

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455756/jazz-show-much-needed-toughness-in-win-over-raptors/


Mitchell had reason to be happy, he scored 22 of his 31 points in the second half on 6-7 shooting. The All-Star guard’s most impressive stretch came over the final minute 1:25 as he scored eight straight points to give the Jazz a 113-105 lead.




Yay he played good at one end for a half!


The guard has scored 30 or more points in five of his last nine games, including a season-high 42 point outing on Thursday, and is averaging 29 points per game during the stretch.




yet couldn't be much more terrible

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/455723/when-should-jazz-fans-panic/


Snyder said the team’s issues have more to do with a string of slow starts, rather than with the team panicking midway through the season.




more to do with d. They've started slow all year

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50129994/utah-jazz-look-a-bit-more-like-themselves-in-win-over-toronto-raptors


The Jazz will take it — and, honestly, they earned this one. Against most teams, Mitchell would have spent the last few minutes of the contest sitting on the bench watching some young teammates finish things off. In this one, well, the Jazz had some ridiculously hot 3-point shooting to contend with.




hasn't happened much lately

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/03/20/triple-team-mitchell-gets/


Third, I thought Mitchell’s steals tonight were worth noting. His perimeter defense has been poor recently, but it was better tonight. Watch him here stay really engaged on Fred VanVleet, enough to turn a simple dump-off pass into a Jazz possession.




recently? He didn't do much there. Kept his arms out. Bad pass


Quin Snyder made one of his biggest coaching moves of the season tonight in Tampa (where Toronto is playing all of their home games this season). That move was a non-move: rather than take Joe Ingles and Rudy Gobert out for their normal rest in the fourth quarter, both players played the entire fourth as the Jazz fought for a win.




COTM getting desperate. Too bad he doesn't coach like that all the time


But in recent games, the Jazz had been really struggling with those middle minutes in the fourth quarter. When opposing starters are focused, they can just attack Favors in the paint. Meanwhile, with Bojan Bogdanovic struggling, Mitchell sometimes has to use every possession in those middle minutes — not always ideal, especially with crunch time coming up.




I thought it was all Bradley's fault?


And even with playing the entire fourth quarter, Ingles and Gobert both only ended up playing 33 and 35 minutes, respectively. I’m absolutely fine with them getting that much playing time in a close game.




not ideal for Joe


Now, did it work? Eh. The Jazz actually had a 10-point lead with about eight minutes to go in this one, before the Raptors closed the margin in those middle minutes anyway. Watching the tape, it’s hard to see how Gobert and Ingles were at fault, but who knows: maybe a rested Bogdanovic or Favors could have done better. Gobert did play terrific defense in the game’s closing stretch, but he would have been in there anyway.




rested Bojan! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/19/22340437/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-win-close-game-over-toronto-raptors-nba-donovan-mitchell-chris-boucher


Mike Conley had a bit of a rough game as far as ball control is concerned. He committed six turnovers, four of them after having played just over eight minutes. There’s definitely a certain amount of turnovers that you can live with from Conley because his presence and distribution skills are so important to the Jazz. He has a calming quality on the offense and just makes things run a little more smoothly. That being said, six turnovers is too many.



even bigger is the D. 6 TO's isn't his usual


Multiple clock malfunctions and some scoring mishaps just make the game ugly. Game operations get a knock on this game.



non NBA city. Not surprising

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/19/22341401/utah-jazz-pull-out-tough-win-against-the-toronto-raptors-joe-ingles-donovan-mitchell


If the Jazz can find a way to get the same level of production from Mitchell from start to finish, they should be able to get back on track to what they were early in the season.




dream on :lol


Joe looked poor for stretches last year and many in the fan base were lamenting the team giving him an extension and actively encouraging trading him or dropping his minutes. He looked old and slow and his shot was broken.
I’m hopeful Bogie can turn it around in a similar fashion.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Mar 19, 2021 | 10:55 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/3/19/22341401/utah-jazz-pull-out-tough-win-against-the-toronto-raptors-joe-ingles-donovan-mitchell#537766960)


the last two years he declined. Bojan isn't the player Joe is no matter what he does

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/20/22333970/utah-jazz-evolution-of-jordan-clarkson-passing-game-quin-snyder-nba-warriors-boston-celtics


It happened with 4:30 on the clock in the second quarter. Running up the floor on a break, Clarkson had three other Jazz players ahead of him, all way more open than he was. Mitchell was in the corner to his left, ready to receive the pass, Bojan Bogdanovic was in the right corner aggressively gesturing toward O’Neale, who was trailing the play at the top of the arc and wide open.





He almost always takes bad shots and now that he's missing it's a problem? :facepalm


“For a guy that’s a scorer and is shooting the ball, he’s also an unselfish player and he wants to win and he’s a great teammate,” Snyder said. “I don’t worry about talking to him about those things, that somehow it’s going to confuse him, or send him a mixed message. He knows how I feel about him, and he wants to get better and he wants to win.”




not sure how you could watch Clarkson and call him unselfish! :lol


So don’t be surprised if Clarkson is dropping snazzy dimes, or making crisp passes out to the corners. It’s all part of the greater plan to develop Clarkson into a dynamic player who is more than just a scorer.




good luck with that! :cheers:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/03/19/rudy-gobert-jazz-disrespect/

not sure how that's disrespectful? They've done nothing in the franchise history