2021 Off-Season. Another short one

[Xiao Yao You]

Back to normal Hopefully. Summer league etc.

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert said that he needs to take some time “to clear my mind, because there’s a lot of things that bother me” about how the season ended (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)





Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert: “Obviously we had higher expectations than losing in the second round. Losing 4 in a row is something we didn’t do during the season. (https://*********.com/social/) … You try to ask yourself the right questions about what we can do so it stops happening.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)







Eric Walden: Georges Niang: “Obviously the season didn’t end the way any of us wanted to. It’s still fresh, less than 24 hours ago. (https://*********.com/social/) … Obviously the playoffs didn’t go the way we wanted them to.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)







Eric Walden: Georges: “To be honest, you wake up and you don’t know what happened. You’re — I don’t want to say in shock, but you’re constantly replaying moments in your head. ‘Should I have done this? Should I have done that?'” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

On Saturday afternoon, Conley addressed his pending free agency during the Jazz’s customary exit interviews the day after the season. “Obviously you know how I feel about our team and the city and the fans,” he said. “It’s been just a wonderful two years. Definitely an up and down two years but wonderful regardless of how it ended last night. “Free agency is free agency…it’s something that I have to sit back and consider with my family and when that time comes, make the decision that’s best for us, myself. (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/19/22541497/mike-conley-talks-pending-free-agency-as-utah-jazzs-season-ends) Like I said, obviously I’ve had a great time here, great, great experiences, coaches — Coach Quin and the players, Don and Rudy and everybody, so we’ll just have to see what happens.”

– via Ryan McDonald, Sarah Todd @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/19/22541497/mike-conley-talks-pending-free-agency-as-utah-jazzs-season-ends)




Conley would certainly command less than the approximately $34 million he made this season but could still be in line for a big pay day despite his age given that he was named an All-Star this season for the first time in his career. “Obviously I can’t speak, look into the future what exactly will happen,” he said. “It’s actually like my first time being a real free agent, so it’ll be interesting, (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/19/22541497/mike-conley-talks-pending-free-agency-as-utah-jazzs-season-ends) but I did love it here and we’ll see what happens.”

– via Ryan McDonald, Sarah Todd @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/19/22541497/mike-conley-talks-pending-free-agency-as-utah-jazzs-season-ends)






Eric Walden: Royce O’Neale on what the Jazz might need: “One of our downfalls, at times, was our defense. Having another main guy to help with that.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)






Ben Anderson: Joe Ingles on the @Utah Jazz offseason. “If you want to be the last team standing, you’ve got to find things to improve and get better. (https://*********.com/social/) We’ve got to figure out ways that we can get better.” #takenote | @KSLsports
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)






Ben Anderson: Mike Conley on Donovan Mitchell’s ceiling: “I really don’t know. He’s gotten so much better in two years. Like, is he going to start scoring 60 points a game?” (https://*********.com/social/) #takenote | @kslsports
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)




Royce knows he needs more help. Put him at his natural position for starters and quit asking him to do so much.

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Derrick Favors on what the @Utah Jazz could have done better against the Clippers. “We could have played a bit harder on the defensive end. (https://*********.com/social/) Been a little bit more committed one on one on the defensive end.” #TakeNote | @KSLSports
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Quin Snyder on Mike Conley: “Not only is he a great player, but he’s one of the best human beings that I’ve ever had an opportunity to be with on a daily basis.” (https://*********.com/social/) #TakeNote | @kslsports

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




Eric Walden: Quin, with more on the changes question: “I believe in these players. … Last night was an outlier from a shooting perspective (https://*********.com/social/) and you hope that for one game you can weather it.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



and when they aren't weathering it especially in an elimination game the coach needs to try something else

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey: “There’s no question there’s collective disappointment and hurt, but there’s also a lot of gratitude. … We err toward continuity. (https://*********.com/social/) That served us really well this season.”

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





Eric Walden: Dennis, on next steps: “Good, honest, sober evaluations — which we’ll keep internal. … We’ll try to be brutally honest where we fell short. (https://*********.com/social/) Where we had opportunities, where we didn’t, and if we didn’t, why we didn’t. One of our strengths is we’re honest with ourselves.”

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




:roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey, on Donovan Mitchell’s postseason: “His performance was heroic. (https://*********.com/social/) The fact that he played his best when his best was needed even though he was suboptimal [healthwise] was remarkable.”

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





Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey: “We really appreciate Mike Conley attempting to play last night. (https://*********.com/social/) There were some struggles. We never put any pressure on a guy to play.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)






Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey, on potential changes the Jazz could make: “I don’t think you over-index and base every decision on the Clippers going small and with wing athleticism, but it’s a window into playoff basketball.” (https://*********.com/social/)

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






Eric Walden: Justin Zanik, on potential changes: “Obviously, there are things we need to evaluate — the translation of matchups from a long regular season to a short series. … Now, it’s going to be a little more nuanced because we’re closer.” (https://*********.com/social/)

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




you're closer? 2nd round loss again. Not sure what makes you closer. Same coach who has gotten worse not better. A tax paying team with many bad contracts and little flexibility and still huge roster issues. Your 2nd best player is a free agent.

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey, on re-signing Mike Conley, and the associated cost: “I’m limited in what I can say … but who he is, what he stands for, the speed, skill, intelligence … it’s an honor to have him as part of the program. (https://*********.com/social/) … [But] he’s got to go vet his market.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




Tony Jones: Dennis Lindsey: Rudy Gobert is one of the best players in the league and we’re glad to have him on our side (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)






Sarah Todd: Dennis Lindsey comments on Rudy Gobert’s fall in Game 6. Said there was a pretty big contusion but that Rudy wouldn’t be told he couldn’t play. (https://*********.com/social/) All testing and imaging went well and no further injury was there.

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







Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey: “There’s no question there’s collective disappointment and hurt, but there’s also a lot of gratitude. … We err toward continuity. (https://*********.com/social/) That served us really well this season.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)







Eric Walden: Dennis, on next steps: “Good, honest, sober evaluations — which we’ll keep internal. … We’ll try to be brutally honest where we fell short. (https://*********.com/social/) Where we had opportunities, where we didn’t, and if we didn’t, why we didn’t. One of our strengths is we’re honest with ourselves.”

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

[Xiao Yao You]

Sarah Todd: Dennis Lindsey on whether injuries are related to the condensed season: “Was there, in my opinion, a magic number out there that was better than 72 inside of this condensed period? I think there was, (https://*********.com/social/) but also, there’s finances involved…that was all collectively bargained.”

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




Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey, on the concern over NBA players in the Olympics, and having another shortened offseason: “There’s not a general manager or a coach in the league who can’t say he’s holding his breath.” (https://*********.com/social/)

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






Andy Larsen: Dennis Lindsey says the Jazz were the “most compliant COVID team in the league” in terms of testing and vaccinations (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)






Eric Walden: Dennis Lindsey, on the impact of new owner Ryan Smith: “It’s only natural that his preferences and inclinations will move us in new directions.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)



the new owner is the big hope. Maybe a champion like Wade can influence his decisions

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462021/little-clarity-in-future-as-jazz-enter-offseason/


The issue for the Jazz will be how to maintain their offensive identity as a three-point shooting team while finding more length and athleticism on the perimeter. Zanik summed up the difficultly of finding those players at the end of their conversation.



how about you try to get into the paint first?


“Two-way players are very very important to NBA clubs. That’s why they come at really high premiums.”



a higher premium than Clarkson, Favors, Bojan...?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462006/disappointment-future-hope-main-focus-of-jazz-locker-room-cleanout/



Joe Ingles on his summer and next season:

"No doubt in my mind that I'll come back better. It's what I've done every year since I've been over here."#takenote (https://twitter.com/hashtag/takenote?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) | @KSLSports (https://twitter.com/kslsports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)
— Ben Anderson (@BensHoops) June 19, 2021 (https://twitter.com/BensHoops/status/1406319897924169732?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)



actually it's not. The two seasons before this you got worse. I'd expect the same next year since you won't be in SLC again


If Conley does leave the Jazz this summer, Ingles would likely become the default starting point guard, a role he has excelled in for the team during the regular season. Despite the shortened summer, Ingles said he expects to come back better.



be a mistake. He needs to have a smaller role not a bigger one


“At times our defense, it’s a team effort,” O’Neale said of the Jazz struggles. “I think having another guy to help us all out besides myself, Joe, Mike, Don, Rudy, probably another wing guy.”



I know Mitchell is your BFF but :lol


“We could have been a little bit more committed in guard and one on one on the defensive end,” Favors said. “On the offensive end, we could have been a little bit more aggressive, executing and doing the little things a little bit better.”



yep. Maybe Favors should be the next coach?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50189696/jazz-live-blog-utah-jazz-hold-end-of-season-media-availability


On the adjustments made in Game 6: "There were a lot of things that we tried to do at timeouts throughout the course of the game — whether it be playing zone, changing matchups, changing rotations. In the end, that's something that we'll study again and look at because the reality is we weren't able to get it done."



please! :facepalm


"Terance Mann came out there and then had 39. I mean, you can't put that blame on anybody," he said. "The game plan was to try to make other guys beat us and not let Paul George beat us at all. You've got to give those guys credit, they hit shots. We did the best we could on PG and Reggie Jackson and Marcus Morris and other guys, they just came out and made plays."



yep


Yes, if he had the offensive skillset of a Nikola Jokic, teams probably wouldn't go to those lineups, but, to him, if the Jazz didn't need him to help in the paint on nearly every drive, he probably would be more effective on the defensive end against teams that went small, too.



word


"Mike and Donovan were the two best players on our team, probably," Bogdanovic said. "... It's tough to talk right now what we need for next season or who we need to sign. I hope we're going to keep our core team and try and get another shot next year."



how about the guy always trying to cover your sorry ass? :facepalm


For his part, Bogdanovic said that he needed to get better at attacking the boards and putting more of an emphasis on defense over offense. He also wants to be a better ball handler next year to cut down on some of the turnovers he was prone to have.



good luck

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/19/22541566/utah-jazz-exit-interviews-notable-quotes-as-jazz-face-the-2021-offseason


“If I’m able to get my named called or I get called up at one point to be a part of that team then I’ll definitely be ready to accept.”



he sure certainly be considered

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Joe Ingles on Mike Conley’s free agency: “My daughter will be upset if Myles (Conley’s son) isn’t in her class” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)




Eric Walden: Georges Niang, on his free agency: “My heart is in Utah, they helped me be a man. I’ll be a free agent for the first time, so we’ll see what happens.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

What might Nets do in free agency with all those decisions? There has been some speculation that if the Celtics buy out Al Horford, he could find a home in Brooklyn (https://www.netsdaily.com/2021/6/20/22542066/short-form-on-whats-next-for-brooklyn-expect-a-lot-of-decisions).

– via Net Income @ NetsDaily (https://www.netsdaily.com/2021/6/20/22542066/short-form-on-whats-next-for-brooklyn-expect-a-lot-of-decisions)



be a good fit for Jazz

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/19/22532700/whats-to-blame-for-the-utah-jazz-season-coming-to-an-end-nba-playoffs-analysis-season-end


I have great respect for Georges Niang and Miye Oni and the growth that we’ve seen from them over the course of this season, but they weren’t ready to contribute in meaningful ways against the Clippers.



and yet COTY kept putting them out there


Additionally, without a skilled small-ball five or another strong wing defender, the Jazz were forced into tough situations that weren’t just hard to overcome, but practically impossible. Derrick Favors wasn’t able to keep up with the rotations or the penetration of the Clippers, so when the Jazz go with Gobert they back themselves into a bit of a wall. By team design the Jazz have to rely on Gobert for so much, and he is legitimately a terrific defender, but he can’t do everything.



Ersan, Morgan, Brantley and Forrest were available


Coaching

one of the biggest problems and he'll probably get an extension


The Jazz need to find a way to stay healthy and fresh for the postseason, they need to fill in the gaps on the roster where they are lacking, they need to be able to make adjustments when things get tough and the players have to be able to raise their level and execute with more precision when the lights are brightest.



New front office for starters. They hire a new coach and improve the roster :cheers:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462061/utah-jazz-evp-dennis-lindsey-finishes-runner-up-for-nba-executive-of-the-year-award/


Utah Jazz EVP Dennis Lindsey Finishes Runner-Up For NBA Executive Of The Year Award

:roll:


Signed Mitchell to super max, payed Clarkson and Favors :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/06/20/nba-mock-draft-knicks-trade/25/


30. Utah Jazz – Max Abmas, G, Oral Roberts The Utah Jazz saw their season come to a disappointing in the postseason, and it would be wise for this team to make some improvements during the offseason. At the draft, they could select Max Abmas who is coming off a sophomore season at Oral Roberts in which he averaged 24 points on 48 percent shooting from the field and 43 percent shooting from 3-point range.



can he defend? unless they think Forrest will be able to develop a shot a pg or combo guard should be their pick. After that probably anything but a center

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/06/19/jazz-players-traded-released/


Given his lack of playing time, Oni being replaced by a draft prospect sure is a possibility this offseason.



he was their 10 man and has a non guarantee I believe. Could be valuable for a trade but I'd guess he was back. Needs to develop a more consistent shot


Given that Ilyasova was buried down the depth chart anyway, the Jazz would be best suited to find another forward depth option this offseason.



He was one of their best players. Maybe with a full training camp the coach would realize it? I'd look to bring him back


Again, if the Jazz want to free up money on the books, Favors is perhaps the easiest option by trading him elsewhere.



doubt it would be easy. I'd be looking to move him, Clarkson and Hughes. Move Bojan to Clarkson's role. Sign Conley and maybe Niang(I'd guess he's gone). Would love to have Brantley and Morgan back but they are probably better off elsewhere. Forrest will probably be back but needs to develop a shot. Could be in the rotation if he did. Matt Thomas could be back or valuable with a non guaranteed deal. Should have a summer league to help with some of those decisions anyway this year. Hope Mitchell starts living up to the hype. Get a starting 4 somehow. Hope Lindsey goes back to Houston like rumored and Ainge takes over and hires a new coach.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://hoopshabit.com/2021/06/19/nba-playoff-obituary-utah-jazz/


Losing four games in a row to a team without their best player is disheartening. Seeing the same issues arise around Rudy Gobert in the playoffs in the deciding game is the kind of thing that can change a franchise.



only two without Kawai. 5 without Conley and really 6 the way he played in game 6


This is becoming a common trend of teams in the league. Teams put together fantastic regular season only to find themselves dismissed early in the postseason. Fans will likely be desperate for changes but figuring out what to fix with the Jazz is not that easy.



Not that tough. Lindsey, Snyder, Clarkson, Favors and Hughes for starters. Depending on what the roster looks like after they are gone and the draft you go from there. Need a starting 4. Need more D while not sacrificing too much spacing.


Mike Conley is one of only two regular rotation players who is a pending free agent. In a relatively shallow free agent pool, he is likely to have a strong market and is essential for the Jazz to bring back. Beyond that, it may finally be time to listen to listen to trade calls for Rudy Gobert as he again looked to get played off the court. Finally, if questions swirl around other coaches who are great in the regular season but fail to adjust in the postseason, how far should those same questions be from Quin Snyder?



doubt Rudy would be easy to move and you might as well tank if you move him. Never won without him. Hard to imagine it really. The D would be awful instantly and they would just be chucking 3's which they too often were as is

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/06/19/vernon-maxwell-trolls-jazz-twitter/

get a life old man :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

“What’s not lost on us is the historic season that we had,” Utah executive Dennis Lindsey said. “We have to evaluate the playoffs under the lens that we wore down physically. (https://theathletic.com/2662131/2021/06/21/from-a-shocking-jazz-playoff-loss-to-roster-uncertainty-where-does-utah-go-from-here/?source=rss) We will have good, honest, sober assessments that we will keep internal. We will try to be internally and just brutally honest with ourselves on where we might have fallen short. We will do a comprehensive review from A to Z. I think one of our strengths is that we’re honest with ourselves. We will take a collective deep breath and we’ll start working on draft prep and then free agency.”

– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2662131/2021/06/21/from-a-shocking-jazz-playoff-loss-to-roster-uncertainty-where-does-utah-go-from-here/?source=rss)




tells me they will do little and blame all their problems on injuries and bring the band back :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Jazz announce SLC Summer League. Games on August 3, 4, and 6. Jazz will have 2 separate teams in the competition, and the Grizzlies and Spurs will have one each. (https://*********.com/social/) Round robin format… we’ll see Jazz vs. Jazz! Games at Vivint Arena. 3-day passes are $18.
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)

[Xiao Yao You]

Furkan Korkmaz and Ersan Ilyasova will join their national team in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/olympic-games/1220885/furkan-korkmaz-ersan-ilyasova-to-join-turkey-in-olympic-qualifiers/) of Victoria, Canada (29/6 to 4/7) where the “12 Giant Men” will compete for the ticket that will lead to Tokyo.
– via EuroHoops.net (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/olympic-games/1220885/furkan-korkmaz-ersan-ilyasova-to-join-turkey-in-olympic-qualifiers/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462084/utah-jazz-to-host-salt-lake-city-summer-league-beginning-in-august/

2 Jazz teams!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50190581/how-mike-conleys-free-agency-will-shape-the-jazzs-offseason


The Jazz did a lot of work last offseason: They gave monster extensions to both Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell, re-signed Jordan Clarkson and brought back Derrick Favors on a multi-year deal. But because of all those deals, the Jazz have little to no flexibility, barring some major core changes.



what a mess.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50190596/the-slc-summer-league-is-coming-back-heres-what-you-need-to-know


For the Jazz, Udoka Azubuike, Elijah Hughes, Trent Forrest, Jarrell Brantley will likely see action — along with any of the team's draft picks. The Jazz currently have No. 30th pick in the 2021 NBA draft.



Brantley and Forrest are free agents. Oni, Morgan and Thomas?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/6/21/22543979/utah-jazz-announce-2021-salt-lake-city-summer-league


A roster has not been announced yet but we’ll definitely see Udoka Azubuike and Elijah Hughes suit up for the Jazz. It’s also very likely we see Trent Forrest play. It’s unclear if we’ll see Miye Oni, Juwan Morgan or Jarrell Brantley considering they’ll be entering their third seasons next year, but it could only help to see them on the floor again.



Hopefully Hughes guaranteed deal will be moved


One other contract I’m staring at is favors…..
As much as he is a jazz man, im starting to wonder if his contract is worth it…… especially since we drafted a center in the first round……

Dok was a wasted pick if the jazz intend to keep favors, he’s gonna get literally no playing time…. barring injuries to both rudy and favors….
At which point the jazz season would be over anyways

Posted by ThomasSmithjaz1 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThomasSmithjaz1) on Jun 21, 2021 | 5:11 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/6/21/22543979/utah-jazz-announce-2021-salt-lake-city-summer-league#541623759)



Dok isn't a wasted pick yet. Let's see what he can do first. You play vets and develop young guys ideally. When young guys look ready you do something. Favors needs to go but not because of Dok. 17 guys. 9 played. Clarkson needs to go too


Oni can take a hike, he should be on the GLeague team.
I like Brantley a lot I wished he got a better look to get more playing time. Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Jun 21, 2021 | 6:20 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/6/21/22543979/utah-jazz-announce-2021-salt-lake-city-summer-league#541626059)



Oni has potential. Not his fault that the coach is smarter than all of us


Only Forrest got some run when Mike and Donny were out. Brantley had one game with 20 minutes and looked great and then nothing afterwards. One of the few disappointments in a successful regular season. We still don’t know if any of these guys are really any good. Really need 20 minutes a game for 3 or 4 games to get any sort of rhythm.

Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Jun 21, 2021 | 9:48 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/6/21/22543979/utah-jazz-announce-2021-salt-lake-city-summer-league#541635205)



and Oni dropped out with there were more than 1 injury! Made no sense.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/06/22/utah-jazz-donovan-mitchell-offseason/


Fortunately — at least for the Utah Jazz — Eric Walden of The Salt Lake Tribune confirmed on Monday (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/21/utah-jazz-guard-donovan/) that the New York native will instead remain at home to ensure his ankle fully heals without further setbacks.



not necessarily fortunate. Can learn a lot playing for other coaches with other great players

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/06/21/rudy-gobert-downfall-jazz-defense/

needed help. Can't guard everyone

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/06/21/utah-jazz-rebuild-offseason/

Conley makes them a lot better defensively. Get rid of Clarkson and Favors and move Bojan to the bench and get more defense while not giving up too much spacing wise

[Xiao Yao You]

D’Tigers coach, Mike Brown, has named 12 NBA players in his 49-man provisional list for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, which begins next month. The men’s basketball squad has opened camp in California. Headlining the list of NBA players is Denver Nuggets’ point guard Monte Morris, (https://punchng.com/dtigers-coach-names-morris-anunoby-10-other-nba-stars-for-olympics/) who recently declared his intention to represent Nigeria.

– via Punch Newspapers (https://punchng.com/dtigers-coach-names-morris-anunoby-10-other-nba-stars-for-olympics/)





Also included in the list are Miye Oni (Utah Jazz), OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors), (https://punchng.com/dtigers-coach-names-morris-anunoby-10-other-nba-stars-for-olympics/) KZ Okpala (Miami Heat), Precious Achiuwa (Miami Heat), Udoka Azubuike (Utah Jazz), Jahlil Okafor (Detroit Pistons). Others are Josh Okogie (Minnesota Timberwolves), Gabe Vincent (Miami Heat), Al-Farouq Aminu (Chicago Bulls), Jordan Nwora (Milwaukee Bucks) and Chimezie Metu (Sacramento Kings).
– via Punch Newspapers (https://punchng.com/dtigers-coach-names-morris-anunoby-10-other-nba-stars-for-olympics/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50191136/patrick-kinahan-great-regular-season-for-the-jazz-marred-by-bitter-playoff-disappointment


For all the disappointment, Mitchell's performances on a bum ankle (https://www.ksl.com/article/50189576/for-donovan-mitchell-the-real-pain-now-begins) were nothing short of sensational. His strong will to win was also manifest in his postgame comments.



He always sounds good post game. I need to pass more. We need to defend more. Samw old Mitchell ISO and no D game after game


For Jazz fans and management, this is beautiful music. The team's most dependable player, and the face of the franchise, will hold himself along with teammates and management accountable.



Wouldn't the most dependable player be the one that doesn't miss games and has carried the team the past 6 plus years?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462204/utah-jazz-get-help-in-nba-draft-lottery/


The outcome of the draft lottery will be helpful for the Jazz who saw the top two picks in each of the last three drafts made by Western Conference teams. Though the Rockets still own a top-two pick, the West won’t be replenished with talent among the lower-tier teams.



really? We're worried about the perennial tankers now too?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462182/utah-jazz-summer-calendar-dates/


The Tokyo Olympics basketball tournament begins on July 24 and will feature at least two Jazz players in Ingles and Gobert. The games could features as many as four Jazz players this summer depending on whether Bogdanovic and Ilyasova can get their teams to qualify in the FIBA tournament.



they have to make their teams. Oni and Udoka might be there too

[Xiao Yao You]

The Tokyo Olympics basketball tournament begins on July 24 and will feature at least two Jazz players in Ingles and Gobert. The games could features as many as four Jazz players this summer depending on whether Bogdanovic and Ilyasova can get their teams to qualify in the FIBA tournament.



what's important is that they get better somehow. The draft might do that eventually. Not immediately


Georges Niang, Juwan Morgan, Ersan Ilyasova, Jarrell Brantley, and Trent Forrest will also be free agents this summer.



I'd look to bring all of them back if it was me

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462165/conley-mitchell-injuries-already-part-of-great-jazz-what-ifs/


The Jazz have a relatively short, but painful what-if list that has radically changed the history of the franchise.



:roll:


Though Wilkins never won a title in Atlanta, he was a nine-time All-Star, a seven-time member of the All-NBA team, and would have helped make the Jazz a superpower in the 80s alongside Karl Malone and John Stockton.



wasn't as good as Dantley and they wouldn't be in Utah


While Mitchell, Conley, and Rudy Gobert would have fit nicely in that grouping, late-season injuries have robbed them of a chance to do so. As the team’s championship drought continues, Mitchell’s ankle and Conley’s hamstring have earned their spots on the list of great Jazz what-ifs.



Would have been nice to have had Conley but a different coach, a PF, some defenders all would have been nice as well

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/22/22543568/utah-jazz-never-got-chance-to-give-it-their-best-shot-in-the-playoffs


What was made clear through the Clippers series is that having depth and options is paramount in the postseason. When Kawhi Leonard went out with a knee injury (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/16/22536598/kawhi-leonard-injury-update-leonard-reportedly-expected-to-miss-game-5-utah-jazz-la-clippers-nba), the Clippers had another player ready to step in. When the Clippers wanted to have more dynamic playmakers on the floor, they had players that could step in. If they wanted to play big they could, and if they wanted to punish the Jazz with small ball they could.



they did have those options

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/6/23/22547169/utah-jazz-mock-drafts-lottery-first-look


So who does the NBA media world think Utah will take with their pick? Well, in looking at nine mock drafts (all the major ones I could find that have been released since the lottery results), there’s not much consensus. But there is one theme that can be found: the Jazz are gunning for defense on the perimeter.



Need a pg unless they think Forrest will be able to shoot. One with size ideally to play next to Mitchell or Conley eventually


The one thing not present in mock drafts is the idea of the Jazz taking another center. But even if Utah wanted to pick a center, No. 30 is a bad place to as there aren’t many centers around that part of the draft. Instead, it’s heavy with wings and a couple of point guards, and that should play to the team’s advantage come draft day.



Center is the last position they need

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/06/21/rudy-gobert-downfall-jazz-defense/


DPOY Rudy Gobert was the downfall of the Jazz’s defense once again

Bullshit. You got to look at the guys that don't defend at all first

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50192025/olympics-give-jazz-players-something-to-focus-on-following-seasons-sudden-end


Lindsey has a reason for fear: Former Jazz guard Dante Exum tore his ACL while playing for Australia in the summer of 2015 following his first season in Utah. He had played all 82 games, even winning the starting point guard spot in the back half of the year during his rookie campaign. He hasn't played a full season since.



Maybe the Wizards fave player too:facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/2021/04/05/champions-baylor-won-time-gear/


Lillard was not impressed with the graphic design effort from one fan who evidently wanted to see him in a Utah Jazz (https://fansided.com/nba/nba-teams/utah-jazz/) jersey alongside Donovan Mitchell (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/m/mitchdo01.html).



Doesn't make much sense unless it's instead of Michell

[Xiao Yao You]

SI: Were you surprised at all during the game that they were not making any significant adjustment to take those looks away? Terance Mann: I think they just couldn’t help it because that’s how they’ve been playing all year. You know, that’s them. And that’s what got them in first place. But they just never ran into a team that has someone confident enough to just say, you know what, we’re gonna trust that you’re gonna make these shots, and we’re just gonna keep giving you the ball (https://www.si.com/nba/2021/06/24/terance-mann-clippers-breakout-run-nba-playoffs).

– via Michael Pina @ Sports Illustrated (https://www.si.com/nba/2021/06/24/terance-mann-clippers-breakout-run-nba-playoffs)




COTY! :cry:

[Xiao Yao You]

Donovan Mitchell was frustrated, and he was sad. “Kind of sick,” the Utah Jazz superstar remembers feeling. “Helpless is a good word.” This wasn’t after last Friday’s season-ending loss to the L.A. Clippers; it was back in September, when news broke that there would be no justice for Breonna Taylor. (https://www.gq.com/story/nba-activism) Of the three white police officers involved in her death in Louisville, where Mitchell went to college, only one had been charged with a crime — and that was for firing into a neighbor’s apartment, not Taylor’s. “The bullets that missed are what he was held accountable for — that, for me, was really shocking,” Mitchell says.
– via Matt Sullivan, Condé Nast @ GQ.com (https://www.gq.com/story/nba-activism)




“I think we all understood, in the bubble, that what we’re doing is not going to have an immediate effect now,” Mitchell tells me. (https://www.gq.com/story/nba-activism) But when the 24-year-old left Disney World, he kept insisting to anyone who would pay attention — especially on his Trump-eyerolling, vote-pushing, #SayHerName-ing Twitter account — that the persistence of racist killer cops was systemic, and that NBA players and owners could chip away at the system by demanding government action.
– via Matt Sullivan, Condé Nast @ GQ.com (https://www.gq.com/story/nba-activism)







“Just to be in a room — or a virtual room — of thinkers,” Mitchell recalls of the coalition’s first meeting in March, “that’s what I was excited about.” (https://www.gq.com/story/nba-activism) They talked about local legislatures foisting voter-suppression upon 18 NBA cities, and they cleared the air. “We had worn the shirts, we were still pushing it like we did in the bubble…. We all had our ideas, but we came with a plan: Not necessarily everybody sees that until it comes into—” Mitchell snapped his fingers, as if ready to break out into Schoolhouse Rock on the team bus “—a bill!”
– via Matt Sullivan, Condé Nast @ GQ.com (https://www.gq.com/story/nba-activism)

[Xiao Yao You]

According to his agent, Jelani Floyd of Beyond Athlete Management, Tyler Etienne has already worked out for the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks and Boston Celtics and has workouts scheduled with the Golden State Warriors (June 30), Brooklyn Nets (July 2) and the Phoenix Suns (July 6). (https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/wichita-state/article252098983.html) He is also receiving interest from the Charlotte Hornets, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz, Miami Heat and Toronto Raptors.
– via The Wichita Eagle (https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/wichita-state/article252098983.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

Alder Almo: West Virginia guard Miles McBride has completed a workout with the Knicks & Celtics and has interviewed with the Denver, Jazz, Cavs, Raptors, Grizzlies, and few other teams (http://twitter.com/alderalmo/status/1408459882152484866).
– via Twitter (http://twitter.com/alderalmo/status/1408459882152484866)

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: The Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz are hosting group pre-draft workouts in Minneapolis July 8-11, sources tell ESPN. The goal is having 48 players participate over a four day period. The workouts will be open to all 30 teams (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462371/stars-will-return-to-utah-for-2021-season/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462358/jazz-need-better-luck-more-than-better-roster/


Jazz Need Better Luck More Than Better Roster

you make you r own luck. Clarkson and Favors don't cut it


As the four teams who have advanced to the conference finals have proved, rosters need long, rangy athletes to erase offensive spacing, something the Jazz failed to do against the Clippers. Outside of Gobert and Donovan Mitchell, the Jazz lack elite length and athleticism at most positions.



Brantley, Favors, Oni...


While Gobert certainly impacted Conley’s plus-minus stats, his effectiveness dropped significantly when the All-Star guard was absent during the playoffs.



yeah because Clarkson and Mitchell don't pass the ball or defend!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/25/22548274/utah-jazz-insiders-newsletter-rewatching-final-game-los-angeles-clippers


I wanted to see if anything would stand out more than it did when I watched the game live or rewatched portions the day after. Was there something in particular that could be blamed for the Game 6 collapse? Was there something more the Jazz could have done?



seriously? When you don't try anything obviously you could have done more


That’s not a knock against Leonard. He truly is one of the league’s best talents. But the Jazz had found a formula that worked with him in the lineup. To the surprise of many, Bojan Bogdanovic was incredibly successful when defending Leonard on possessions when Leonard wasn’t being guarded by Royce O’Neale, who was also very effective.



for a couple games and than he wasn't


On the perimeter, Mann is a lot faster and more unpredictable than Leonard and it was nearly impossible for the injured Mitchell and Conley to keep up with the breakneck speed of Mann, who scored from every position on the floor.



like Mitchell even tries on D :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/whats-next-for-the-jazz/


So draft, trade, or sign a bunch of two-way wings, right? Right. Unfortunately that’s the most sought after player archetype. General Manager Justin Zanik said, “Two-way players are very very important to NBA clubs. That’s why they come at really high premiums.”



Why not get a PF at least?


It would not be surprising to learn the front office prefers to run it back. Dennis Lindsey, the Jazz’s Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, said as much.



It would be a surprise if they didn't. It's the Jazz after all. The new owner is the wild card hopefully


Lastly, Mitchell’s voice also holds a lot of weight. Or if he’s not vocal, his contentment certainly does. His extension hasn’t even started, but this is the NBA, and the whole organization should already be focused on building around Donovan and working toward that third contract. It’s unclear how much (if at all) Donovan is involved with personnel decisions, but he is in his prime and the iron is hot. The team is ready to compete now. If ownership or the front office decides a slight step backward is needed for ultimate championship contention, Mitchell’s feelings should be heavily considered.



He's feelings of forcing his way back on to the court already hurt them


They can address the perimeter defense issue on the margins, but it will take some luck. The Suns got Torrey Craig for cash considerations. The Grizzlies drafted Desmond Bane with the 30th pick. The Clippers got Nicolas Batum on the minimum. They also found key contributors in Terrance Mann, a second-round pick, and Reggie Jackson, a buyout signing last season who re-upped with L.A. at the minimum.



but that would mean a front office doing their jobs and COTY playing them


The Jazz have been less successful finding such gems this season. Ersan Ilyasova and Matt Thomas did not help their perimeter defense or contribute in the playoffs. We’ve yet to see Udoka Azubuike play much, but many criticize passing on Bane or other wings like Jaden McDaniels who were available with the pick. Utah did not use their bi-annual exception in either of the past two offseasons.



Ersan should have played. Bane and McDaniels wouldn't have played. The bi annual probably wouldn't have mattered either. Another guy to sit and watch


At the last trade deadline it felt like the team was complete. The top eight rotation players were rock solid. Now that is a little less certain. With the run-it-back approach, Mitchell, Gobert, and Conley are the core. O’Neale has such a unique skillset on the team that he feels essential too. That leaves Bogdanovic, Ingles, Derrick Favors, and Jordan Clarkson. All are immensely popular and played important roles during the regular season. It would be painful to trade any of them. But if the Jazz feel the need for a bigger change, it probably means moving one of these players.



It never felt solid outside Conley, Gobert and O'Neale. Clarkson and Favors need to go if possible


Favors is probably not going to get you a 3-and-D player. There’s hope that he comes back next season healthy and rejuvenated.



a year older why would anyone hope that?


Clarkson is young and coming off a career year. He probably brings back the most value. His scoring off the bench won Utah games this season, and he’s a beloved teammate. Quin Snyder allowed him to freelance, but did his shot creation sometimes take the Jazz too far out of their offense? Would a defensive-oriented player serve the team’s needs better? That’s something the Jazz will have to consider as Clarkson’s trade value, at 29 and coming off an 18-ppg season, is the highest of this bunch.



anyone but Clarkson!


If Conley does choose to leave, the Jazz can hope for a sign-and-trade to recoup value. They hoped for this when Gordon Hayward left, but it’s easier said than done. If Conley doesn’t sign in Utah, he’s likely to join a contender. Those contenders would either need to sign him at below market value with the mid-level exception, in which case a sign-and-trade won’t make sense. Or, they’ll need to do a sign-and-trade, but the returning assets would be of less interest to the Jazz, who also want to contend.



you can get a trade exception anyway


Which leads us to the scenario where Conley leaves and the Jazz don’t do a sign-and-trade. At that point they’d have access to a larger mid-level exception, as well as the bi-annual. They wouldn’t be facing as big of a tax bill, so using all of their exceptions becomes more palatable. But they’d at least need a back up point guard in addition to the perimeter defense upgrades we’ve been talking about.



they'd need a starting pg. Mitchell isn't it. Why doesn't anyone talk about the PF they don't have or don't play? If you had a 4/small ball 5 you would solve a lot of the problems. O'Neale can concentrate on the wing instead of rebounding


If such a voice prevails, that could mean breaking up the core in various degrees of severity: trading more than one rotation player from the Ingles/Clarkson/Bogdanovic/Favors group; signing-and-trading Conley; or even trading Gobert. The idea would be to give Donovan the ball as much as he wants, and then surround him with versatile players that can shoot and defend. The Rockets tried this with James Harden, and may have succeeded if they didn’t coincide with the Warriors’ prime. We can talk about whether this approach is ideal, but the Jazz don’t have the assets to bring back more talented players — especially if your outgoing players are a traditional defensive center or a 33-year old small point guard. At best they can hope for a lateral talent move, but even that is iffy given the circumstances.



Mitchell isn't Harden

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/what-we-really-just-saw-as-jazz-collapsed-versus-clippers/


The guard injuries took a toll on the defensive end as well, which we’ll get to shortly. With Conley sidelined and Mitchell unable to move laterally, Clipper guard Reggie Jackson had no problem getting into the paint and triggering desperate rotations and even new schemes by the Jazz. Other times, Mitchell would guard off ball and close out to a shooter, but then didn’t have the ability to change directions and close out a second time when the Clippers rotated the ball.



quit acting like Mitchell would have played defense if he wasn't hurt!


In fact, for much of this series, Gobert was Utah’s best and only chance of really slowing the Clippers down at all, even when they were small and when they abandoned pick-and-roll play altogether to force the 3-time Defensive Player of the Year to guard in space.



as he has been for more than 6 years. Lottery team without him


Through five games, Gobert was actually Utah’s best isolation defender in the series, per tracking stats shared by JazzFilmRoom’s Ben Dowsett (https://twitter.com/Ben_Dowsett/status/1405548778585608193?s=20). Gobert wasn’t the reason man defense wasn’t working; everybody else was. George and Jackson had no problem getting right around the first defender, only now there was no Gobert in the paint to offer last-line defensive help.



big surprise


Snyder said that he tried variations on the scheme once the Clippers started hitting. Instead of simply letting Mann and others shoot, they started having Gobert stunt or fake the closeout, or they’d rotate down from the top. For a while they even went into zone defense. But the failure on those plays happens way before the ball ever even gets to the shooter’s hands: the Jazz just simply have to be better at guarding the ball.



Snyder didn't do shit!


The Jazz have stars atop their depth chart, and impressive “starter depth,” with seven or eight guys who would probably start on at least some NBA teams. But if there’s something they could learn from this loss, it’s that there’s value in shoring up those fringe rotation and deep bench pieces in case you ever need those individuals to step up and play a bigger role.



or at least try playing those guys when others aren't getting it done


For what it’s worth, the Jazz tried: both in last fall’s free agency and in the more recent buyout market, the Jazz did put in calls to try to improve the end of their rotation. Reports indicate they even made a play at Batum. The Shaq Harrison signing didn’t pan out, partially because the Jazz tried to repurpose him as a third-unit point guard when really he’s more of a defensive pest with some spot-shooting and slashing skills on offense. The Ersan Ilyasova pickup didn’t yield what some people had hoped. Acquiring Matt Thomas in a deadline trade was more of a developmental play, adding a player with an NBA skill set that they might be able to develop in the medium term a la Ingles or O’Neale. But those weren’t the only swings the Jazz took.



again they never tried Shaq. Who knows what he could he brought. Ersan was great. That one is on Snyder

[Xiao Yao You]

Adam Zagoria: Former @GamecockMBB G @AJ Lawson will work out for The Utah Jazz July 2 (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter AdamZagoria (https://twitter.com/AdamZagoria)

[Xiao Yao You]

Adam Zagoria: In addition to the Nets and Knicks next month, @Sandro Mamukelashvili has worked out for the Pistons, the Hornets, the Thunder and the Jazz. (https://*********.com/social/) He has eight more workouts scheduled in July. “I’m pretty busy, I’ll be all around the place,” he said.
– via Twitter AdamZagoria (https://twitter.com/AdamZagoria)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sports.yahoo.com/ranking-top-5-most-impactful-143355568.html

[Xiao Yao You]

https://pippenainteasy.com/2021/06/25/chicago-bulls-trade-thaddeus-young/2/

He makes some sense but his 3% was down last year and he's not really the small ball 5 option they need. Definitely need a 4 though!:cheers:

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Quin Snyder on @Utah Jazz VP of Basketball Ops Dennis Lindsey moving into an advisory role (https://*********.com/social/). #TakeNote pic.twitter.com/VLCoipHIms


Quin Snyder on @utahjazz (https://twitter.com/utahjazz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) VP of Basketball Ops Dennis Lindsey moving into an advisory role. #TakeNote (https://twitter.com/hashtag/TakeNote?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) pic.twitter.com/VLCoipHIms (https://t.co/VLCoipHIms)

— Ben Anderson (@BensHoops) June 28, 2021 (https://twitter.com/BensHoops/status/1409357093832847362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)


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




Sweet! Bring on Ainge and a new coach already! :cheers:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462534/woj-jazz-vp-lindsey-moving-into-advisory-role/


Lindsey is responsible for the draft night trades that landed superstars Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell in Utah and helped the Jazz sign Bojan Bogdanovic and trade for Mike Conley in recent years.



Who was responsible for signing Clarkson and Favors? :cry:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50194428/dennis-lindsey-to-move-to-advisory-role-in-jazz-organization



A team source told KSL.com that while Zanik is expected to lead the front office there could be further moves made in the organization this offseason. That includes the possibility of former BYU Cougar and Boston Celtic executive Danny Ainge joining the organization.



bring him on

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/6/27/22553573/justin-zanik-will-be-gm-as-dennis-lindsey-moves-to-advisory-role-for-the-utah-jazz


Dennis Lindsey deserves a lot of credit for where the Jazz have gotten to as an organization. Before Lindsey, the Jazz were rudderless after the loss of Larry Miller and Jerry Sloan. Decisions were being made that put the Jazz into chaos. Dennis Lindsey turned that chaos into a strong organization. He helped create, and grow, multiple departments for the Jazz that helped them grow into what they are today. Many thanks are due to Dennis Lindsey for his time with the Jazz.



I guess. Without lucking out with Gobert I'd hate to think where they'd be. His undying love of Exum was especially brutal



Wade is very involved https://t.co/QZQBgy9soJ

— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) June 28, 2021

Good!


(https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba/status/1409361411440922624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)
With all the success of last season, it’s hard to overlook some of the decisions, or lack there of, during the trade deadline. Utah was the #1 team in the NBA for most of the season but did almost nothing to solidify themselves going into the playoffs. Players like PJ Tucker, Torrey Craig and Austin Rivers have made big contributions to their teams in the playoffs. The Jazz decided not to go after any of these players and it might have cost them a chance at going farther in the playoffs. Hopefully with Zanik now making decisions, the Jazz will be more aggressive when necessary.



I'd look more at Clarkson, Favors and Hughes and a coach that wouldn't have played any of those guys anyway


Yes, the Jazz dealt with unfortunate injuries that were the biggest factor in them struggling to advance farther in the playoffs. Although, even with a bad ankle, Donovan Mitchell put up superstar numbers. It was the Jazz defense that failed them in their second round matchup, something that having a healthy Mike Conley wouldn’t have changed much. A switchable 4/5 in PJ Tucker, for example, could have been a major addition for the Jazz. That inactivity was surely considered in this move for the Jazz. With Justin Zanik in charge now, and backed by Ryan Smith, it will be interesting to see just how much the Jazz change.



Conley would have made things tougher on Reggie Jackson which would have made one less guy for Gobert to have to worry about. Maybe Zanik likes PF's? He was Ersan's agent



League Sources: Danny Ainge is in play, but if he comes into the front office, it won't be to lead the front office. Justin Zanik is the guy

— Tony Jones (@Tjonesonthenba) June 28, 2021 (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba/status/1409350048207413248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)


If he's behind the Favors and Clarkson contracts than :cry:


How many roster changes will happen? After such a disappointing end to the season, where the Jazz underperformed as a #1 seed, the roster will be changed. It’s just a matter of how much.



Clarkson, Favors and Hughes need to go if possible. Bojan to the bench. A starting PF that can shoot and protect the rim ideally. O'Neale to the wing where he belongs. Sign Conley.


Dennis Lindsey doesn’t have a very good draft record. With the exception of Mitchell and Gobert he hasn’t drafted good at all. We don’t have any good young assets.

I’ll also never get over the fact that he drafted Trey Lyles over Devin Booker when we clearly needed shooters.
I wouldn’t be opposed to bringing in Danny Ainge. He had the Celtics in the playoffs most every year. He also went to the Finals twice and won it all once. You can never have too many good minds in a personnel dept.

Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Jun 28, 2021 | 4:45 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/latest-utah-jazz-news-recent/2021/6/27/22553573/justin-zanik-will-be-gm-as-dennis-lindsey-moves-to-advisory-role-for-the-utah-jazz#541869735)



He's done alright later in the draft but you got to know when to cut your losses. All GM's make mistakes. Stuck with Exum and Burke way too long. Who knows what the team looks like now if they get Conley for Rubio, Exum and picks

[Xiao Yao You]

Dennis Lindsey’s exit from the Utah Jazz’s president of basketball operations chair was more of an ownership decision than Lindsey’s personal one, sources tell The Salt Lake Tribune, as new owner Ryan Smith chose to move on without Lindsey at the helm and selected general manager Justin Zanik as the team’s primary decision-maker (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/).

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/)



feel better about the new owner already! :cheers:




Lindsey, hired by the Jazz in 2012, selected Snyder to be his team’s head coach in the summer of 2014 after a disappointing season from predecessor Ty Corbin. But in the years that ensued, Snyder and Lindsey’s relationship deteriorated, creating distrust between the pair that impacted day-to-day Jazz operations. The disagreements were numerous, both on and off the court, sources said (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/).

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/)







Corbin was supposed to lose games and did. Not sure how that is disappointing? Get rid of Snyder too!




While the relationship between the two men wasn’t as combative this year as it had been at various times in the two’s tenure, thanks at least in part to the success of the team in the regular season, there was a view from some within the organization that a longstanding feud had been settled. “Quin won,” one source simply said (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/).

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/)



I guess that is why he refused to play guys the past two years?






In Derrick Favors’ first stint with the Jazz, Lindsey was a proponent of starting Favors at the power forward position next to All-NBA center Rudy Gobert, touting that pairing’s defensive acumen. Snyder, meanwhile, struggled with spacing the floor under those lineups (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/).

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/)



and now they have no PF! Worked well :facepalm






Snyder joined most of the Jazz’s front office in being frustrated by the selection of Udoka Azubuike with the team’s first-round pick in 2020. The selection, sources said, was made over strenuous disagreement from the team’s scouting department, but Lindsey saw a future in Azubuike’s size and ability to finish around the basket (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/).

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/)




who should they have taken that Snyder wouldn't have played unless he was from Duke? They needed to take a center. Udoka has Gobert like potential. The one thing that made Lindsey and Snyder's careers

[Xiao Yao You]

The Jazz, frankly, also want to make moves that appeal to star guard Donovan Mitchell and his team. (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/) Even though Mitchell just signed a five-year extension with the team, the deal includes a player option after the fourth season, and the NBA’s player-favorable power structure means that Mitchell, if he wanted, could engineer an exit sooner. Mitchell (and teammate Royce O’Neale) are represented by Ty Sullivan of the Creative Artists Agency (CAA); a current CAA executive is among those being considered for a front-office role.

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/06/28/story-behind-utah-jazzs/)


big mistake. They tried that with Hayward. Big fail. Mitchell ought to be trying to appeal to the Jazz. Try playing some D and passing the ball for example

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian Windhorst: I do think that Dwyane Wade, who (Ryan Smith) brought in to be a co-owner but also be an advisor, is seriously concerned about Donovan Mitchell’s desire to stay (in Utah) long-term (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c).

– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c)




Brian Windhorst: One of the big reasons why Ryan Smith brought in Dwayne Wade, and yes, Dwyane bought into the team, but I will promise you, he got a very favorable price. (…) I think he got a very sweetheart deal. One of the reasons he did it was Ryan Smith wanted to have Donovan Mitchell stay in Utah for the long-term (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c).

– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c)







Brian Windhorst: Executives out there and and teams out there that are in the hunt for star players, they have Damian Lillard ‘s name on the board, sort of high up. And then maybe down, not high on the board, but down on the sort of middle right side of the board… They have Donovan Mitchell (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c).
– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c)



for someone who hasn't really done anything theres a lot of worry

[Xiao Yao You]

Brian Windhorst: Dennis Lindsey has done as good of a job as any executive for the last decades in the NBA. He built that team in Utah from scratch in a small market. And the reason he is no longer the president… Some of the stuff that he’s saying about why is leaving, I’m sure it’s true… is because he got on the opposite side of Donovan Mitchell. If you are on the opposite side of your franchise star, you’re just not going to survive. That’s just the way it is (https://www.audacy.com/1053thefan/sports/dallas-mavericks/nba-insider-concerned-players-dont-want-to-play-with-luka).

– via Audacy (https://www.audacy.com/1053thefan/sports/dallas-mavericks/nba-insider-concerned-players-dont-want-to-play-with-luka)



highly overrated. What has he done if you take Gobert out of the picture?




Brian Windhorst: It was an open secret in the NBA that Quin Snyder and Dennis Lindsey had a very poor relationship. (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c) Some of this stuff is somewhat known. Some of the stuff is private, but was some classic stuff, you know, coaches not not valuing developing players. You know, snide, you know, backstabbing stuff or whatever. It’s endemic in the NBA, it happens.

– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c)




too bad Snyder and Mitchell won I guess :(

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sports.yahoo.com/report-friction-between-former-gm-113043918.html


Please read the entire story, it’s filled with fantastic details. It’s understandable that Smith would come in as owner and want to clean up that level of dysfunction, and he sided with Snyder, the winning coach that got this team the best record in the NBA this season.



The winning coach that hasn't won without Gobert and has been schooled in back to back playoffs?


Whatever happens, don’t expect radical changes from Zanik — this is still a contending team. It could use more strong on-ball perimeter defenders, and there will be changes around the edges, but don’t expect the core of this team to look different (much of it is under contract already, anyway).



could use a starting 4 which apparently the coach is against.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50195101/ryan-smith-has-found-his-footing-and-is-now-shaking-things-up-with-the-jazz


Lindsey is well regarded in the basketball world, and his tenure with the Jazz should be considered a successful one. He made two big trades to land Mitchell and Rudy Gobert that shaped the Jazz's future; he found Royce O'Neale in a mini free agent camp, signed Bojan Bogdanovic and traded for Mike Conley; he chose Snyder as head coach.



Got lucky with Gobert. That was more about the Miller's agreeing to buy a pick. Got Mitchell because he wanted to be here. Royce a good find buy Snyder actually playing him is the key. Bojan should have been a starting 4. Should have traded Exum and Rubio for Conley. So again what did he do exactly?


However, he was far from perfect. He lost Gordon Hayward to Boston in 2017 after an All-Star season and a playoff run. His draft track record was spotty — and his selection of Udoka Azubuike in last year's draft was a contentious one within the organization, one source said. And the players he signed to fill out the end of the bench were far from reliable enough for Snyder to feel comfortable playing meaningful minutes.



Center was the right pick. Was there another center they should have taken? Snyder wasn't going to play them anyway. 6 rookies made no sense last year and Hughes certainly made none this year. Not having a 4 the past two years made no sense but that sound like more of a Quin problem as was him not playing guys that could have helped them despite their non Dukeness


Aside from that, Smith is a major proponent of not sticking to the status quo just because it was working. He turned Qualtrics from a successful survey company to one that created a whole new market: experience management. He's running his team the same way. The Jazz may not err on the side of continuity as much anymore — even coming off an NBA-best record.



good to hear. Been a problem with the Miller's The fact that Snyder is still coach and the fact that Zanik was already GM when they signed Clarkson. Favors and Hughes still leaves me with doubts though

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462566/jazz-have-options-with-mike-conley/


However, those plans may have changed when Ryan Smith purchased the team in October, and showed a willingness to operate in the luxury tax (albeit at a much lower level) this season, even when the Jazz could have made cost-cutting moves at the trade deadline.



they should have got under it this year as close as they were especially since the coach wasn't going to play anyone but his guys anyway


The Jazz could look to pull off a similar maneuver in the off-season, bringing a proven player back in exchange for Conley, even if it too puts them over the luxury tax, rather than watching him leave the roster with nothing in return.



could do it and get a trade exception too

[Xiao Yao You]

https://boston.cbslocal.com/2021/06/28/danny-ainge-utah-jazz-rumor-celtics-nba/


Ainge, who retired as the man in charge of the Celtics following a disappointing 2021 season, could be joining the Utah Jazz organization in the near future. The 62-year-old is reportedly (https://theathletic.com/2677231/2021/06/28/dennis-lindseys-change-in-roles-might-signal-significant-shift-in-jazzs-front-office/) being considered for an advisory role under Justin Zanik, who is taking over in Utah after a front office shakeup by the Jazz. Utah made changes this offseason after they were the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, but lost to the Los Angeles Clippers in the second round of the playoffs.



Can't have enough advisors with O'Conner and Lindsey aboard. I'd guess Lindsey will take a job elsewhere before long though

[Xiao Yao You]

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/263153/Danny-Ainge-Meets-With-Jazz-Could-Join-Team-In-Advisory-Role

[Xiao Yao You]

“Shane Battier has already been mentioned as a candidate to join the [Jazz] front office,” (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c?si=UJVUkZwHRvGPSehHiheaNQ&dl_branch=1&nd=1) Brian Windhorst said on a recent episode of his podcast. “Shane was obviously a teammate of Dwyane Wade’s in Miami for several years. He resigned from the [Miami] Heat’s front office two weeks ago in kind of a surprising move because he was regarded as a guy who might be with the Heat for a long time. There has been some speculation throughout the league that maybe this was in the works since then, and Battier would be a candidate.”
– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4s2KTB9gbzEWSsXCs4pg5c?si=UJVUkZwHRvGPSehHiheaNQ&dl_branch=1&nd=1)

[Xiao Yao You]

Recent rumblings point to Sexton’s name being involved in trade discussions — even though sources close to Sexton have the impression that the polarizing 22-year-old shooting guard is part of the long-term plans (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/06/in-make-or-break-offseason-cleveland-cavaliers-will-and-must-consider-all-options-including-possible-collin-sexton-trade.html). The chatter shouldn’t come as a surprise. Sexton is extension-eligible this summer and his agent Austin Brown, the same guy who got Donovan Mitchell the rookie-scale max from Utah, will be looking for a big payday. Sexton’s earned it. Despite being selected eighth in 2018, he’s emerged as one of the top players in the class, averaging career-bests in points (24.3), assists (4.4) and field goal percentage (47.5%) this past season. He’s improved every year and his unrelenting work ethic points to a guy who will likely keep ascending. Sexton has done everything they’ve asked, if not more.

– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/06/in-make-or-break-offseason-cleveland-cavaliers-will-and-must-consider-all-options-including-possible-collin-sexton-trade.html)




similar numbers to Mitchell and a couple years younger.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sports.yahoo.com/trade-rumor-rankings-donovan-mitchell-185842059.html


That story is particularly surprising considering that Mitchell signed a max extension with the Jazz back in November that will pay him handsomely to stay in Utah until 2024-25 at the earliest, with 2025-26 having a player option on it (https://*********.com/player/donovan-mitchell/salary/) that Mitchell will almost certainly opt out of. When that contract kicks in next season, Mitchell projects to be the 37th highest-paid player (https://*********.com/salaries/players/) in the NBA. That means even if Mitchell does want out soon for whatever reason, which seems a bit unlikely, the Jazz will have a major leverage advantage over the star 2-guard since they have him locked up for at least the next four seasons. Nevertheless, this is far from the first time there have been uncomfortable (for Jazz fans, at least) rumblings about Mitchell's future with Utah and, as they say, where there's smoke, there's oftentimes fire. It just seems like we're years away from this being a major issue for the Jazz. For the latest on the Donovan Mitchell trade front, click here (https://*********.com/storyline/donovan-mitchell-trade/).



better than him running the team. See ya

[Xiao Yao You]

To perform before NBA decision makers, Alvarado has traveled across the country to work out for scouts and coaches. The itinerary has included Milwaukee, Memphis, New York and Golden State. That’ll be followed by Utah, New Orleans, Phoenix, Toronto and Dallas (https://www.ajc.com/sports/georgia-tech/jose-alvarado-loving-nba-pre-draft-process/RRIJFKW7EBC5LJ4EUFCNFW3EZ4/).
– via Ken Sugiura @ Atlanta Journal-Constitution (https://www.ajc.com/sports/georgia-tech/jose-alvarado-loving-nba-pre-draft-process/RRIJFKW7EBC5LJ4EUFCNFW3EZ4/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462629/utah-jazz-mock-draft-round-up/


Meanwhile, next year’s first-round draft pick is nearly guaranteed to be sent to the Memphis Grizzlies to complete the Mike Conley trade, adding extra importance to finding a young piece that can help the roster for years to come.



what are the chances based on their history?


In the latest mock draft (https://sports.yahoo.com/nba-mock-draft-5-cade-cunningham-will-have-instant-impact-for-pistons-130057034.html) from Yahoo Sports, draft expert Krysten Peek projects the Jazz selecting Virginia guard Trey Murphy III.

Murphy is a sharpshooting combo forward that projects as a 3-and-D prospect that should be able to contribute on both ends of the floor in the NBA.



guard or forward? Need a pg depending on how strongly they feel Forrest will be able to develop a shot


Standing 6’9 with a 7’0 wingspan Murphy brings impressive length to his 40 percent three-point conversion rate.



probably not guard


“Hyland’s deep shooting range could be attractive here, along with his ability to play both on or off the ball in different lineup configurations,” ESPN’s Jonathan Givony (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31725639/2021-nba-mock-draft-movement-lottery-combine) said. “He had a strong showing at the NBA combine, boosting his stock firmly into first-round territory.”



sounds like possible fit

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462613/jazz-panic-unnecessary-despite-week-of-change/


With Mitchell playing at a superstar level, and the Jazz taking a 2-0 lead, the idea of losing four consecutive games to the Clippers, especially the final two without Leonard seemed nearly impossible.



a superstar that doesn't listen to team doctors, doesn't defend or pass. Yay! :(


Whichever direction Conley and the Jazz choose, the team will maintain flexibility. Outside of Derrick Favors’ two years and $20 million deal, the Jazz don’t have any truly bad contracts and could be active altering the makeup of the roster if they want to be.



Clarkson, Mitchell, Bojan, Ingles, Hughes...


Though fans may have been caught off guard by the news of turmoil among the Jazz brain trust, it should be understood that the “chilly” relationship between the team’s VP and head coach has been a poorly kept secret in Jazz circles for some time. Furthermore, it isn’t one that hasn’t prevented the team from reaching new levels of success over the last several seasons.



Lindsey should have fired him. He might still have a job


The NBA is a league of change, after nine years with Lindsey at the helm, and Zanik sitting in waiting since 2019, a shakeup was to the status quo inevitable. With a talented roster at their fingertips, Lindsey is leaving the Jazz in better shape than he found it, which is as good a time as any to depart.



take away Gobert and they are pretty much in the same place


The Jazz clearly made a mistake in the team’s opening-round series against the Memphis Grizzlies clearing Mitchell to return from an ankle injury 24 hours before game one, only to tell the guard he couldn’t play just hours before tip-off.



the doctors were obviously right


Regardless of which party was correct, with the power players have in today’s NBA, the Jazz need to show Mitchell the support he deserves as the team’s premier franchise building block, and let him know his desires are weighted in future decision making.



he doesn't deserve anything. He needs to earn it and he hasn't

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/30/22555579/utah-jazz-might-have-interest-in-adding-one-of-these-guys-to-front-office-danny-ainge-shane-battier

you forgot the other former GM already with them. Morway or whatever?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/29/22550512/summer-olympics-utah-jazz-joe-ingles-bojan-bogdanovic-rudy-gobert-are-tokyo-bound


Could Bogdanovic use a breather? Yes. Could Ingles afford to take time off so that he isn’t burned out by the time the NBA season begins? Yes. Could Gobert use the offseason to get his body right and perhaps work on some offensive moves that would have benefitted him and the Jazz in the playoffs? Yes.



already has the offensive moves. He doesn't sue them assuming anyone passes him the ball

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/06/29/utah-jazz-3-biggest-leap-next-season/


Having been the 58th overall pick in the NBA Draft, expectations were low when Miye Oni (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/o/onimi01.html) came to the Utah Jazz in 2019. However, now that the 23-year-old out of Yale will be entering his third year, he is going to need to start producing if head coach Quin Snyder is to continue giving him minutes in big games, as he did in five of the team’s playoff games against the Clippers.



COTY played him anyway


If Gobert were able to develop consistent post moves to take advantage of smaller defenders, then it would go a long way in helping the Jazzmen lift the Larry O’Brien trophy.



they'd have to pass him the ball though


Jazz fans should keep an eye on him during the NBA Summer League (https://www.nba.com/news/jazz-announce-dates-for-2021-salt-lake-city-summer-league) action that will be held in Salt Lake City on Aug. 3-6. Hughes could prove then that he deserves to be a part of the rotation.



I doubt it. He's not as good as Wright Forman. Guaranteed contract. :cry:


Utah’s championship dreams aren’t out of reach next season. And if these players could seriously improve their game, they could see themselves atop the Western Conference once again.



if Oni and Hughes are the keys they are in serious trouble. They need a PF. They had 3 that could have helped them but apparently Snyder was trying to prove he had no bench so Lindsey would get fired so they didn't play

[Xiao Yao You]

The source told the Daily News that the Knicks are interested in packaging rising star RJ Barrett in a deal for a star guard, like Portland’s Damian Lillard or Washington’s Bradley Beal. (https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/knicks/ny-knicks-kelly-oubre-jr-20210630-jkdawjukqrhjba67iasenp5pxa-story.html) If both the Trail Blazers and Wizards are uninterested in a deal, the source says the Knicks are also monitoring Cleveland’s Collin Sexton, Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Charlotte’s Terry Rozier as younger guards the franchise can fold into its plans for the future.

– via Kristian Winfield @ New York Daily News (https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/knicks/ny-knicks-kelly-oubre-jr-20210630-jkdawjukqrhjba67iasenp5pxa-story.html)



Barrett for Mitchell

[Xiao Yao You]

Yext, Inc., the AI Search Company, today announced that it has appointed Shane Battier, Vice President of Basketball Development and Analytics of the Miami Heat for over five years, to its Board of Directors, (https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_technology/yext-appoints-nba-standout-shane-battier-to-its-board-of-directors/article_8b3d8982-3613-5fd6-a6ec-c4465128676e.html) effective June 30, 2021.

– via WFMZ (https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_technology/yext-appoints-nba-standout-shane-battier-to-its-board-of-directors/article_8b3d8982-3613-5fd6-a6ec-c4465128676e.html)




guess he's out

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50196640/what-does-donovan-mitchells-heroic-postseason-mean-for-the-jazz-going-forward-


The early series loss highlighted Utah's weaknesses — none more noticeable than a lack of depth and an over reliance on a singular style of play — and the team no doubt will try to address those this summer. But while the loss shined a spotlight on what Utah needs to do to improve, it also focused on what the team has.



You can't say how deep they are all year and than say they aren't. What was noticeable was no PF(for 2 years), the two gunners and the coach that refuses to adjust


With how he's shot in the last two postseasons, he's made it clear that any conversation regarding the best shooters in the league must now include him. As for the conversation about the players that can lead a team to a title, should a healthy Mitchell be on that list?



no because like MJ learned it's a team game at both ends


In reality, he might already be there.



let's see him be in the top two on the team first :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462690/jazz-options-if-conley-leaves-in-free-agency/


The first place the Jazz would look in Conley were to leave this summer would be at Joe Ingles who is already on the roster. Luckily for the Jazz, the Australian veteran has proved to be a more than capable starter over the last several seasons when Conley has missed games.



Joe needs to stay on the bench


The Jazz will watch the development of rookie Trent Forrest who impressed during stretches last year on a two-way contract but may be too inexperienced to trust as a full-time rotational player in just his second season.



His shooting is the problem not his experience


Forrest will likely play for the Jazz in both the Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer Leagues, and his performance could go a long way in determining how the Jazz approach free agency.



Free agent I believe so maybe not likely


Jazz Could Draft A Point Guard

It's where they should be looking unless they think Forrest can develop a shot


TJ McConnell – Indiana Pacers: 8.6 ppg, 6.6 apg, 3.7 rpg

Like him but can't shoot


Alex Caruso – Los Angeles Lakers: 6.5 ppg, 2.8 apg, 2.9 rpg

yes even if Conley is back


Raul Neto – Washington Wizards: 8.7 ppg, 2.3 apg, 2.4 rpg

COTY doesn't like him. Why bring him up over and over?

Caruso is certainly the guy from that list

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/6/30/22558301/utah-jazz-news-and-notes-jazz-front-office-shakeup-donovan-mitchell-rumors-and-a-great-monologue


Some of those disagreements in the article include frustrations Dennis Lindsey and the front office had with Snyder’s smaller, consistent rotations that didn’t allow bench players to develop. Snyder’s viewpoint was that a lot of those bench players weren’t NBA caliber. Both sides have their merits and faults in the situation.



Brantley, Morgan, Ersan, Forrest and Thomas all have shown enough to at least get a look when others are sucking


Another interesting tidbit was Snyder’s frustration, along with team scouts, with the selection of Udoka Azubuike. It appears that pick was very much a Lindsey veto of everyone else and taking the player that he wanted.



who should they have taken? Needed a center. Got a Gobert like prospect


And what does it mean to be happy for Donovan Mitchell? Probably three things. The first is winning. Mitchell has shown that he will put everything on the line for his team to win. Yes the Jazz lost in disappointing fashion in the playoffs, but Mitchell’s play on one and a half legs was heroic. He risked terrible injury for the Jazz with each play on the floor. Second thing Mitchell is looking for is to maximize his earning potential as much as possible. What was likely frustrating for Mitchell was missing out on almost $33 million that could have been added to his max contract had he made all-NBA. Injury was a big part of that happening, but there are things the Jazz can do to help Mitchell have bigger earning potential in the future. Quin Snyder needs to think about ways that he can set up Mitchell for more success. The Jazz play a shared system that helps with creating open shots for their myriad of shooters. It’s a great system for creating open shots for the Jazz shooters, but does it maximize Mitchell’s scoring potential? That is going to be a tightrope the Jazz will walk where they need to give Mitchell as much potential to score and succeed as possible, while also winning. Now, many will say that Mitchell has one of the highest usage percentages in the league, which is true, but can the system be tweaked to focus more on getting Mitchell 3-4 more ppg next season? The third thing is related to what we just said. Mitchell, like all stars, wants to be recognized for his contributions. Mitchell deserves all-NBA honors and more all-star appearances. Getting him more chances to shine will give him the recognition he deserves.



The offense was fine especially when Clarkson and Mitchell don't have the ball. Defense is the issue. Mitchell steps up there and passes the ball move he might deserve all-NBA. He doesn't now

[Xiao Yao You]

John Hollinger: The team to watch with Conley is Dallas, (https://open.spotify.com/episode/5L3pgWiodL9MgSzbWK8teF) though. I mean, they were the team that was after him when he was a free agent last time and he re-signed with (Memphis). Yeah, I would definitely keep an eye on Dallas.
– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/5L3pgWiodL9MgSzbWK8teF)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462763/jazz-have-good-options-with-30th-pick-per-draft-expert/


Peek: “He’s more of a two-three wing but I think he’s got a lot of room for improvement at the next level. I think the NBA game caters to him more than the college game. The college game is more structured, and he’s more of a free-flowing wing off the dribble and he has a great first step.”



don't need another Mitchell/Clarkson/Hughes

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462737/jazz-offseason-needs-ranked/


Jazz Offseason Needs

starting PF, new coach, get rid of Clarkson, Favors and Hughes. Sign Conley. Move Bojan to the bench. Hope Mitchell decides defending and passing is important too


Quin Snyder described it best after the series.



he didn't mention that he decided to do nothing about it did he :facepalm


Gobert had arguably the greatest defensive regular season of any player in NBA history, but he alone can’t slow an entire offense.



he can and does. He can't do it every night against every team though


The Jazz learned early in Donovan Mitchell’s career that without more offensive weapons around him, opposing teams could focus all of their defensive attention on him, and unravel Mitchell’s scoring brilliance.



learned even earlier that you need shooters around Gobert and went and got Rubio and put Favors back in the starting lineup anyway


The Jazz went out and found Jordan Clarkson, Bojan Bogdanovic, and Mike Conley to aid Mitchell on offense, now they need to find a way to give Gobert more help on the defensive end.



without killing their spacing. Get rid of Clarkson and Favors who hurt the spacing anyway for a starting PF that doesn't


What became painfully obvious throughout the conference semifinals loss to the Clippers was the Jazz lacked versatility. What must be addressed is whether this lack of versatility came from the makeup of the roster, or Quin Snyder’s unwillingness to reach deeper into the team’s rotation to develop that versatility.



came from both probably but Snyder refusing to try anything else was inexcusable


One area where the Jazz are seemingly handcuffed by a lack of versatility is at the center position where Gobert, Derrick Favors, and rookie Udoka Azubuike all carry similar skillsets. Though their talent level varies greatly, their contributions mostly consist of setting screens, rolling to the basket, and protecting the rim on defense.



that's what they wanted. I thought it was stupid myself. Need a 4 that can play 5 and play alongside Gobert and protect the rim if he has to protect the perimeter and vise versa. Also needs to be able to shoot. Ersan could have helped as could MJorgan and Brantley


With a lack of additional skills offered by any of the Jazz three centers, Snyder is forced to compensate by keeping shooters and playmakers on the floor at nearly every other position.



that's the way he wants it. He wasn't forced


While Brantley likely wouldn’t have been an option for the Jazz in the playoffs due to his lack of experience, he enters the offseason has a question mark due to his lack of playing time, rather than a more known commodity.



why not? Oni, Niang and Favors weren't doing anything


If the Jazz can stomach his steep price tag, it will keep their championship window open for the next several seasons, and that is a good thing. If they can’t, expect veteran Joe Ingles to move into the starting lineup and for the Jazz to look for a mixture of veteran and young help to fill out the roster.



Ingles needs to stay on the bench


However, the Jazz would be wise to look for additional depth in the backcourt in the draft. Trent Forrest showed promise on a two-way contract handling point guard duties for the Jazz during stretches, but finding a younger, more offensively skilled guard could pay dividends down the line as the Jazz current roster ages.



always about offense. Need a young pg because they have young guys everywhere else. Forrest can't shoot


With or without Conley next season, the Jazz combination of Mitchell, Ingles, and Clarkson is better than adequate.



it's horrible. One guy that can run pick and roll and he needs to have a smaller role not a bigger one.


Following up on the Jazz need for guard depth, they could use a promising young player at most positions.



they have them. Having a coach play them is another issue


Furthermore, the Jazz have Elijah Hughes, Miye Oni, Juwan Morgan, Matt Thomas, and their first-round draft pick, all of whom will likely play for the summer league roster with a chance to prove they have a future in the NBA.



wouldn't count on Oni, Thomas or Morgan


Without their traditional ability to utilize the G League last year, the Jazz didn’t get to develop their young players the way the franchise has preferred under Snyder. As a result, they could put some future concerns to rest by having a few youngsters prove they belong on the NBA level this summer.



before the last two years Snyder preferred playing them especially if they were from Duke. The past couple years seems to hayve been a power play on his part. He won, the Jazz lost

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/1/22556413/nba-utah-jazz-key-dates-through-the-offseason


See, I told you that this summer was going to be a whirlwind. Players taking part in the Olympics, summer leagues, any other pro-am games (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/6/29/22550395/powder-league-in-draper-utah-schedule-tickets-rosters-players-rayjon-tucker-rylan-jones-yoeli-childs) or recovering from injuries aren’t going to have much time to get ready for the upcoming NBA season.



as always

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462803/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-bones-hyland/


However, unlike other small guards who rely on added depth to their jump shot due to a lack of height, Hyland stands a full 6’3 with an impressive 6’9 wingspan. Hyland’s career 40 percent three-point shooting percentage on 6.0 attempts per game is a strong indicator of future success at the NBA level.



got the wingspan they like or liked under Lindsey anyway


Though he has some clear playmaking skills, Hyland averaged just 2.1 assists per game as a sophomore. At 6’3 and under 200 lbs, the sophomore will have to prove he can play the point guard position in the NBA as he may struggle against bigger, stronger perimeter players in the NBA.



need a 1. Next...

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/2/22558012/could-danny-ainge-end-up-with-utah-jazz-byu-notre-dame-boston-celtics-ryan-smith-gordon-hayward


At the time, Ainge was Public Enemy No. 1, or maybe No. 2, for Jazz fans because it was seen as a major blow to the Jazz’s future.

That, of course, turned out not to be the case. In June of that year, the Jazz selected a guard from Louisville named Donovan Mitchell (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/28/21723049/donovan-mitchell-more-than-basketball-nba-utah-jazz-max-extension). So maybe all is forgiven.



still a blow :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Emiliano Carchia: Tyrone Wallace will play for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Summer League, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell @Emiliano Carchia. Wallace averaged 16.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists in G League with Agua Caliente Clippers this season

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



still better than Exum

[Xiao Yao You]

Alberto de Roa: Croatia is eliminated from Olympic contention after a defeat to Germany 86-76. Bojan Bogdanovic’s 38 points were not enough for Croatia (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter TikotDeRoa (https://twitter.com/TikotDeRoa)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: The Utah Jazz will work out John Mooney this week, (https://*********.com/social/) league sources tell The Athletic. Mooney, who played collegiately at Notre Dame, played in the NBL in Australia this past season and was all-NBL. He was the only player in the league to average a double-double
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/462809/ranking-the-utah-jazz-offseason-trade-assets/


Two notable omissions from this list are the contracts of Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert who are nearly untouchable for the Jazz in any trade. Both players have max contract extensions that kick in this offseason and were the main reasons for the team earning the top record in the NBA this season.



Gobert was and Conley 2nd but keep telling yourself otherwise


The Jazz are likely to hold onto the guard as he provides great insurance regardless of the outcome with Conley’s free agency and could continue to bring value if he chooses to sign another contract to stay in the NBA next summer.



he'll get another extension before they deal him


By no means do they need to move Bogdanovic, but he could be a valuable asset for a team that is willing to flip defensive versatility which the Jazz desperately need, for a proven shooter and scorer.



move to the bench. Doubt you get much for him


However, as the NBA has veered more sharply towards shorter contracts for non-superstar players, Clarkson’s three years remaining the final of which is a player option may scare some teams off.



be hard to unload but him, Favors and Hughes are the first guys I'd be looking at


5. Royce O’Neale: 3 years – $27.8 million

move back to the wing. Get a starting PF


Udoka Azubuike had a miserable rookie season after suffering a serious ankle injury during his debut with the Salt Lake City Stars in February. Additionally, he’s stuck behind Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors in the Jazz depth chart, so even if he could play, he wouldn’t get a chance to show it.



If he could play you look to make a move. Should be anyway.


The Jazz gave Favors the full three-year mid-level exception last season and while he was serviceable in his role for the Jazz this season, that money looks like it would have been better spent elsewhere.



as would Davis the year before. Maybe Zanik has a clue?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/07/04/utah-jazz-ideal-man-vice-president/

already got a job

[Xiao Yao You]

But from a Jazz point of view, there’s not much to debate. Sources tell The Athletic that Utah wants Conley back and will make every attempt to keep the All-Star in a Jazz uniform once free agency opens (https://theathletic.com/2689414/2021/07/05/utah-jazz-want-mike-conley-to-return-finding-more-guard-and-wing-depth-on-a-budget-offseason-questions/).

– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2689414/2021/07/05/utah-jazz-want-mike-conley-to-return-finding-more-guard-and-wing-depth-on-a-budget-offseason-questions/)





(https://*********.com/storyline/mike-conley-free-agency/) So, let’s get this part out of the way: The Jazz have no intention of taking a step back concerning their roster, (https://theathletic.com/2689414/2021/07/05/utah-jazz-want-mike-conley-to-return-finding-more-guard-and-wing-depth-on-a-budget-offseason-questions/) according to sources. This means the intention of putting this team in a position to win a title continues, which will be costly because the small market Jazz will be bringing back a financially costly roster for next season.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2689414/2021/07/05/utah-jazz-want-mike-conley-to-return-finding-more-guard-and-wing-depth-on-a-budget-offseason-questions/)







The Jazz did not make a big push for Batum when he was bought out in Charlotte, and there is some regret in the building for not making a harder play on him. (https://theathletic.com/2689414/2021/07/05/utah-jazz-want-mike-conley-to-return-finding-more-guard-and-wing-depth-on-a-budget-offseason-questions/) But, honestly, the Jazz shouldn’t be criticized for that. It’s hindsight. Batum was sensational this season for the Clippers, but many thought he was washed, which is why the Clippers basically got him for free.

– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2689414/2021/07/05/utah-jazz-want-mike-conley-to-return-finding-more-guard-and-wing-depth-on-a-budget-offseason-questions/)




they should be criticized. Not like Snyder would have played him. Batum made the right choice

[Xiao Yao You]

Etienne has now worked out for four teams — the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors (https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/wichita-state/article252465533.html) — with three more workouts scheduled with the Brooklyn Nets (on Friday), Toronto Raptors (July 5) and Phoenix Suns (July 6). He has also received interest from the Charlotte Hornets, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz and Miami Heat.
– via The Wichita Eagle (https://www.kansas.com/sports/college/wichita-state/article252465533.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/6/22545789/finals-grades-by-beat-writer-issues-for-every-member-of-utah-jazz-mitchell-gobert-conley


If there is any knock to Mitchell’s game it is that he has slipped slightly on the defensive end. It is understandable that a player with his offensive abilities is not a lockdown defender, but it’s the last piece of his game that hasn’t seen the same type of increased improvement.



How could he slip when he doesn't play D?


However, I do think it’s fair to wonder what it would be like if Gobert had better touch around the rim, if he had a baby-hook shot at his disposal, or if he were stronger on pick-and-roll drives. Gobert’s offensive flaws have long been documented and the Jazz do not rely on him for scoring the way that other teams rely on their centers. Even so, there are things that Gobert can improve on and as the years go by it gets harder to defend him when there are small changes to his offensive game that could help the Jazz.



someone would have to pass him the ball and Mitchell and Clarkson aren't doing that. Had his best year. Carried the team again. A - while the golden boy gets an A for gunning :roll:


There are certainly concerns moving forward about Conley’s longevity, and those will be discussed when the Jazz enter free agency talks with Conley this summer. But as far as the 2020-21 season is concerned, Conley performed admirably.



their 2nd best player and again can't match up with the golden boy :facepalm


He shot the lights out, he stepped up and took on more offensive responsibility when the Jazz needed it, and he improved other areas of his game along the way. There’s not much more you could have asked of him after a surgery and isolated offseason of rehab.



sucked much of the year. Your grading sucks big time!


In short, O’Neale does what he does well, but at this point, he needs to do a little more.



Trying to play PF at 6'4 while guarding the top perimeter player on the other team isn't enough? He lays it all out there. :oldlol:


The NBA’s 2020-21 Sixth Man of the Year (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/5/24/22452203/utah-jazz-jordan-clarkson-named-2020-21-nba-sixth-6th-man-of-the-year) was stellar for the Jazz. He was the team’s second-leading scorer all season long, and he continued to elevate his game.



He's awful!


If Ingles is at the point in his career where rest needs to be prioritized in order for him to be fresh for the playoffs, then the Jazz should make that effort if he remains on the team. But this is not the first time that Ingles’ performance has declined for the Jazz during the playoffs and if he can’t be relied upon to give the Jazz what they need at the most important time of the year, then it negates all the good work done during the regular season.



asking him to play too big of a role. Had his best season


Favors was clearly an upgrade over Tony Bradley as a reserve center, but that’s a low bar to clear and shouldn’t be the standard for someone who is on a three-year, $29.2 million contract. There were some great moments throughout the season but they were few and far between.



wasn't clear to me. I'd argue Tony and Morgan were better in last year's playoffs


It’s important to note that this was Niang’s fifth year in the league. While it’s clear that he continues to improve as a player, it’s also fair to wonder if the Jazz should invest more time in a player that wasn’t able to deliver during the playoffs.



why not? They continue to invest in a coach that doesn't deliver in the playoffs


The Jazz needed some of their developing players to take a jump this season and Oni didn’t really stand out as much as anyone would have liked.



He was their 10th man who ideally would have been playing with the Stars. He did fine. COTY shouldn't have kept playing him


He played in just one playoff game and the Jazz never made him a real part of the rotation. So he did good in his limited time.



was great. Should have been in the rotation. Probably should have started


Juwan Morgan played in more games this season than he did last year in his rookie season, but that’s because the Jazz had more blowout games than they did last season. Morgan was used almost exclusively in garbage time and that didn’t really give him the opportunity to flourish.



great in the one game he got to play


As a rookie who needs polishing, it’s not easy to get time on the court with a team that’s trying to secure a No. 1 seed and has title hopes. That being said, Elijah Hughes had a few nice moments and shot the ball a little better than was expected.



shot horribly and often


There isn’t really enough of a sample to say whether or not Azubuike did well. So with him, we’ll go with a pass/fail grade and he passes if for no other reason than being on the sideline and cheering on his team even though he couldn’t be on the court with them.



he didn't do well. See what he does this summer and going forward


Thomas shot just 25.6% from 3-point range after joining the Jazz and never looked good enough to become a part of the rotation.



he had his moments. Certainly showed enough that you could have threw him in a game when the guys in there were sucking


Even so, Brantley’s shooting numbers looked significantly better this year so he deserves credit for improving his game despite on-court opportunities.



was great the one game he got some run


But, if Forrest wants to have a spot on a roster in this league he’ll have to make some real improvements on his shooting after finishing the season hitting just 19.2% from 3.



was great otherwise. Give you an F for that though! :D

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/6/22565420/looking-back-at-the-utah-jazz-decision-to-draft-deron-williams-over-chris-paul-nba-finals


The Williams-Paul debate raged throughout the years they both played (Williams last appeared in an NBA game in 2017, while Paul is still flourishing), but two things before we go any further: Williams was tremendous in over five seasons with the Jazz, and there’s no telling how long Paul might have stayed with the Jazz had they drafted him.



Jazz blew it regardless


Bolerjack then asked Sloan about both players’ defensive capabilities. Sloan replied, “I think that had something to do with it. Chris Paul will be a terrific player. We just felt some of the intangibles that (Williams) showed us when he came in and worked out would make a difference in making that decision. It was a tough decision, but we were very happy.”



ouch!

[Xiao Yao You]

Keith Smith: Per a league source, here are adjusted expiration dates for large TPEs created last off-season: (https://*********.com/social/) J. Grant DEN – $5.3M – 8/6/21 S. Adams OKC – $27.5M – 8/9/21 D. Gallinari OKC – $10.1M – 8/9/21 A. Horford PHI – $8.2M – 9/7/21 E. Davis UTA – $5.0M – 8/6/21 Updates soon on @spotrac!

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



could get a decent player for Davis. Have Bradley's too

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes


Barnes stock is rising fast. It’s not surprising that a guy that does everything he can to win on the floor is doing everything possible to improve his game while he’s off the floor. If the Jazz want Barnes, they’ll need to trade up and that will likely take trading Rudy Gobert. If Barnes drops to Golden State or Sacramento, would they be willing to pass up their pick for Gobert? The Kinds may be willing because of the lack of playoffs for a franchise that has missed them for years. The Warriors might be interested in adding another all-star for what is likely the last few years of Steph’s prime. Even if the Jazz could get a trade like that to happen, it’s hard to see Barnes dropping, he’s as impressive as they come. But crazier things have happened on draft night.



tanking!


The Jazz has the 30th pick in the draft. Maybe an article about a prospect that might be picked in the late 1st round?
Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 7, 2021 | 10:02 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542187967)



" "


Because the Jazz have never traded up in the draft, right? I mean only for our two best players, but still.


Posted by James Hansen (https://www.sbnation.com/users/hansenjames) on Jul 7, 2021 | 3:19 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542202577)



Didn't trade up for Conley


But the Jazz SHOULDN'T trade up in the draft this time. Trading current assets for future assets is the opposite of what the team should be doing right now. We are in win-now mode.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 7, 2021 | 3:31 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542203066)



Don't agree. If you can get someone you like by moving up or moving down do it. If you can get rid of Clarkson, Favors and Hughes in the process than really do it!


If they’re willing to take a step back for a couple years I think they could explore trading DM or Gobert. Trading either would be a huge gamble, and a painful decision for a fanbase that’s waited years for the team to reach this level. Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Jul 7, 2021 | 5:07 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542206319)



I could see get better by trading Mitchell. Not painful to me. Hard to imagine them not being a lottery team if they trade Gobert though


I think one solid role wing player will do wonders if we can sign/trade for one Its best we make minimum changes and focus on strategy, how to adapt to offenses, etc. We were one of the best Jazz teams ever breaking several records last season. It would not be prudent to shake it up just yet.

Posted by statpower (https://www.sbnation.com/users/statpower) on Jul 7, 2021 | 6:58 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542210241)



and still no PF :facepalm

Gobert is not our most valuable player the MVP must be able to catch the ball, rebound, box out, shoot .. etc

Posted by statpower (https://www.sbnation.com/users/statpower) on Jul 7, 2021 | 12:39 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542194469)




:facepalm


You Forgot "Defend."

As Gobert seems to be the only Jazz player doing any of that these days.

Posted by Benjamin A. Sorensen (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Benjamin%20A.%20Sorensen) on Jul 7, 2021 | 12:58 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542195430)



someone gets it


Good players should be able to hit it at a good rate. Or get fouled which they both do a lot. Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Jul 7, 2021 | 2:26 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542199872)



good players should be able to defend and pass the ball too


Miye Oni survived Nigeria's first cuts for the Olympic team. Down to 15. 12 will go to Tokyo Didn’t see Dok’s name on the list so assume he didn’t make it. Ekpe Udoh did though. There was a guy we probably should have kept to backup Rudy. Same style and played hard every night.


Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Jul 7, 2021 | 8:50 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542215937)



as we saw with Favors the same style isn't what they need. Need to be able to be versatile. Udoh would have made more sense than Davis and they could have signed a PF! :lol

Also kind of bizarre Dante Exum made the Australian Olympic team
After not playing at all with Houston following his trade from Cleveland. Kind of risky with being a free agent. But maybe figures the exposure will do him good.


Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Jul 7, 2021 | 9:19 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542217488)



Aussie's not very deep I guess


I’d welcome him back on a minimum contract.

Bigger guard that can play some defense. Is quick enough to match up against anybody. Has an offensive explosion from time to time. Doesn’t sound so bad for a minimum price tag.
Anyone else want to join me on Exum island (maybe it should be downgraded to Exum atoll)?

Posted by I'mJazzed (https://www.sbnation.com/users/I'mJazzed) on Jul 7, 2021 | 9:43 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542218205)



no guaranteed deal maybe


I’m not even sure he can play better than Oni at this point. Posted by Big_B (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Big_B) on Jul 7, 2021 | 10:20 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/7/22566223/2021-nba-draft-coverage-scottie-barnes#542219022)



better than Hughes maybe. That's about it

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz



Wingspan: 6’4”

dinosaur arms? probably not


Second, you may notice Butler’s skill in running an offense. Baylor’s offense was a well-oiled machine, and Jared Butler was a central feature of it. He stands out as a high IQ player, seeing plays before they happen. Butler is adept at maneuvering the pick & roll. If the defender goes under the screen, he’ll shoot without hesitation. If not, he’ll weave through the lane, and utilize a lot of creativity in delivering passes to the big man in tightly defended situations. That’s an ability the Jazz sorely need.

too bad the best player in Jazz history doesn't bring that


Apparently he’s a decent defender, but just like Conley, his size may be a bigger issue than his intensity can compensate for.


Posted by GregOstertagged (https://www.sbnation.com/users/GregOstertagged) on Jul 8, 2021 | 2:41 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542241627)



Conley has 3 inches on him as far as wingspan and defends fine. Mitchell and Clarkson not so much


I think Conley is a great player but I’ve always had concerns about his fit with DM given both are 6’1". This concern is only magnified by an undersized O’Neale. Obviously the team had a great season but I think size played some factor in their playoff exit (injuries had the biggest effect). Comparing DM and Conley’s size to other contenders is why I think other teams have a natural advantage over UTA. I agree that size is not the only thing to focus on but you also shouldn’t ignore it, otherwise NBA scouts would spend more time at YMCAs. Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Jul 8, 2021 | 6:22 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542247442)



Trade Mitchell and move O'neale to the two and get a PF and they are no longer undersized


They should be looking for some taller players.



Posted by PlayfasterJazz (https://www.sbnation.com/users/PlayfasterJazz) on Jul 8, 2021 | 9:32 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542253996)

You'd have to have a coach that would play them
(https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542253996)
(https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542253996)
my concern is would he get any mins to develop with DM ? Q didnt really give Greyson much chance to develop here


Posted by statpower (https://www.sbnation.com/users/statpower) on Jul 8, 2021 | 3:08 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542242705)




shouldn't be expecting anyone to come in and play right away unless they played for Duke



It's frustrating cause I see us when I see Phoenix
Great SG, veteran PG. Lots of 3s. Big center. Etc


Posted by SKMike (https://www.sbnation.com/users/SKMike) on Jul 8, 2021 | 11:11 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/8/22565828/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jared-butler-utah-jazz#542255660)



Booker better than Mitchell and Monty better than COTY. That's the difference

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/8/22561221/2021-nba-draft-coverage-roko-prkacin


Physical: 18 years old (turns 19 this November), 6’9” with a 6’11” wingspan and 8’11” standing reach, 234 pounds



unless he can play the 3 that's a short wingspan


I think this is definitely fixable with an NBA-level shooting coach.

Jazz have one?


I view him as someone who could come in and fit Georges Niang’s role while providing some additional flexibility, assuming his shot develops like Niang’s did. He potentially fills a spot that the Jazz need desperately as a weakside defender with length and has unusual upside for someone who will likely be available at the 30th pick. With shooting being his main weakness but something that is definitely fixable, I wouldn’t be shocked to see him develop like Pascal Siakam or OG Anunoby (who were ~65% and ~60% free throw shooters their first two years in the league but now average 80% and are threats from distance).

Why would you expect a rookie to come in and play when Ersan didn't?


a defensive upgrade from Niang is not the worst idea ever. I’m seeing him projected mid 1st to early 2nd, which places him right where we could possibly get him. Posted by GregOstertagged (https://www.sbnation.com/users/GregOstertagged) on Jul 8, 2021 | 12:42 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/8/22561221/2021-nba-draft-coverage-roko-prkacin#542236734)



Niang was one of their better defenders

[Xiao Yao You]

Belmont basketball great Ian Clark is in the Bruins 2021 Athletic Hall of Fame class, (https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/2021/07/09/former-nba-player-ian-clark-belmont-2021-athletic-hall-fame/7923047002/) Belmont University Athletics announced Friday.
– via Mike Organ @ The Tennessean (https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/2021/07/09/former-nba-player-ian-clark-belmont-2021-athletic-hall-fame/7923047002/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Kane Pitman: Asked @Dante Exum about his decision to play in the Olympics for Australia. “It was no decision. It’s always been my dream to play in an Olympic Games. (https://*********.com/social/) I told my agent straight away, I don’t care what anyone has to say, if they had any advice. This is what I’m doing.”

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




I'm surprised he made the team

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/8/22568722/lets-talk-about-the-idea-of-kevin-love-signing-with-the-utah-jazz


The Jazz could certainly fall into the “contending teams” category, so is it time for them to try to acquire Love?



need a 4 but he's not really what they need


While Love probably would have fit in very well with the Jazz’s core a few years ago, the team has been completely transformed and doesn’t really need what Love can offer, and his shortcomings are the same ones the Jazz have now.



they need a 4 and Rudy could use the help on the boards and he doesn't hurt their spacing. But need someone to protect the rim and guard the perimeter ideally as well


Specifically, the Jazz don’t need a “stretch four” anymore, as their two starting forwards, Bojan Bogdanovic and Royce O’Neale, are good outside shooters. Truthfully, Love at this point in his career is more of a “stretch five,” or center, as he probably can’t defend 4s anymore.



they aren't 4's. big part of their problems

[Xiao Yao You]

Orazio Cauchi: Serbian side Partizan Belgrade is showing interest in NBA free agent big man Ed Davis, (https://*********.com/social/) according to a source. Davis spent this last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, averaging 2 points and 5 rebounds per game.
– via Twitter paxer89 (https://twitter.com/paxer89)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: Caleb Agada, who was a star for Nigeria tonight in their exhibition win over Team USA, recently worked out for the Utah Jazz. I’m told Agada’s NBA interest spiked tonight, for obvious reasons. (https://*********.com/social/) He will play for the Denver Nuggets in Summer League
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463088/utah-sports-teams-need-to-be-bold-to-win-championships/


Utah Teams Need To Take Chances

something the Jazz have never done. See if anything changes under new ownership


The Utah Jazz typically have not been a team that would go over the luxury tax. They would draft and build their team that way and be creative in trades or free agent signings. That only goes so far to win a championship, and it is rare for a team to draft two Hall of Famers like Karl Malone and John Stockton.



and probably the only time a team drafted two of the greatest players in back to back draft and waste two decades with them


The Utah Jazz are very close and just a pair of injuries really away from being champions, but the hard part upcoming is how to keep this team in contention. Ryan Smith is the new owner and in his first off-season and the main priority is what to do with Mike Conley.



are they close?


His maximum deal allowable would put the Jazz well over the luxury tax (https://kslsports.com/462566/jazz-have-options-with-mike-conley/) and that will be a tough choice to make with new ownership. Seeing how good the Jazz were this past year and so close to a title, bringing back Conley and going over the luxury tax is what the Jazz must do to win an NBA title. Then they can be creative in getting role players to join this team next year.



being bold would be firing the coach after having the top record or trading the 6th man of the year or the world highest paid backup center for someone that makes more sense. The first one obviously isn't happening

[Xiao Yao You]

https://bustingbrackets.com/2021/07/10/nba-mock-draft-2021-updated-mock-draft-combine-key-deadline/2/



Joel Ayayi

Shooting Guard Gonzaga

https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/w_75,h_75,c_fill,g_auto,f_auto/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.fansided.com%2Flogos%2Fnba%2Fjaz z.png


In the last mock draft, I had Ayayi going to Utah and I believe he is still the best fit for Utah here. The Jazz is in win-now mode and could use a player that could come off the bench and contribute right away. Ayayi has a good IQ and can fit in any offense, his three-point shooting and defense will allow him to help Utah right away. I do not think Ayayi’s ceiling is high but this is a nice value for Utah at this stage in the draft.



unlikely anyone comes in and plays right away unless they went to Duke. Need a 1

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463199/joe-ingles-has-big-performance-for-australia-in-exhibition-win-over-argentina/


Ingles was the second leading scorer for the Boomers with 16 points, two rebounds and three assists, while shooting 5-of-13 from the field and 4-for-11 from the three-point line in 28 minutes.



looks like he struggled to me


Former Jazzman and current Houston Rockets guard Dante Exum played 16 minutes while scoring seven points, one rebound and three assists.



not bad for the Golden Child


For Argentina, Luis Scola led the way with 25 points and eight rebounds on 9-of-18 shooting from the field and 4-for-9 from downtown. Denver Nuggets guard Facundo Campazzo chipped in 12 points and Luca Vildoza had 11 points.



still getting it done. Always liked him :cheers:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/12/22563376/2021-nba-draft-coverage-joe-wieskamp


Wingspan: 6’ 11”



what the Wizard liked


Wieskamp should be available when Utah is on the clock with the 30th pick. Wieskamp is a quick-trigger sniper from deep comparable to shooters like Furkan Korkmaz and Kyle Korver. This would be a solid pick for the Jazz.



need a 1

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz games will continue to be on AT&T SportsNet during the 2021-22 season, after the franchise signed a one-year extension to its previous TV deal during the 2020 offseason, (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-games-will-be/) The Salt Lake Tribune has learned. The team first signed a contract with AT&T SportsNet — then Fox Sports Net — in 2009. That deal paid the Jazz approximately $20 million per year for a 12-year contract that expired at the end of the 2021 season.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-games-will-be/)





But in the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Jazz management and AT&T SportsNet management agreed to continue their relationship for at least another season. The deal was completed before the sale of the franchise from Larry H. Miller Group of Companies to new owner Ryan Smith (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-games-will-be/).
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-games-will-be/)






It’s unclear how much AT&T SportsNet will pay the Jazz for the rights to broadcast their games in 2021-22. What is clear, though, is that the rights to broadcast Jazz games are quite valuable. Of the 30 teams in the NBA, the Jazz’s 5.9 average rating on locally broadcast Jazz games this season ranked second, only slightly behind the Golden State Warriors’ 5.96 rating (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-games-will-be/).
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-games-will-be/)

[Xiao Yao You]

But Ingles, who scored 17 points in Team Australia’s 91-83 win over Team USA on Monday night in Las Vegas, soberly stating that the Aussies held no fear or doubt that they would beat this team of American stars is certainly the latest in a growing number of “stop you in your tracks” moments when it comes to USA Basketball. “No disrespect to them. They’re a hell of a team, obviously, the guys they’ve got on their roster,” Ingles said. “And Pop (Gregg Popovich) standing up there is always nice to see. But we came in here expecting to win the game, (https://theathletic.com/2703850/2021/07/13/with-sirens-blaring-and-losses-mounting-what-can-team-usa-do-to-fix-this-and-avoid-an-olympic-disaster/?source=rss) and that’s what we did.”
– via Joe Vardon @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2703850/2021/07/13/with-sirens-blaring-and-losses-mounting-what-can-team-usa-do-to-fix-this-and-avoid-an-olympic-disaster/?source=rss)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50203347/nba-draft-5-prospects-to-like-for-the-jazz-at-no-30


The good news: There's been plenty of rotation players taken that late in the draft, including last year with Desmond Bane going to Memphis and playing a key role in the Grizzlies' run to the playoffs. This year's draft is a deep one with a number of players who are all over the place on NBA draft boards. So the Jazz should have some options to improve the team.



we've seen under Snyder that it is unlikely anyone steps right in. Improving the team comes from vets


There are negatives, though: his release is low, he especially struggled on spot-up 3s (something the Jazz will need him to make), and he doesn't appear to have the feel needed to run an NBA offense full time. But his athleticism and defensive ability make him someone who could potentially jump right into an NBA rotation.



just not on Utah unless he went to Duke


Why we like him: Jones is long, energetic and can defend three or four positions. That alone would give the Jazz a bit more flexibility on defense. On the offensive end, he can create a bit and is a good cutter without the ball. The big knock against him, however, is his shot.



need a 1. Next...


Why we like him: The Jazz were undone partially by injuries to Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley, but their second-round loss to the Clippers showed that despite having the best record in the league, the team was far from matchup proof. A little more versatility on the defensive end would have given the Jazz another look to throw at Los Angeles. Robinson-Earl could provide the Jazz another look.



they had different looks. COTY refused to try anything


Why we like him: Grimes shot 40% from 3 on over eight attempts per game last season while playing for one of the best defensive teams in the country — not a bad combo. His shot alone makes him an intriguing prospect, but there's more, too. He's capable of defending both guard positions out on the perimeter and is especially good at blocking shots on the perimeter (that probably won't translate too much against NBA talent, but shows he should be good at closing out). Grimes is coming off a strong combine performance where he showed a bit more playmaking abilities that has raised his stock into first-round territory.



sounds like their guy


Why we like him: If the Jazz don't feel there's a player that can help them immediately then making a more risky selection might be the play. If that's the case, Thor could be an interesting addition.



there is absolutely no reason to think anyone would help them immediately but every year here we are

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463233/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-quentin-grimes/


Grimes should have had more success near the rim than he did in college with his strong frame, high release, and good athleticism.

another guy that can't make a layup. What's new?



Though he has a good frame, he lacks elite length and athleticism which will lower his ceiling as a defender at the NBA level.



The Wizard wouldn't have taken him. We'll see with Zanik

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/big-wings-who-defend-shoot-are-in-short-supply/


Big Wings Who Defend, Shoot Are In Short Supply (https://saltcityhoops.com/big-wings-who-defend-shoot-are-in-short-supply/)

what about a starting 4/small ball 5 that can protect the rim?


How many people would have guessed that Niang was one of Utah’s three players to hit these four stat thresholds? Sure, he only barely hit the minimums for P&R handler defense and overall defense, but the point here is that Niang might be more impactful than a casual fan realizes. While not particularly athletic in the traditional sense of the word, he does have good size at 6-foot-7. No, he’s not an on-ball stopper, but when ball handlers do try to go at him, he can often hold his own or at least leverage the team scheme to help himself. He’s coming off a minimum salary deal, but might get a piece of an exception from someone. (The Jazz can go past the minimum to keep him without using their MLE/BAE because they hold his Bird rights.)



was one of their best defenders.


At 6-foot-1, Conley doesn’t necessarily bottle up ball handlers across all positions. But the fact that he’s on this list underscores just how devastating it would be for the Jazz to lose him. In addition to all he does as a creator and defense-solver, he’s also one of the best on-ball defenders on the team, even at his size.



we saw how devastating in the playoffs


Portis will likely decline a $3.8 million player option, so it feels appropriate to list him here with the free agents. His improvement at guarding the ball makes him worth mentioning. He’s also just 26. But after spending a ton of resources last offseason to shore up big man depth, I’m not sure if it’s wise for the Jazz to use their only exception on a guy who played 80% of his minutes at center last year, unless they really feel he can guard on the ball more regularly.



they liked him before or maybe only the Wizard did? Need a starting 4/small ball 5. O'Nelae plays wing again/ Win win!


It was a bit surprising to find the 2018 Jazz draftee on this list, and honestly he was barely positive in D-Raptor (+0.02). Even if he were on firmer ground, the 6-foot-4 guard probably doesn’t quite fit the bill from a size perspective, and it’s hard to imagine the Jazz reacquiring him anyway.



might still have him if the Wizard would have given up Exum. No thanks on Duke players


PatBev fancies himself a multi-positional stopper, but at 6-foot-1 he’s mostly successful at hounding guards, not wings. He’s also 33 and missed half the season with injuries. The Clippers would probably consider moving him, but his salary would require the Jazz to give up a real piece.



love him. They want Clarkson/Favors/Hughes?


We highlighted Boucher last offseason as a guy with some upside, and he didn’t disappoint in his first crack at being a rotation player. He has some stretch capabilities as a big but also protects the rim, and his presence on this list means he can also hold his own when guarding the ball in space (small sample, though). But for all those reasons, the Raps will likely hang on and see what they’ve got.



be a great fit it sounds like


Holiday was the player I kept mentioning last offseason (https://saltcityhoops.com/offseason-targets-part-ii-big-wings-who-can-defend-shoot/) in the event that the Jazz decided to use their larger exception on a defensive wing and then fill the backup center role with a cheaper option. Instead, they used the full MLE on Derrick Favors and that took them out of the Holiday running, but the latter is right back here on the list of 3-and-D specialists. He’s 6-foot-6, although somewhat slight of build to be wrestling with Kawhi/LeBron types full-time. It’s also hard to say whether Indy’s expected retool may make him available.



had him once. He go to Duke since then?


The most interesting name here is Victor Oladipo, whose all-league and all-defense career was thrown off course by a series of injuries. He was one of the very worst defenders against P&R ball handlers last season, but if a team thinks they could get him back to something even close to his 2-time All-Star level, Oladipo is unrestricted. Fellow free agents Alec Burks, Semi Ojeleye and Alex Caruso are smaller wings, but all of them just barely missed the P&R threshold while meeting the other three.



too bad COTY didn't like Burks and they are stuck with Clarkson instead


PJ Washington ($4.2M) and Larry Nance ($10.7M) are technically fours (or even small-ball fives), but both are 6-foot-7 forwards who made the grade on catch-and-shoots and have some defensive prowess in space, too.



would love Nance


Everybody loves to talk about how Nic Batum might have fit, but he is way below average guarding the ball at this point: 11th percentile guarding isos, 30th against P&R handlers. He’ll be an unrestricted free agent, at 32.



COTY wouldn't have played him


Free agent and former Jazz lotto pick Dante Exum once again bottled up pick-and-roll ball handlers this past season (99th %ile in brief action before his latest injury), but that 11% catch-and-shoot number is so bad it looks like a typo. (Only nine attempts, but still.)



God no


Harrison Barnes was barely negative on D-Raptor (-0.12) and barely missed the cut on P&R defense (47th %ile), but if there were a way to acquire his $20.3M salary without parting with a core piece, he seems to match a lot of what Utah is looking for in terms of size, athleticism and an ability to create his own shot.



Clarkson/Favors/Hughes!

[Xiao Yao You]

G League Ignite Draft Prospect Isaiah Todd is canceling workouts with teams owning late first-round picks — such as the Jazz — because he has focused on visits with teams with lottery picks, (https://theathletic.com/2703448/2021/07/13/sixers-opening-up-ben-simmons-trade-talks-knicks-interested-in-collin-sexton-plus-more-nba-news/) sources said.
– via Shams Charania @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2703448/2021/07/13/sixers-opening-up-ben-simmons-trade-talks-knicks-interested-in-collin-sexton-plus-more-nba-news/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Coaches took Ayton through footwork drills and coverages. By the second half of his rookie season, Ayton seemed to be learning more from film study — including of Rudy Gobert, Clint Capela, and Adams. “Sometimes rookies don’t want to sit and watch film,” Williamson said. “But as the season went on, he became more a student of the game.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31807851/nba-finals-2021-how-deandre-ayton-incredible-evolution-transformed-suns)

– via Zach Lowe @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31807851/nba-finals-2021-how-deandre-ayton-incredible-evolution-transformed-suns)





Williams and assistant coach Mark Bryant had overlapped with the Oklahoma City Thunder; Williams hired Bryant away in part to work with Ayton. “When I first met him, I was like, ‘Man, this kid is a legit 7 [feet],'” Bryant said. “Because so many times people are like, ‘This guy is 7,’ and I get around him, and he’s really 6-10. Deandre is a legit 7. (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31807851/nba-finals-2021-how-deandre-ayton-incredible-evolution-transformed-suns) And when I saw him moving around, I said to myself, ‘Oh my god, this kid is gonna be alright if he keeps working it.'” (Ayton is officially listed at 6-foot-11.)
– via Zach Lowe @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31807851/nba-finals-2021-how-deandre-ayton-incredible-evolution-transformed-suns)







It was Bryant’s way of getting Ayton to visualize how it should look and feel as he drops back against the pick-and-roll defending two people at once — ball handler and roller. If that rolling big — Ayton’s man — gets beyond Ayton’s head, the Suns are at risk of allowing a lob dunk. But overreact to that threat, and you abandon the most dangerous player on the floor — the guy with the ball. Ayton had to find that in-between space, and learn how to hold it. If he could do that, his teammates on the perimeter could stick on outside shooters instead of darting inside to help him. He watched even more film of Gobert. “He plays big,” Ayton said. “I try to steal those tendencies. I try to be giant.” (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31807851/nba-finals-2021-how-deandre-ayton-incredible-evolution-transformed-suns)
– via Zach Lowe @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31807851/nba-finals-2021-how-deandre-ayton-incredible-evolution-transformed-suns)

[Xiao Yao You]

Orazio Cauchi: Real Madrid officially announced the signing of Nigel Williams-Goss. (https://*********.com/social/) It’s a two year deal until 2023

– via Twitter paxer89 (https://twitter.com/paxer89)




better than Hughes anyway

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/07/12/utah-jazz-joe-ingles-possible-golden/


In light of Team USA’s stunning loss on Saturday (https://thejnotes.com/2021/07/11/utah-jazz-player-aids-humbling-usa/) to Utah Jazz role player Miye Oni and Nigeria in Las Vegas, it’s now anyone’s guess as to which country ought to be the favorite to take home gold from the upcoming 2021 Tokyo Olympics.

USA is the favorite

[Xiao Yao You]

“I always go back to (John) Stockton and (Karl) Malone,” coach Gregg Popovich said. “Jerry (Sloan) ran the same play for 20 years, they just ran it really well, and that’s what we want to do. We want to play defense a certain way, offense very simply, but still taking advantage of everybody’s abilities. “It was better,” Popovich also said. “Bit by bit, every day I hope.” (https://theathletic.com/2705863/2021/07/13/team-usa-basketball-olympics-argentina/?source=rss)
– via Joe Vardon @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2705863/2021/07/13/team-usa-basketball-olympics-argentina/?source=rss)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463285/utah-jazz-draft-prospect-jaden-springer/

sounds like a possibility. Need more of a 1 though I'd say

[Xiao Yao You]

While the 30th pick in the draft is not the spot you think about for picking an All-Star-caliber player, it is a spot where you can get a serviceable and skilled role player who is ready to make an impact right away.



not unless he went to Duke


There are some things that are going to be very black and white for the Jazz this offseason. Re-signing Conley is an easy decision (https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/9/22568084/utah-jazz-insiders-newsletter-why-need-mike-conley-nba-draft) and if the Jazz can make a deal there, they will. Other decisions though, won’t be so easy for the Jazz.



it's not easy because of his injuries and the price but hard to imagine them getting better without him


Georges Niang (https://www.deseret.com/2019/10/20/20922667/georges-niangs-nba-journey) is a free agent. Niang has been a good player but he wasn’t very helpful during the playoffs. Has he done enough to stay on this roster? Miye Oni (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/12/14/22174188/georges-niang-and-miye-oni-making-strides-on-the-defensive-end-for-the-utah-jazz-preseason) seems like he could be a reliable defender if he could limit his fouls, but he also needs to develop a more reliable shot.



Niang at the right price. He played D anyway as did Oni. They will get better. Clarkson, Favors and Hughes are the first guys to look at. Get rid of them and than depending on what the roster looks like after that you make other choices


What about players like Derrick Favors (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/25/21718627/derrick-favors-utah-jazz-nba-trade-free-agency-new-orleans-pelicans-return-feels-like-home) and Joe Ingles (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/1/8/22220611/joe-ingles-ironman-streak-snapped-after-more-than-5-years)? Those could potentially be players that the Jazz would be willing to deal if it meant getting some younger players who offer more versatility to the roster. That’s definitely not what a lot of Jazz fans want to hear, but if it means that this team can get over that second-round hump in the postseason, it would be worth it.



doubt they go anywhere. Ingles probably due for an extension if anything


Finally, there is the vast amount of developing players or nonrotational players that the Jazz need to decide what to do with. Do they want to put their faith in Juwan Morgan (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/8/22/21396275/how-rookie-juwan-morgan-went-from-undrafted-free-agent-to-playoff-contributor-for-the-utah-jazz) as a small-ball five, or cut ties? Do they want to give Jarrell Brantley (https://www.deseret.com/2021/4/14/22383642/despite-limited-opportunities-utah-jazz-two-way-player-jarrell-brantley-okc-thunder-nba-defense) a minimum contract, or let him go elsewhere to continue his NBA career?



they need to elsewhere since the coach won't play them. They can play


The Jazz are at a point where they can’t afford to use so many roster spots on empty players like Matt Thomas and Ersan Ilyasova, or players that might amount to something in three, four or five years. If they decide to keep some of their low-minute players, they need to figure out a way to get them meaningful minutes through the regular season so that they are able to help when needed in the playoffs.



Ersan was one of their best players and should have been on the floor. Thomas might have helped too. Who knows? This is all on the coach who remains


The Jazz’s needs are clear. The team needs depth at the wing position, it needs a versatile front court and it needs a backup point guard. The mechanisms for the Jazz to acquire players are clear. They can draft, use the taxpayer mid-level exception, sign players to minimum contracts or make deals with other teams.



the needs have been clear and yet there is still no PF that Snyder will play. They have a backup pg

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/13/22565729/utah-jazz-face-hard-questions-heading-into-draft-free-agency-derrick-favors-joe-ingles-mike-conley


Why good is not good enough: Jazz face hard questions heading into draft, free agency



we'll see. If Clarjson, Favors and Highes remain it's the same old Jazz regardless of new GM and owner. Same coach already and he may be the biggest problem


Much has been proven about this Jazz team. The group that is shepherded by Donovan Mitchell (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/11/22/21583284/donovan-mitchell-reportedly-agrees-to-maximum-contract-extension)and Rudy Gobert (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/12/20/22191422/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-quin-snyder-donovan-mitchell-contract-extension-nba-news) is good enough to be nearly unstoppable in the regular season, they have the top-end talent to lead a team. But first- and second-round playoff losses aren’t going to cut it anymore.



apparently they are since the coach who wouldn't try anything remains


The Jazz’s biggest problems during the playoffs were lack of depth and lack of versatility.



actually we don't know that since the coach wouldn't try anyone else


The Jazz are hamstrung by only being able to play one type of basketball — a traditional five-man lineup. When faced with small-ball lineups or opponents that can play five-out with a shooting big, it’s no secret the Jazz don’t fare very well.



Ersan, Morgan, Brabtley, Forrest, Thomas...


Gobert is an exceptional center and has been honored as the Defensive Player of the Year three times (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/9/22527073/utah-jazz-center-rudy-gobert-wins-third-nba-defensive-player-of-the-year-award), including last season. Saying that the Jazz need a small-ball five, or a way to make their rotation more versatile, is not meant to take away from what Gobert can do. It is, however, a way for the Jazz to humble themselves and admit their shortcomings.



need a starting PF that can protect the rim if Gobert has to cover the perimeter and play center if he goes to the bench. Need a coach that will play him first though


The Jazz also have a depth problem. The team patted itself on the back many times throughout the regular season when a bench player would have a big scoring night for the team and credited depth as a strength, but the truth is that the Jazz’s rotation rarely went further than nine players. That means there were eight roster spots taken up by players who rarely played meaningful minutes, or didn’t play meaningful minutes at all.



that's on Snyder


Without a reliable backup point guard, the injuries to Conley and Mitchell were amplified. Without more versatile wing defenders, the Jazz were overpowered from the perimeter and had to make tough choices on coverages. And finally, without a small-ball five, the Jazz’s front court was targeted and worn ragged in switches that were advantageous for the Clippers.



Ingles is fine as a backup. Needed a 3rd guy and Forrest can't shoot. Mitchell and Clarkson don't defend and COTY doesn't care


Meanwhile, Los Angeles fielded multiple lineups, had options beyond nine players and were able to advance to the Western Conference finals because they had options and depth.



again they had a coach that tried everything vs a coach that tried nothing


When Kawhi Leonard went out with an injury (https://www.deseret.com/2021/6/16/22536598/kawhi-leonard-injury-update-leonard-reportedly-expected-to-miss-game-5-utah-jazz-la-clippers-nba), Terance Mann stepped into the starting lineup. The Clippers had Reggie Jackson and Rajon Rondo and Patrick Beverley to rotate through depending who would be better against the matchup. They also had Ivica Zubac for a traditional center, DeMarcus Cousins who could stretch the floor a little, and Nicolas Batum and Marcus Morris to play small ball. The Clippers also had their stars and role players who could shoot and defend.



is Mann better than Ersan. Morgan, Brantley, Forrest and Thomas? Certainly take any of them over Cousins

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/14/22566365/2021-nba-draft-coverage-chris-duarte-oregon


Wingspan: 6’ 7”

not what the Wizard liked


As a momentum-shifting playmaker in Dana Altman’s 2-3 zone defense, Duarte was excellent. He’s less effective in man concepts, particularly in isolation and at the point of attack. He’s susceptible to a quick first step and allows dribble penetration. He tends to ball watch, overplays passing lanes, and can be overly aggressive on closeouts. These defensive habits often put him out of position, forcing his teammates to scramble, rotate, and recover.

Duarte struggles as a playmaker and was a bit of a turnover machine in college. His assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.16:1 is well below average for a guard, and he often telegraphed his passes to the corner. Duarte struggles to deliver accurate passes in a few key areas for guards - the pass to the big out of pick and roll, the “skip” pass to the far corner, and the lob.



not what they need

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/13/22567140/utah-jazz-2021-nba-draft-jt-thor-auburn


Age (on draft day): 18.88

School: Auburn
Height (w/out shoes): 6’8.5”
Height (w/shoes): 6’9.25”
Wingspan: 7’3.25”
Standing Reach: 9’2”

Weight: 203 lbs



Wizard like length

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/13/22574202/2021-utah-jazz-post-mortem-the-perils-of-being-very-good-not-great-nba-offseason-trade-draft


We’ve seen a similar story unfold over the past three years in the playoffs: Last year in the bubble we saw the Jazz give up a 3-1 lead to the Nuggets, who then went on to get rocked in 5 by the eventual champion Lakers; the year before we saw the Jazz lose in 5 to the Rockets, who would go on to lead a competitive series against the Warriors until they lost the series clincher with Kevin Durant out with an injury. And on and on it goes. In each of those series, our regular-season defensive strength surrounding Rudy Gobert ended up becoming a liability. And in each of those series, we lacked star power to go punch for punch. In short— we just weren’t good enough.



What we've saw the past two years is a coach unwilling to try anything new. 3 years ago their offense sucled


The quickest way to get better—get already good players to come play for you. The Jazz have demonstrated a small amount of success in luring mid-level free agents to Salt Lake City, however, Utah has not—and will likely not for the foreseeable future be a free agent destination—although I’d be ecstatic for my Silicon Slopes bros to prove me wrong. Whereas we’ve experienced moderate success with signing Bojan Bogdanovic or Jordan Clarkson to favorable deals, the Jazz have never in history been able to sign an All-NBA talent. For goodness’ sake, a list of the best five Jazz FA signings (https://clutchpoints.com/5-best-free-agent-signings-utah-jazz-history/) is topped by Carlos Boozer and Mehmet Okur!



the fact that you think those are favorable deals says it all


Hill and Conley were and have been great Jazz-men, however, they also led us to the aforementioned playoff exits and disappointments.



they led? :facepalm


The point is that bottoming out in the draft in subsequent years benefits teams—especially those in smaller markets—in three distinct ways: (1) the potential of landing a superstar, (2) getting talented upward-trending players on a discount relative to their value, and (3) building a team with players on roughly the same schedule developmentally.



unfortunately Gobert emerged and ruined the grand plan not that the Wizard had much success drafting high


Maybe the departure of Dennis Lindsey solves some of those problems facing the Jazz—it probably doesn’t. The tradeable asset chest is wanting—ironically again because we’ve been too good to have good young players to trade or desirable future draft picks. Our only hope is that we somehow nail the 30th pick or get a steal in free agency.



maybe Snyder will play his bench guys since he's not trying to get the GM fired anymore?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/12/22560156/2021-nba-draft-coverage-trendon-watford


Height: 6’ 7.5”

Weight 237 lbs

Wingspan: 7’ 2.25”



got the length

need a 1

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/12/22561347/2021-nba-draft-coverage-trey-murphy-iii


Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 next June), 6’9” with a 7’0” wingspan and 8’9.5” standing reach, 206 pounds at the combine

not elite wingspan

need a 1

[Xiao Yao You]

Brooklyn has maintained an interest in Tucker dating back to the Nets’ James Harden trade talks. Miami also discussed adding Tucker in variations of the Heat’s negotiations for Victor Oladipo, sources said. (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2945899-nba-league-insiders-expect-a-flurry-of-sign-and-trades-this-summer) Add the Lakers, Warriors, Nuggets and Jazz as teams that could vie for Tucker’s services too. Minnesota, led of course by former Rockets executive Gersson Rosas, has coveted Tucker dating back to the 2020 draft, sources said, and the Wolves have continued searching for front court improvements.
– via Jake Fischer @ Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2945899-nba-league-insiders-expect-a-flurry-of-sign-and-trades-this-summer)

[Xiao Yao You]

Virtus Bologna is in advanced talks with Ekpe Udoh (https://sportando.basketball/en/virtus-bologna-reportedly-in-advanced-talks-with-ekpe-udoh/) as reported by the Bologna’s newspaper this morning. The Italian Champions would have passed Partizan and Zeljko Obradovic in the race to the Nigerian big man and the agreement would be close.

– via Sportando (https://sportando.basketball/en/virtus-bologna-reportedly-in-advanced-talks-with-ekpe-udoh/)




He'd be better than Favors

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50204520/patrick-kinahan-stereotypes-continue-to-hover-over-jazz


"The fact that they put on a happy face for him, but their true feelings come out when African Americans come there to play is what I think is the issue and the problem that will ultimately let him say, 'You know what, I'm done here. Thank you, get me out of here.'"



see ya!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463410/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-jt-thor/


Where the Jazz proved to have a lack of versatile two-way players, Thor is the type of player that could provide added defensive coverage alongside Rudy Gobert while still complimenting the team’s offense as a potential floor spacer.



it's what they need but don't expect it from a rookie

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem


He improved even more with extra time in Quin Snyder’s system, to the tune of a career best 18.4 points per game and the 2021 6th Man of the Year Award. When he’s on, there’s almost nothing you can do to stop him.



let him stop himself most nights


But should Joe Ingles and Jordan Clarkson really be coming off the same bench?



no. Clarkson needs to go. Put Bojan on the bench


So, the team can’t shoot when Clarkson and Ingles share the floor, we can’t defend when Clarkson and Mitchell share the floor (based on slcdunk article earlier this year) and our team +/- is absolutely terrible for some reason when Clarkson and O’Neale share the floor (https://www.nba.com/stats/lineups/traditional/?Season=2020-21&SeasonType=Playoffs&TeamID=1610612762&GroupQuantity=2&CF=GROUP_NAME*E*J.%20Clarkson&sort=PLUS_MINUS&dir=1). That’s a problem for Quinn that I don’t envy. Not a lot of lineups left.


Posted by ThatFilthyApe (https://www.sbnation.com/users/ThatFilthyApe) on Jul 14, 2021 | 1:36 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542438251)



bye bye Clarkson is what that says


I remember how bad our bench used to be. Part of the problem was Bradley’s defense though. Maybe Clarkson would be more efficient if he wasn’t forced to be the focus on offense all the time. The other reason it might make sense to move Clarkson – his stock is super high right now. You know other GMs will be asking about him.
I don’t think I would make such a big change for next year, but if we could swap Clarkson for a guy who can break down a defense and pass the ball sometimes, maybe it would make sense.

Posted by Big_B (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Big_B) on Jul 14, 2021 | 1:42 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542438438)



a lot of the reasons the bench was bad. Bradley was hardly the sole blame.



. . .we reeeaaaally need someone who could create his own shot because we have too many unathletic guys who can’t create their own shot without running a system.
So, why not just run the system?

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 14, 2021 | 2:34 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542439990)



exactly


When they ran the system, the system worked well. The problem was players wanting to be a hero and not running the system.

The issue with being low on the shot clock and having to get a shot off is real, but much rarer than fans seem to think. Usually, when the Jazz are forced to take a last-second shot, it’s because DM or Clarkson got the ball with eight seconds left and then dribbled for seven seconds before being "forced" to take a last-second shot. It is very rare that they get the ball with only a couple of seconds left.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 15, 2021 | 7:35 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542453666)



yep


I have strongly argued in the past that trading for Love would be insane, but the math just changed dramatically. Instead of having to pay him $30m/year, he would come at a tiny fraction of the cost.

He’d have to be a center now because he is too slow to guard the perimeter. What about bringing him in as a backup to Rudy? The most we could offer would be the luxury MLE (I think $5.9m). We also have the BAE ($2.3m?) or vet’s minimum.

He wouldn’t protect the paint like Favors, but he can shoot.
Would he accept that role and salary to be on a contender? Would we want him? What would we do with Favs?

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 14, 2021 | 3:09 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542440917)



not the ideal fit


IF we were going to change our backup center, we want a great defender, not a great shooter. If defense is a weakness, why bring in Love? Nice to have a big name player I guess, but I don’t think he provides more than Ersan, does he? Ersan at least hustles on D, and has a shot at guarding 4s. If we need a center because of foul trouble or injuries, give Dok a try.


Posted by Big_B (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Big_B) on Jul 14, 2021 | 4:26 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542442616)



Need a starting 4 that can play 5. Dok wasn't ready


I’m not even sure Kuzma would make UTA a better team but he could easily play PF, allowing Bojan to play SF, O’Neale SG, and DM PG, which are more natural positions for each player.

Posted by Palmetto Bug (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Palmetto%20Bug) on Jul 14, 2021 | 4:09 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/the-downbeat-latest-jazz-news/2021/7/14/22577228/joe-ingles-jordan-clarkson-utah-jazz-bench-6th-man-problem#542442276)



:facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/who-said-small-ball-is-the-only-way-to-win-a-title/?addata=espn:nba:teams


At the same time, the Suns found their most successful lineup (https://www.nba.com/stats/team/1610612756/lineups-traditional/?Season=2020-21&SeasonType=Playoffs&sort=PLUS_MINUS&dir=1&PerMode=Totals&DateFrom=07%2F11%2F2021) in Game 3 without a center on the floor. Early in the third quarter, Cam Johnson replaced Ayton, and the Suns cut 10 points off Milwaukee’s lead over the following minutes (https://www.nba.com/game/phx-vs-mil-0042000403/play-by-play). But the Bucks were also small at the time, and when Bobby Portis and Lopez rejoined the game, the Bucks pushed their lead back to double digits, forcing the Suns to use Frank Kaminsky as a backup center rather than continue their small-ball experiment. Phoenix, like Milwaukee, has been best when big.



it's what COTY should have been trying with Ersan/Morgan/Brantley the past two seasons

[Xiao Yao You]

Jake Fischer: The Dallas Mavericks are targeting Fenerbahce head coach Igor Kokoskov to join Jason Kidd’s coaching staff, per league sources. Kokoskov won EuroBasket 2017 with Luka Doncic as the Slovenian national team head coach (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter JakeLFischer (https://twitter.com/JakeLFischer)

[Xiao Yao You]

Collyn Taylor: South Carolina guard AJ Lawson will work out today for the Orlando Magic (http://twitter.com/collyntaylor/status/1415650625883344897). He’s already worked out for Cleveland, Boston, Utah, Atlanta, Charlotte, Sacramento and San Antonio.
– via Twitter (http://twitter.com/collyntaylor/status/1415650625883344897)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: One potential draft name that I’m hearing for the Jazz (this does not mean the Jazz will draft him, just that the Jazz like him) Joel Ayayi (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463498/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-sharife-cooper/



First and foremost, at 6’0 and 160 lbs, he may simply be too small to compete full time in the NBA. There aren’t many players with that physical profile that succeed in the league, and Cooper could be the next causality in a long time of super talented undersized players.

Along those lines, all the concerns that come with undersized players showed up during Cooper’s 12 games at Auburn. Due to his size, he was an ineffective defender from both an effort and effectiveness standpoint. Bigger guards will easily bully him at the next level, even if he puts in more effort than he did in college.


Slow-motion look at Sharife Cooper’s shooting mechanics. pic.twitter.com/ce2X6Q3MGD (https://t.co/ce2X6Q3MGD)

— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) June 26, 2021 (https://twitter.com/Mike_Schmitz/status/1408913219305959424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)


Furthermore, his inefficiency as a shooter both finishing at the rim and from the three-point line are a red flag. Despite scoring more than 20 points per game, he had some of the poorest shooting percentages in college basketball.
Shooting below 40 percent from the floor and 23 percent are shockingly low, and scoring in the NBA won’t get easier against bigger defenders with a deeper three-point line.
There is some hope that this shot could improve with an overhaul to his flat-footed jumper and with more spacing in the NBA, but neither is a guarantee and without better efficiency, it will be hard for him to earn a spot on in a rotation.



next...

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463436/unrivaled-utah-jazz-need-to-go-big-this-offseason-to-acquire-a-superstar/


Getting either of those two would be tough due to the contract and amount of money they would eat up for the salary cap and beyond into the luxury tax. Landing either Simmons or Lillard would be better than paying that penalty for Conley. No offense to Mike Conley, but those other two would be a bigger boon and make the Jazz a heavy favorite to win the NBA title next year.



Simmons makes no sense unless Rudy is being moved. Lillard doesn't make much sense either unless Mitchell is being moved!


“The thing that’s interesting now is that Ben Simmons name is being discussed about getting Damian Lillard out of Portland. Damian Lillard doesn’t want to go play in Philadelphia,” Kirry said. “He said that the Lakers and Utah place that would interest him. Why can’t the Jazz jump on that? What would the Jazz have to give up to be able to get Damian Lillard here? Paying a luxury tax for Mike Conley seems like a Fool’s error compared to what you could be trying to get with Damian Lillard. Come into town now.



Conley plays D and can play off the ball. Lillard is a better version of Mitchell

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463481/utah-jazz-mock-nba-draft-round-up-2-0/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/15/22575696/utah-jazz-what-does-kawhi-leonard-injury-mean-for-jazz-nba-draft-free-agency


Batum would give the Jazz a great small-ball five option who can stretch the floor and knock down shots reliably. Would the Jazz be willing to use part or all of the taxpayer mid-level exception on Batum if it comes to it?



had that option this year and COTY refused to play any of the 3 options


Gobert has offensive limitations, there’s no secret there. But the Jazz still have the best rim protector in the game and that makes him incredibly valuable. You don’t want to go giving up one of the pieces that makes this team great, just to see how something else would work.



the piece that makes them even good. Without him it's lottery time again

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/15/22570770/2021-nba-draft-coverage-jeremiah-robinson-earl-villanova


Height: 6’ 7.75”

Weight 242 lbs
Wingspan: 6’ 9.75”



non Wizard length

[Xiao Yao You]

Height W/O Shoes: 6’7.25”

Height W/ Shoes: 6’8.5”
Weight 206.4 lbs.
Wingspan: 7’0.25”
PTS: 9.3
RBS: 6.2
BLK: 1.0
NBA fit As a 6’8” player with long arms and elite jumping ability, Greg Brown’s natural position seems to be the 4, but he might be able to slot in as a small-ball 5

not great length for a 4 or 5

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463531/what-would-a-damian-lillard-trade-look-like/


The Jazz would have two potential avenues for acquiring Lillard, starting with a sign and trade with Mike Conley. Depending on Conley’s next contract, the Jazz could send the veteran guard along with one of the team’s top rotation players not named Rudy Gobert or Donovan Mitchell, plus whatever young players the Blazers wanted, with as many as three future first-round draft picks through the year 2027.



Mitchell would be the only way to get him. Get it done!


That would give Portland a win-now option in Conley coming off his first All-Star appearance, an above-average role player in any one of the Jazz additional pieces, and reasonable draft capital down the line.



Doubt Portland wants to win if they trade him. Tank


If the Jazz were deadset on acquiring Lillard at all costs, they could create a deal centered around Gobert and future picks. However, Gobert was arguably the Jazz best player during the regular season and led the roster to the best record in the NBA while Lillard’s Blazers finished sixth in the overall standings.



there's no argument. Conley was their 2nd best player. He's not an ideal fit with Lillard but either is Mitchell


Without Gobert on the roster, the Jazz would have a roster heavily weighted towards the backcourt with no real options to balance it out with a lack of future draft picks. There’s a significant risk that both rosters would be worse in a Lillard for Gobert trade.



Portland would still be good with Gobert and McCollum and whoever they got for Nurkic. Jazz would suck

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/16/22579289/utah-jazz-insiders-first-two-days-nba-free-agency-draft-mike-conley


They can certainly find some length and wing depth on the free agent market and sign players to minimum contracts without having to trade away their rotational players, but they might choose to trade away someone like Joe Ingles in order to add a player or two who are younger and bring more versatility.



doubt Ingles is going anywhere. Clarkson/Favors/Hughes

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/16/22578481/2021-nba-draft-coverage-tre-mann-utah-jazz-prospect-university-of-florida


Standing at 6’ 4.25” tall and a 6’ 4.00” wingspan, many were disappointed with his frame. Florida listed the guard at 6’ 5.00” and to have a negative length score left many disappointed.



non Wizard approved wingspan


Furthermore, with Mike Conley’s free agency, Joe Ingles’ advancing age, and an unimpressive Trent Forrest experiment, the Jazz need a more long-term, inexpensive option at the PG spot.



Forrest was impressive other than his shot

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/16/22566388/2021-nba-draft-coverage-joel-ayayi-gonzaga


Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 next March), 6’5” with a 6’7.5” wingspan and 8’5” standing reach, 180 pounds



average wingspan


Watching film of Joel, the biggest thing I noticed was his excellent decision making off of dribble hand offs, in transition, and in the pick and roll, which are all attributes that Quin Snyder prizes heavily in his ball-handlers. I seem him as a mix of Jordan Clarkson and Joe Ingles without as much of either’s ball-handling or fluid shot-making form, with more rebounding capability. While a lot of his threes came off of post-ups in college, something he will rarely see in Utah, his movement without the ball is great, so that transition would likely be an easy one for him. His game reminds me of a more skilled-passing Josh Hart or Donte DiVincenzo, with slightly less athleticism than either, or a better rebounding, poorer shooting Desmond Bane. With the Jazz not picking Bane last draft and kicking themselves for it, Joel Ayayi may be the closest similar player in this draft, while offering a younger successor to Joe Ingles and Jordan Clarkson. Plus, his transition to Utah would be greatly aided by his compatriot, Rudy Gobert, and Gonzaga legend, John Stockton. Though Ayayi is currently a weaker defender than all of the aforementioned players (other than maybe Jordan Clarkson), nabbing an immediate contributor with weaknesses that the Jazz’s style of play can help to cover up would not be a bad move, whether that’s at the 30th pick or trading down a bit.



needed a center. Bane isn't one :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/07/18/utah-jazz-nba-draft-outlook-2-possible/


Without trading up at the July 29 NBA Draft, the Utah Jazz brass isn’t likely to land a game-changer. Still, picking at No. 30 overall, the Jazzmen (https://thejnotes.com/) have a shot at snagging an instant addition to the rotation.



highly unlikely if you've been paying attention especially the past two years


A few needs stand out, namely a lockdown perimeter defender plus a big who could sub in for Rudy Gobert to mix things up as a skilled post scorer. Fortunately, several fellas fitting one of those descriptions might be available at the end of the first round.



now they need a post scorer! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/07/18/utah-jazz-2-things-cannot-afford-lose/3/


Indeed, instead of the organization concocting an unnecessary overhaul, Quin Snyder and his players could own their past, vowing together not to allow history to repeat itself.



good luck with that. That doesn't fix the problems they have with the head coach and most of the team not playing D and two guys that don't share the ball

[Xiao Yao You]

Orazio Cauchi: Virtus Bologna officially announced that Ekpe Udoh has signed a two-year deal with the club. (https://*********.com/social/) Udoh recently played in China.
– via Twitter paxer89 (https://twitter.com/paxer89)

[Xiao Yao You]

Dylan Hernandez: Japan’s basketball team upset Rudy Gobert and France in something called the SoftBank Cup. Rui Hachimura with 19 points in 29 minutes for Japan, (http://twitter.com/dylanohernandez/status/1416662076362149888) which will share a first-round group at the Olympics with Spain, Slovenia and Argentina.
– via Twitter (http://twitter.com/dylanohernandez/status/1416662076362149888)

[Xiao Yao You]

However, sources suggested that Bojan Bogdanovic and Joe Ingles were also bandied about as available if the Jazz could get a significant upgrade, (https://www.actionnetwork.com/nba/nba-free-agency-draft-rumors-bulls-big-spenders) which would be a major shakeup for the team, especially with Mike Conley headed to unrestricted free agency this summer.

– via Matt Moore @ Action Network (https://www.actionnetwork.com/nba/nba-free-agency-draft-rumors-bulls-big-spenders)



Clarkson makes the most sense to me. Someone might even be dumb enough to want the 6yh man of the year too!




Multiple league sources indicated this week that the Jazz were open to trade discussions. The consensus is that Derrick Favors is not only available, but Utah is eager to move him to clear his roughly $20 million in remaining salary (https://www.actionnetwork.com/nba/nba-free-agency-draft-rumors-bulls-big-spenders) (including a $10 million player option for 2022-23).

– via Matt Moore @ Action Network (https://www.actionnetwork.com/nba/nba-free-agency-draft-rumors-bulls-big-spenders)




Good luck with that one. What will you have to throw in to that deal to make it happen? The fact that they blamed everything on Bradley and thought Favors was the answer to begin with says everything about this organization

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463707/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-jared-butler/


Weaknesses: Butler lacks elite length, standing 6’3 with just a 6’4 wingspan. While his shorter arms seem to give him better control on his dribble and a more compact shooting motion, he may struggle to finish near the rim in the NBA.



non Wizard length

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463689/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospects-ayo-dosunmu/


Strengths: Dosunmu’s physical profile is what initially jumps off the page standing 6’5 in shoes with a strong 6’10 wingspan. In a league that continues to trend towards positional versatility on both ends of the floor, Dosunmu has the type of length that could fill a variety of roles in the NBA.



Wizard length

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463678/making-sense-of-latest-jazz-rumors/


In the report, Moore wrote that the Jazz are anxious to move Derrick Favors just one year after signing him to a three-year, nearly $30 million contract. Favors, who turned 30 just last week has considerable wear on his tires after joining the NBA as a 19-year-old.



Should be obvious. Clarkson and Hughes too


First, on a simple cost to production ratio, moving Favors makes the most sense for the Jazz if they are looking to cut salary. Outside of a few strong performances in the first round of the playoffs, Favors looked like a replacement-level reserve for most of the season.



and you could have paid Bradley for that and got the starting PF they desperately need


As it turned out, Gobert played 71 of the team’s 72 games and signed a contract extension with the Jazz in December, limiting Favors value.



Gobert healthy. Big surprise! :facepalm


With the number of high-priced deals already on the Jazz books, young players on cheap contracts should be a premium for the team, and the best way to acquire those players is through the draft. Would the Jazz be willing to give up another draft pick, knowing they likely won’t have their first-round pick next season to get out of Favors deal?



more young players that COTY won't play?


If Conley leaves, the Jazz would be hard-pressed to find a better point guard option than Ingles in the draft or free agency. Ingles has proven throughout his career, including in the Jazz latest playoff run that he’s more than capable of playing starting minutes on a good playoff team.



regardless of Conley who they getting better than Ingles coming off his best season?


Similarly, Bogdanovic proved to be a viable second scoring option for the Jazz when they were playing without either Conley or Mitchell in the last two seasons. The Croatian was nearly an all-star two seasons ago as Conley struggled to find his footing with the Jazz. This past season he showed his ability to handle a huge scoring load when Conley and Mitchell missed games late in the schedule.



nearly an all star? :lol


Ultimately, the only major move the Jazz could pursue from Moore’s report before they have a better understanding of Conley’s future would be attempting to trade Favors on draft night. Otherwise, Conley remains the team’s ultimate domino in their offseason plans.



Clarkson. Move Bojan to 6th man role

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/20/22575002/2021-nba-draft-coverage-quentin-grimes-houston-kansas


Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 next May), 6’5” with a 6’8” wingspan and 8’5” standing reach, 205 pounds



non Wizard approved wingspan


…but could he contribute right away?

Posted by l3uddyh011y (https://www.sbnation.com/users/l3uddyh011y) on Jul 20, 2021 | 8:59 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/20/22575002/2021-nba-draft-coverage-quentin-grimes-houston-kansas#542621082)



did he go to Duke?

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: The @Utah Jazz have promoted Marquis Newman to Director of Pro Personnel, filling the position left empty by Dave Fredman last month (https://*********.com/social/). #takenote kslsports.com/463768/jazz-pr…

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



Hadn't even heard about Fredman. He still with them? Been around since New Orleans I think

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463778/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospects-joshua-primo/


Primo is the youngest player in the draft, not turning 19 until Christmas Eve. Despite his youth, the Alabama product stands 6’5 while weighing 190 lbs and sporting a 6’9 wingspan.



Wizard might approve


Furthermore, Primo never had more than three assists in any game as a freshman. With his ability to space the floor, the guard should have had games where he moved the ball around the perimeter to other shooters or attacked closeouts leading to easy baskets for his bigs and accidentally recorded four or more assists in any one game.



assists aren't as plentiful in college

[Xiao Yao You]

On Thursday, the Jazz will hold an important pre-draft workout, league sources tell The Athletic. The participants, according to sources, will include Quentin Grimes, a 6-foot-5 guard out of Houston, David Duke, a 6-5 point guard from Providence, and Matt Mitchell, (https://theathletic.com/2722078/2021/07/22/jazz-set-to-get-close-look-at-key-draft-prospects-as-part-of-important-offseason/) a 6-6 small forward from San Diego State.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2722078/2021/07/22/jazz-set-to-get-close-look-at-key-draft-prospects-as-part-of-important-offseason/)




(https://*********.com/storyline/draft-workouts/) Grimes is someone the Jazz like at No. 30. Mitchell, according to sources, has had more than 10 workouts and is a riser up the boards who could find himself selected in the second round. (https://theathletic.com/2722078/2021/07/22/jazz-set-to-get-close-look-at-key-draft-prospects-as-part-of-important-offseason/) With the rise of P.J. Tucker types throughout the league, Mitchell’s two-way skill set as an undersized power forward could land him a role in the league. Duke is an older prospect as well, was one of the best point guards in the Big East, and someone who has nice size and athleticism for a point guard.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2722078/2021/07/22/jazz-set-to-get-close-look-at-key-draft-prospects-as-part-of-important-offseason/)






The workout is important because the Jazz have wanted to get a close look at Grimes. Other candidates at No. 30 for the Jazz, according to sources, include Bones Hyland of VCU, Ayo Dosunmu from Illinois, Miles McBride out of West Virginia, Herb Jones from Alabama, Joel Ayayi from Gonzaga, Josh Primo from Alabama and Jared Butler from Baylor (https://theathletic.com/2722078/2021/07/22/jazz-set-to-get-close-look-at-key-draft-prospects-as-part-of-important-offseason/).
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2722078/2021/07/22/jazz-set-to-get-close-look-at-key-draft-prospects-as-part-of-important-offseason/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463880/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospects-tre-mann/


Weaknesses: At 6’4, with a 6’4 wingspan and average athleticism, Mann likely doesn’t have the length or explosiveness to become an elite scorer in the NBA. He also weighs just 177 lbs, so he’ll need to add weight and strength before he’s able to hang with stronger guards in the NBA.



not Wizard approved


However, his average size and athleticism will likely limit his star potential and ability to have a major impact on the game defensively.



next

[Xiao Yao You]

The Athletic: Quentin Grimes, David Duke and Matt Mitchell will work out for the Jazz today, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell @Tony Jones. “Grimes is someone the Jazz like at No. 30. “
– via Twitter TheAthleticNBA (https://twitter.com/TheAthleticNBA)

[Xiao Yao You]

After winning the championship, Antetokounmpo has been getting well-deserved praise, especially from Bucks legend Oscar Robertson. One of the most difficult players to defend in the entire NBA, Robertson said that only Anthony Davis has the ability to shut Antetokounmpo down. “The only person I think has the size to have a decent chance at guarding Giannis is A.D. from the Lakers. No one else,” said Robertson on SiriusXM (https://www.slamonline.com/nba/oscar-robertson-says-anthony-davis-is-the-only-player-capable-of-shutting-down-giannis/).

– via SLAM (https://www.slamonline.com/nba/oscar-robertson-says-anthony-davis-is-the-only-player-capable-of-shutting-down-giannis/)




Rudy does fine against him. Too bad no one else on the Jazz defends and Conley was hurt

[Xiao Yao You]

Rylan Stiles: Josh Giddey says he looked up to Luka, Ben Simmons, and Joe Ingles. (http://twitter.com/Rylan_Stiles/status/1418621190596435978) Says teams will get an unselfish pass first guard if they draft Giddey. This is our second prospect to drop Ingles as a player they look up to.
– via Twitter (http://twitter.com/Rylan_Stiles/status/1418621190596435978)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/464022/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospet-herbert-jones/


Weaknesses: Despite showing improvement on his three-point shot during his final season, his ability to score from the perimeter will be an enormous concern for whichever team drafts him.



next

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/463967/utah-jazz-nba-mock-draft-round-up-3-0/



Regardless, Todd has an impressive frame, standing a full 6’10 with a 7’1 wingspan which should be able to carry more weight than his current 220 lbs. Mixed with a 35-inch vertical leap, the prep star has better physical tools than most players projected at the end of the first and into the second round.



not much of a wingspan unless he's a 3


Thor has an impressive frame standing 6’9, with a 7’3 wingspan, and 9’2 standing reach. He has elite height and length for the modern NBA wing who will be asked to defend multiple positions on the floor.



sounds more like it

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois


Last offseason the Jazz talked about getting defenders that don’t compromise spacing and then promptly drafted a non-shooting center. That choice turned out to be painful in the playoffs when the Jazz ended up with a lot of shooters and centers and not enough players to defend the perimeter. That’s why when I finally got to make my pick at #30, I was happy to pick Ayo Dosunmu.



Since center was the obvious position to take. They had plenty of options to defend the perimeter. COTY chose getting Lindsey fired over winning


Dosunmu is 6’4” with a 6’8” wingspan. He’s a long defender that can defend the point of attack and switch. Those physical tools combined with proven defensive ability should make him a player that acclimates quickly in the league.



average length


This offseason the biggest question for the Jazz is what will happen with Mike Conley. Whatever happens, Dosunmu should fit nicely with whatever the Jazz do. If Conley re-signs with the Jazz, Dosunmu can play minutes as a backup combo guard that will provide length and defense. If Conley leaves, Dosunmu looks like perfect secondary option to play off of Mitchell. As a rookie, Dosunmu likely isn’t going to to play right away, especially for Quin Snyder who hasn’t been willing to give a lot of minutes to any of the Jazz rookies from the last two seasons. Regardless, Dosunmu is 21 with multiple years of college experience. It’s not out of the question to think that he might be able to contribute to the rotation quickly if Conley leaves.



again what about the past how ever many years under COTY especially the last two makes anyone think they will draft anyone that will play? Did he go to Duke?


There were also a wide range of Centers available, but I wasn’t about to make that pick again.

the one position not to take. PG seems like the pick to me unless they think Forrest will develop a shot


According to NBA.com combine numbers it measured at 6’10.25" Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Jul 22, 2021 | 10:12 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542715446)



much better


Wow, that's crazy long for a guy who is 6'4".
Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 22, 2021 | 3:37 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542730957)



not really. Ricky 7'. Mitchell 6'10


Whoever they draft needs to be able to be the ninth, tenth or eleventh player in the rotation this season. If they can’t play this year, IMHO, the Jazz should package the pick/player with one or more of their other deep bench players for someone who can. Posted by RGeronimoP (https://www.sbnation.com/users/RGeronimoP) on Jul 22, 2021 | 12:35 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542723098)



whoever they pick he should be a Star. Need vets


DL screwed up last year picking Doke It was quite obvious we may or may not be able to retain Conley after this season. We should have picked someone to groom for a season under Conley.
Malachi Flynn, Tyrell Terry, Theo Maledon, Nico Mannion among others were still available as point guards.


Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Jul 22, 2021 | 1:10 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542724914)



Gobert and Bradley were FA's. They had 6 rookies who covered everything but a big center. Center was the obvious choice. PG whould have been next. Got Forrest as FA


Passing on the guys you mentioned (except Mannion) plus Jaden McDaniels and Desmond Bane, who could have actually helped this year, made it easy for Brother Smith to "allow" him to move into an advisory role. Posted by RGeronimoP (https://www.sbnation.com/users/RGeronimoP) on Jul 22, 2021 | 1:49 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542726705)



lots of guys could have helped but wouldn't have


1 – Trade the #30 pick and Matt Thomas to the Rockets for Danuel House, Jr.
2 – Trade Derrick Favors to Chicago for Tomas Satoransky.
3 – Sign DeMarcus Cousins to a veterans minimum contract or use the Bi-Annual Exception.
4 – Sign Bobby Portis using the taxpayer Mid-Level Exception.
5 – Let Conley walk.

They would start Mitchell, O’Neale, Ingles, Bogdanovic and Gobert. Satoransky, Clarkson, House, Portis and Cousins are the next five in the rotation, and you still have, Forrest, Brantley, Oni, Hughes, Morgan and Azubuike to fill out the back end of the roster. If my calculations are correct, the approximate salaries for 15 players would be around $146MM. Not ideal, I know, but closer to realistic than if they have to pay Conley @$20MM.

Just a thought.
Posted by RGeronimoP (https://www.sbnation.com/users/RGeronimoP) on Jul 23, 2021 | 2:58 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542770449)



why would the Bulls do that? Cousins! :roll: Still no starting PF. Cousins sucks and Clarkson remains. Why would Brantley and Morgan want to be on the team where the coach doesn't think they can help?


Donovan Mitchell is our PG of the future. Every time he is forced to play PG, we start debating if he is a superstar. His numbers explode when he has the ball in his hands.

What we need is a long shooting guard to pair with Mitchell in the backcourt. Or maybe that’s Royce, Bogey/Jingles at Small Forward, and what we really need is a defensive PF who can shoot. With Gobert at Center, that would be a big lineup.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 22, 2021 | 3:45 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/22/22587919/sb-nation-blogger-mock-draft-the-utah-jazz-select-ayo-dosunmu-30th-illinois#542731203)



might as well make Clarkson the backup pg if we want someone that doesn't pass at the position

[Xiao Yao You]

Mike Mazzeo: JT Thor has worked out with 11 teams: Indiana, Charlotte, Memphis, Houston, Boston, San Antonio, Chicago, New York, Brooklyn, Atlanta and New Orleans. (https://*********.com/social/) He also has an interview slated with Utah
– via Twitter MazzNYC (https://twitter.com/MazzNYC)

[Xiao Yao You]

JD Shaw: Kyle Castlin will play summer league with the Jazz, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell @HoopsRumors. Castlin played 11 games with the team’s G League affiliate in the 2019-20 season.

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




don't remember him being anything special but with two teams to fill I guess you can't expect much

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/23/22588996/utah-jazz-insiders-newsletter-giannis-antetokounmpos-miracle-free-throw-night-cemented-greatness


Technically, yes the Jazz have the biannual exception (BAE) available to be used. But, the Jazz are obviously hoping to re-sign Mike Conley, which would put the Jazz’s total salary above the tax apron for the season. At that point, the Jazz would not have the BAE available. Also, even if the team is not able to re-sign Conley, they wouldn’t want to be hard capped at the apron by using the BAE. So, while they technically could use the BAE, they will not.



another great reason to try and shed Clarkson and Favors salaries. Those two especially hurt. Hughes guaranteed roster spot as well

[Xiao Yao You]

Toronto, for example, could offer a package centered on the No. 4 selection and Pascal Siakam, who’s considered available for trade by sources around the league. (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946317-sources-bradley-beal-considering-trade-request-before-nba-draft) The Raptors have been categorized as one of the most active teams in predraft trade chatter, exploring all avenues from swapping their pick in a deal for an All-Star such as Beal or Damian Lillard to trading back and recouping more draft capital to embrace a post-Kyle Lowry rebuild.

– via Jake Fischer @ Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946317-sources-bradley-beal-considering-trade-request-before-nba-draft)




Clarkson/Favors/Hughes/picks/cash?

[Xiao Yao You]

When was the first time you got in contact with the Nigerian basketball federation to wear the D’Tigers’ jersey? Miye Oni: We have been in contact and talks with them since I was like 17-years-old. I have a great relationship with the federation, and I have always expressed my goal of playing for the national team and represent Nigeria at the highest level. (http://www.fiba.basketball/olympics/men/2020/news/miye-oni-s-rising-talent-helping-d-tigers-lift-nigeria-s-olympic-hoops-hopes) I am proud of being a Nigerian basketball player, and it’s a dream come true to be called to represent my country. This is one of the goals I have in my career, and I am happy to be able to do so. I am going to show the staff that I can help. I will do everything to bring Nigeria to the highest level and put it between the powerhouses of basketball.

– via FIBA (http://www.fiba.basketball/olympics/men/2020/news/miye-oni-s-rising-talent-helping-d-tigers-lift-nigeria-s-olympic-hoops-hopes)




Precious Achiuwa, Gabe Vincent, Jordan Nwora, Josh Okogie and many more. The young guns are taking over the D’Tigers! Miye Oni: (Laughs). Every guy is going to be very important for the team, and we will play as one, we will defend as one, no matter what. We have a lot of talent, and it’s just the beginning of something great if you want my opinion. We have talents in every position, guys that played in international competitions before and have been doing very well so I am so excited about what’s coming next. We are building a fantastic team. We are ambitious and we want to write great pages on Nigeria’s basketball history (http://www.fiba.basketball/olympics/men/2020/news/miye-oni-s-rising-talent-helping-d-tigers-lift-nigeria-s-olympic-hoops-hopes).
– via FIBA (http://www.fiba.basketball/olympics/men/2020/news/miye-oni-s-rising-talent-helping-d-tigers-lift-nigeria-s-olympic-hoops-hopes)







Miye Oni: The goal is to have a great tournament and the dream is to win a gold medal. Many teams can get to the medals spot, and we want to be part of the discussion too. (http://www.fiba.basketball/olympics/men/2020/news/miye-oni-s-rising-talent-helping-d-tigers-lift-nigeria-s-olympic-hoops-hopes) We are young, but we have a lot of ambition. We are eager to make our compatriots proud and to show the world that Nigeria is a very competitive team. They did well in China at the previous FIBA Basketball World Cup, and we want to keep showing that we are a team that counts on the main stage, and that will count from now on at the highest level.
– via FIBA (http://www.fiba.basketball/olympics/men/2020/news/miye-oni-s-rising-talent-helping-d-tigers-lift-nigeria-s-olympic-hoops-hopes)

[Xiao Yao You]

Donatas Urbonas: Zalgiris Kaunas in advanced talks with former No. 7 overall pick Emmanuel Mudiay, (https://*********.com/social/) per sources.
– via Twitter Urbodo (https://twitter.com/Urbodo)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz are known to be one of the few teams actually searching to move playoff-tested talent. Retaining Mike Conley is an offseason priority, sources said, and the Jazz have held numerous discussions with teams around the league about offloading salary to create room for Conley in free agency (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946349-nba-draft-week-brings-urgency-to-trade-talks-latest-ben-simmons-buzz).

– via Jake Fischer @ Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946349-nba-draft-week-brings-urgency-to-trade-talks-latest-ben-simmons-buzz)





League personnel most often mention Joe Ingles as the Jazz wing to watch, and Bojan Bogdanovic and Royce O’Neale are also considered available for trade (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946349-nba-draft-week-brings-urgency-to-trade-talks-latest-ben-simmons-buzz) as Utah narrows its focus towards building a contender around Donovan Mitchell. The Jazz are also open to discuss trading their No. 30 pick, sources said.

– via Jake Fischer @ Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946349-nba-draft-week-brings-urgency-to-trade-talks-latest-ben-simmons-buzz)




good luck building a contender around Mitchell and Clarkson

[Xiao Yao You]

The Jazz have the 30th pick in the NBA draft, but using that pick isn’t their only option (msn.com) (https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/the-jazz-have-the-30th-pick-in-the-nba-draft-but-using-that-pick-isn-t-their-only-option/ar-AAMy4EB?ocid=winp1taskbar)



For example, the Jazz could put together the 30th pick and Derrick Favors in exchange for a player that could help the roster, in order to clear a roster spot, or to turn around and trade what they get back for something even better.


more picks to get rid of their trash!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/25/22586051/the-utah-jazz-have-the-30th-pick-in-the-nba-draft-but-using-that-pick-isnt-their-only-option


That’s not to say that a player who is ready now can’t be found, but fans should be prepared for the possibility that any draft pick could end up being a project and not an answer to immediate problems.



but the media keeps pushing that narrative despite the fact under Snyder no one has been ready to help immediately. Some were by the end of the season and others could have and COTY wouldn't play them. Now if they went to Duke OTOH...


The Jazz don’t have many future assets. They owe first- and second-round picks to multiple teams over the next few years and not having assets to either package or use makes things a little difficult.



and will have to give up even more to dump Favors. Hopefully the new GM stops this nasty trend of signing guys to bad contracts


The Jazz could fill an open roster spot with a player on a veteran minimum deal once free agency opens on Aug. 2, so packaging the 30th pick and trading it away might just be a way to make room for other transactions to be made.



or they could throw guaranteed contracts to guys like Hughes that have never made any sense

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/25/22593705/utah-jazz-news-and-notes-mike-conley-staying-and-the-jazz-front-office-making-moves-nba-offseason


However, sources suggested that Bojan Bogdanovic and Joe Ingles were also bandied about as available if the Jazz could get a significant upgrade, which would be a major shakeup for the team, especially with Mike Conley headed to unrestricted free agency this summer.



Clarkson, Favors and Hughes are the first guys I'd look to move. Depending on what the roster looks like after that maybe others. Bojan to Clarkson's role. Ingles into a smaller role.


Two executives flatly countered that this week, however, saying the Jazz had indicated in no uncertain terms that they were planning to “run it back” with the core from this season.



that sounds more like the Jazz which would be disappointing. The one hope is that the new owner isn't the Miller's


It’s an interesting rumor and quite possible with Justin Zanik now running things now that Dennis Lindsay is taking a consultant role.



how much has Zanik had to do with the moves since he became GM? Favors, Clarkson and Hughes were awful signings

[Xiao Yao You]

Chris Haynes: After being pursued by multiple teams, former Phoenix Suns head coach Earl Watson is finalizing a deal to join the Toronto Raptors coaching staff, (https://*********.com/social/) league sources tell @YahooSports. Devin Booker credited Watson for his accelerated development. pic.twitter.com/I1FQYpBkmr
– via Twitter ChrisBHaynes (https://twitter.com/ChrisBHaynes)

[Xiao Yao You]

Darren Wolfson: Doug McDermott and George Niang among a handful of free agents the Wolves have interest in (https://open.spotify.com/episode/3BYeYIrPyybSkMQhAr9DKZ).
– via Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/3BYeYIrPyybSkMQhAr9DKZ)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/464378/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-miles-mcbride/


McBride is an undersized 6’1 guard but carries a nearly 6’9 wingspan which allowed him to carve out a niche as a strong defender in two seasons at West Virginia.



Wizard approved

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/464362/report-jazz-may-be-willing-to-trade-veteran-for-draft-picks/


Royce O’Neale, Jordan Clarkson, Joe Ingles, and Bojan Bogdanovic were all important members of the Jazz roster that finished with the best record in the NBA last season. Each player makes between $8.5 and $18.7 million next season and could give the Jazz financial relief in a trade that brings back a first-round draft pick.



Clarkson, Favors and Hughes


As a result, last year’s pick Udoka Azubuike is the only player on the Jazz roster on a cost-controlled rookie contract. Devoid of more established young talent, acquiring additional picks on Thursday night could clear salary-cap space to re-sign Conley while adding much-needed youth to the roster.



Hughes. Oni and Morgan I think might still have non guaranteed years left on theirs as well

[Xiao Yao You]

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/263461/Mavericks-To-Pursue-Kyle-Lowry-Mike-Conley-Jr

[Xiao Yao You]

League executives believe Conley is most likely to stay in Utah, (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31891612/nba-free-agency-2021-shaped-point-guard-movement) with the Jazz investigating the possibility of reducing payroll to make room next to Donovan Mitchell’s new max contract coming onto the books. The Jazz have the 30th pick and could use that as incentive to offload salary if needed.
– via Brian Windhorst @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/31891612/nba-free-agency-2021-shaped-point-guard-movement)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Mavericks are also considered to be a possible landing spot for Jazz guard Mike Conley, (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946416-latest-trade-buzz-on-ben-simmons-bradley-beal-andshai-gilgeous-alexander) although there’s a strong belief around the league that Utah will be successful in its attempts to shed salary and offer Conley a substantial deal.

– via Jake Fischer @ Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946416-latest-trade-buzz-on-ben-simmons-bradley-beal-andshai-gilgeous-alexander)




they can offer him a deal regardless if they shed salary. Rather the owner wants to pay is the question. Favors, Clarkson and Hughes

[Xiao Yao You]

Keith Smith: Rodney Hood’s contract with the Toronto Raptors will guarantee for $10,851,246 if he’s not waived today (https://*********.com/social/).

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




at least they aren't paying him

[Xiao Yao You]

The Jazz remain engaged in talks on trading the No. 30 pick to send Derrick Favors’ salary elsewhere, (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946416-latest-trade-buzz-on-ben-simmons-bradley-beal-andshai-gilgeous-alexander) sources said.

– via Jake Fischer @ Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2946416-latest-trade-buzz-on-ben-simmons-bradley-beal-andshai-gilgeous-alexander)




give up a 1st just to get rid of him :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

On Sunday, ESPN reported “the Jazz reportedly have some luxury tax concerns” and may look to move a veteran like Joe Ingles for a pick. The Action Network’s Matt Moore said the Jazz are “eager” to move Derrick Favors and would attach this pick to do so. League sources have told me the same. (https://nbadraft.theringer.com/mock-draft) If Utah elects to retain this selection, or add another, Sharpe is a perfect target. He’s a tough big who could back up Rudy Gobert and provide some small-ball 5 potential with his versatility.

– via nbadraft.theringer.com (https://nbadraft.theringer.com/mock-draft)



took a center last year. A rookie won't play

[Xiao Yao You]

Bobby Marks: Toronto had until 5PM ET. on Tuesday to make a decision on the $10,851,246 contract for 2021/22. The guaranteed date has now been pushed back to August 3. (https://*********.com/social/) The guaranteed dates of Baynes, Boucher, Watson, Bembry and now Hood are after FA begins.
– via Twitter BobbyMarks42 (https://twitter.com/BobbyMarks42)

[Xiao Yao You]

The stars continue to come out to Wild Card Gym to take a peek at Sen. Manny Pacquiao as he prepares for his upcoming bout with Errol Spence Jr. On Saturday (Sunday, Manila time), Pacquiao had a star-studded group of Fil-Am guests headlined by Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson. (https://www.philstar.com/sports/2021/07/25/2115067/jordan-clarkson-apldeap-visit-pacquiao-wild-card) Clarkson was joined by music artists Apl.de.Ap and J. Rey Soul — both of whom have Filipino lineage — of the Black Eyed Peas.
– via Luisa Morales @ philstar.com (https://www.philstar.com/sports/2021/07/25/2115067/jordan-clarkson-apldeap-visit-pacquiao-wild-card)




A sign addressing systemic racism was recently removed from the Whitefish Bay Public Library grounds following vocal criticism from some in the community — including former Milwaukee Bucks player Steve Novak. (https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2021/07/26/whitefish-bay-library-removes-sign-addressing-systemic-racism/8016856002/) The sign, which was placed in a rock garden display outside the library by Bay Bridge Wisconsin — a group that focuses on “raising awareness of racial and cultural bias in our community” — described its vision for the North Shore suburb.
– via Mary Spicuzza and Eddie Morales @ Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel (https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2021/07/26/whitefish-bay-library-removes-sign-addressing-systemic-racism/8016856002/)






“There is an offensive sign posted in front of the public library that incorrectly generalizes our community. It says that Whitefish Bay recognizes systemic racism,” Novak, who works as an analyst for the Bucks on Bally Sports Wisconsin (formerly Fox Sports Wisconsin), wrote in a June 8 email (https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2021/07/26/whitefish-bay-library-removes-sign-addressing-systemic-racism/8016856002/) to Nyama Reed, the library’s director. “What group has taken the liberty of speaking for our community in such a hateful, damaging and inaccurate way?”
– via Mary Spicuzza and Eddie Morales @ Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel (https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/2021/07/26/whitefish-bay-library-removes-sign-addressing-systemic-racism/8016856002/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: The Oklahoma City Thunder are not expected to extend a qualifying offer to center Tony Bradley, (https://*********.com/social/) League Sources tell The Athletic, making him an unrestricted free agent. Bradley, a former Jazz, is expected to have multiple teams interested in him on the open market

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




nice cheap backup. Who could use one of those? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

5 free agents who could help the Jazz (msn.com) (https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/5-free-agents-who-could-help-the-jazz/ar-AAMD0A6?ocid=winp1taskbar)


Nicolas Batum

why would he want to sit at the end of COTY's bench?



The Jazz’s most glaring weaknesses were exposed during their second-round playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers. The need for a small-ball five, versatility and to be able to win front-court battles in space were all things made clear when battling against the likes of Nicolas Batum. What better way to address those weaknesses than to go get the man who made you pay for having them.


their biggest weakness is no 4, 2 gunners that don't pass, too many guys that don't play any D and the coach


Raul Neto

stop with this shit already. He wasn't liked the first time he was here



Raul Neto (https://www.deseret.com/2019/12/2/20991704/raul-neto-misses-the-mountains-but-is-happy-with-his-new-role-in-philadelphia) spent a season in Philadelphia and then a season with the Washington Wizards. It probably wouldn’t be that hard to convince him to come back to a team with very little drama that would almost guarantee a trip to the playoffs.


unless he had no other offers he'd be stupid to come back even if it was more money


Solomon Hill

supposedly liked him before but that might have just been the Wizard



Here’s what we know. Payne was excellent for the Suns and has shown significant growth. He shot 44% from 3 last season and is a great ballhandler.


does he play D? Could have had him like the rest of the league



He might be willing to take a minimum deal to be on a contending team.


Jazz aren't contenders

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/464573/ingles-hits-huge-three-for-australia-against-italy/


The Boomers improved to 2-0 in Group B while both Italy and Germany have a loss apiece. Fellow Jazzman Miye Oni’s Nigerian team fell to 0-2 with a loss to Germany late Tuesday night.



so much for Nigeria being good

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/464459/utah-jazz-nba-draft-prospect-joel-ayayi/


Defensively Ayayi has good height at 6’5 and a wingspan around 6’7 which allows him to defend multiple positions in the backcourt and with added weight could potentially defend smaller forwards as well.



dino arms not Wizard approved

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/mock-offseason-part-1-more-mountain-mike/


So yeah, I’m talking about the type of fans that finds a good chunk of their entertainment from being an armchair general manager. If you’re reading this article you may be one of us. To be clear, I’m not an armchair general manager because I think I would do a better job — that is not the case despite occasional bemoaning like “what was Dennis thinking drafting a center?”. I realize there’s a layer of knowledge only the front office has access to and there are real limitations ESPN’s trade machine doesn’t account for. Mainly it’s just fun. Team building is an endlessly changing puzzle that’s never truly solved.



Both their rotation centers were free agents and out of their 6 rookies they had everything but a big center. Obvious pick :facepalm


The easy answer to what the Jazz need is: long, athletic wings that can shoot and defend multiple positions. This also happens to be the most sought-after player archetype in the league. The Jazz are not going to find a do-it-all star wing like Jaylen Brown or Paul George. But they will look for lesser versions that can help with perimeter defense while not killing their spacing.



a starting 4 that can protect the rim and perimeter, play small ball 5 and not kill the spacing


It’s possible to find these guys on the margins. A few examples:



Ersan could have helped the Jazz but didn't because of COTY


Finding an impact low-cost wing takes some luck. Craig’s shot was shaky enough that the World Champion Bucks were willing to let him go. PJ Tucker is 35 and looked completely uninterested in Houston. Batum was considered washed before his buyout. Any of those moves could’ve flamed out.



you mean like Favors, Clarkson and Hughes?


Ingles is a fantastic player, but has seen struggles in the last two playoffs. The reason may be that he’s been asked to do so much when injuries hit. I’d like to keep turning-age-34 Ingles well rested and add another ball-handler so Ingles can remain a secondary distributor.




agree


In the Clippers series the Jazz needed one more guy with a little zip. With Conley’s hamstring and Mitchell’s ankle injures, the team lacked another guy who could break the paint. On the flip side, Los Angeles had that guy in Reggie Jackson, and Utah couldn’t stop him.




they had Clarkson! Need defenders more to stop the Reggie's


The Scenarios

Dump Clarkson, Favors and Hughes and go from there


The Jazz cut ties with Matt Thomas and Juwan Morgan. Both have potential, but the Jazz need different contributions and roster spots. I could go either way with Georges Niang. He had a very solid regular season, spacing the floor and defending much better. Count me in as Niang believer even after a lackluster postseason. I’d be happy if the Jazz brought him back. In this scenario the Jazz don’t bring him back for a few reasons: 1) he may have priced himself out of Utah’s budget, 2) the Jazz need minutes to offer more defensive-oriented wings, and 3) the Jazz prioritize proven playoff track records and perimeter defense over Niang’s floor spacing. That said, losing Georges would be a sad thing — he’s a great dude and has earned a place in this league.



They need Morgan to bad the coach sucks. Niang is likely gone. Niang was one of the few guys defending


Jarrell Brantley or Trent Forrest both have potential, but the Jazz already have enough young talent to develop in Elijah Hughes, Udoka Azuibuke, and their 2021 first round pick. There’s also Miye Oni, who in this scenario the Jazz keep as one of their wing options. One area the Jazz could’ve addressed differently last season was emphasizing veterans over young talent at the end of their roster. Yes, they brought in Ersan Ilyasova and Matt Thomas, but neither contributed in the playoffs. None of the other young guys were able to help much when injuries hit the Jazz. In contrast, we saw Frank Kaminsky and the afore-mentioned Craig and Tucker play valuable minutes in the Finals. The Jazz could prioritize more proven talent while still maintaining some youth development.



Hughes sucks. Ideally you're not developing more than 4 guys. Two two ways and two not dressing also in Gleague. The rest vets. Brantley needs to go because COTY sucks. Forrest is good if they think he can shoot. None of the young guys got a chance to help you mean.


This leaves the roster at:

Mike Conley, Joe Ingles

Donovan Mitchell, Jordan Clarkson, Elijah Hughes
Royce O’Neale, Miye Oni
Bojan Bogdanovic
Rudy Gobert, Derrick Favors, Udoka Azubuike



3 that definitely should go


The biggest need is a backup power forward who will replace Niang’s minutes. The best tool is their taxpayer mid-level exception. Salt City Hoops will look more in depth at options for this player, but a few ideas are: Nic Batum, Rudy Gay, and Otto Porter Jr. Any of those could end up earning more than the available $5.9 million, but the Jazz are a contender and could lure a veteran chasing a ring like the did with Joe Johnson. Right now I’ll pick Rudy Gay, whose size would be a great fit for this roster.



starting 4


The Jazz could use their $5 million trade exception (which again, Salt City Hoops will explore later), but since they’re already spending so much they elect to use a veteran exception. This could be another wing defender like Trevor Ariza or Torrey Craig, or a journeyman point guard like Raul Neto. I’ll go with Neto, who is a fan favorite and coming off a career year. But I’m tempted to just use this one more wing and resolve the point guard situation later with the last roster spot if needed.



when was Neto anyone's favorite but me? Need to COTY proof the roster. He doesn't like Neto


Utah retains flexibility. They can make a trade, or use their final roster spot later in the season if needed. If disaster strikes, they can try to shed money at the trade deadline.



disaster i.e. Gobert going down

[Xiao Yao You]

For Utah, the challenge is making a move for the roster that, in conjunction with the upcoming free agency, vaults the team squarely into title contention. And that probably won’t be easy with the assets the Jazz have. League sources tell The Athletic that All-Star point guard Mike Conley is likely to stay with the Jazz once free agency opens, but the price tag won’t be a cheap one. (https://theathletic.com/2735306/2021/07/28/spinning-through-the-utah-jazzs-options-in-the-nba-draft-and-beyond/) If that indeed comes to fruition, the Jazz will have to figure out how to fill the roster out and make improvements.

– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2735306/2021/07/28/spinning-through-the-utah-jazzs-options-in-the-nba-draft-and-beyond/)





The Jazz need wings. That much is certain. League sources indicate the Jazz like rising second-year player Hughes to the point where he could find his way in Utah’s rotation. (https://theathletic.com/2735306/2021/07/28/spinning-through-the-utah-jazzs-options-in-the-nba-draft-and-beyond/) The caveat is that Hughes needs to have a good showing in Summer League play, especially on the defensive end. The Jazz really like what he brings offensively. They want to see what he is able to bring on the other end of the floor.
– via Tony Jones @ The Athletic (https://theathletic.com/2735306/2021/07/28/spinning-through-the-utah-jazzs-options-in-the-nba-draft-and-beyond/)



need a starting 4. Hughes? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

JD Shaw: Justin Patton will play with the Knicks during the Las Vegas Summer League and Jazz during the Salt Lake City Summer League, (https://*********.com/social/) source tells @HoopsRumors.

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




now he has some talent if he can stay healthy

[Xiao Yao You]

Donatas Urbonas: The German League MVP Jaleen Smith, who recently worked out with Utah Jazz and Philadelphia 76ers, will join the Phoenix Suns Summer League team, (https://*********.com/social/) per sources. More on @BasketNews_com
– via Twitter Urbodo (https://twitter.com/Urbodo)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50213454/jazz-draft-guide-conleys-looming-contract-could-determine-what-the-jazz-do-on-draft-night-


Money moves aren't ever popular among the fan base, but the alternative might just be losing an All-Star. The fact is if Utah can re-sign Conley, it should — not just because he's coming off an All-Star campaign, but the Jazz don't have any means of replacing him. That makes it a pretty easy decision, but it's one that might lead to having to part with other players.



Clarkson, Favors and Hughes would be very popular for me


Could the Jazz use the No. 30 pick to entice a team to take on one of their bigger contracts — specifically Derrick Favors — in order to cut the tax bill down? That might be the dream scenario — albeit a painful one considering how beloved Favors is within the organization — with the Jazz likely hoping to gain some versatility on the defensive end after getting some holes exposed in the playoffs.



giving up a pick for what I thought was a horrible signing a year ago is a dream!


If that's not an option, Utah could dangle a more productive role player for a pick, as ESPN and The Ringer have both reported. That would help clean up the books while getting an asset in return; and if the Jazz bundle a player with the No. 30 pick, they could even move up in the draft to find a player more ready to contribute immediately or get back a veteran in return.



6th man of the year. Someone has to want the guy!


The draft is deep, and it's projected the Jazz will have some options to pick up a wing player they highly need at the end of the first round. Quentin Grimes, who developed into one of college basketball's premier 3-and-D wings at Houston last season, worked out for Utah last week, according to The Athletic, and could still be available at the end of the first round. He fits the mold of what the Jazz want: he gives great effort on defense and can shoot, but will he be ready to play immediately?



no one will be ready immediately. Some might be able to help them by the end of the year. Not what you look for in the draft


The Ringer (https://nbadraft.theringer.com/mock-draft?_ga=2.32456446.1536604658.1627495356-494071691.1613490109): Day'Ron Sharpe, F/C, North Carolina

Comment: "If Utah elects to retain this selection, or add another, Sharpe is a perfect target. He's a tough big who could back up Rudy Gobert and provide some small-ball 5 potential with his versatility."



a center?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/464627/utah-jazz-nba-draft-cheat-sheet/



Due to Rudy Gobert’s ongoing dominance and the presence of Derrick Favors, Udoka Azubuike, and Juwan Morgan, it seems highly unlikely that the Jazz would use another first-round pick to add a center in the draft.



seems that way but it is the Jazz!


One of the best scorers in the draft, Hyland stands 6’3 with a 6’9 wingspan and shot nearly 40 percent from the three-point line in two seasons at VCU.



Wizard approved!


Ayayi is one of the more unique draft prospects in recent seasons which is the reason for his drop to the bottom of the first round. He’s got good size at 6’5 with a roughly 6’7 wingspan and he can really shoot the ball.



not Wizard approved


Thor has as much upside as a defender as any perimeter defender late in the first round due to his combination of height and length. The freshman stands 6’9, with a 7’3 wingspan, and 9’2 standing reach which mixed with nimble feet allowed him to defend four positions in college.



Wizard approved


At 6’7, with a 7’0 wingspan, nimble feet, and above-average athleticism, Jones has the ability to line up anywhere on the floor defensively and give opposing teams trouble.



Wizard approved

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/28/22596008/utah-jazz-have-1-pick-in-this-years-2021-nba-draft-no-30-overall-what-will-they-do-with-it


In recent days, it seems that McBride’s stock has been rising a bit and it makes sense considering his skill set. Although he only stands at 6-foot-2, he has a 6-foot-9 wingspan and defensive lateral quickness that is wildly impressive.



Wizard approved

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/7/28/22589508/utah-jazz-jarrell-brantley-to-play-for-team-in-salt-lake-city-and-las-vegas-summer-leagues


Utah Jazz (https://www.deseret.com/utah-jazz) forward Jarrell Brantley (https://www.deseret.com/2021/4/14/22383642/despite-limited-opportunities-utah-jazz-two-way-player-jarrell-brantley-okc-thunder-nba-defense) isn’t sure what the future holds, but he knows there’s a chance that he’s not on the Jazz roster for the 2021-22 season.



for your sake I hope you find greener pastures. You're too good to be sitting while other guys don't produce


Brantley will be playing on the Jazz’s summer league teams but after that, there’s no guarantee of anything. Brantley is a free agent, but not one with a lengthy resume. He could be headed to another team or even overseas by the time the 2021-22 season starts and that’s OK with him.



all Gleague who showed he could play NBA level D in the few chances he got. He'll be fine


It’s a mentality that has benefited Brantley thus far, helping him to improve on both sides of the court, gain strength and see the results. In 33 games with the Salt Lake City Stars in the 2019-20 season, Brantley shot just 33.3% from 3-point range. Despite limited and often short opportunities last season with the Jazz, Brantley shot 42.9% from deep.



the one weakness in his game was shooting. COTY is an idiot!


“A lot of those guys, they were in my situation, they were in my shoes,” Brantley said. “Royce (O’Neale) went overseas, Joe (Ingles) was from overseas, he got cut from the Clippers, Bojan (Bogdanovic) didn’t get in the league till he was (25), Georges is still trying to find his way. There’s so many guys. Like, our whole roster I can learn from.”



Niang has found his way and was all Gleague too. The difference is he got a chance with the Jazz after that

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/the-draft-the-jazz-should-take-a-home-run-swing-tonight/


No matter where the Jazz draft their players, their goal should be the same: find the best available player that can help as soon as possible. That sounds easy enough in theory, but the draft code hasn’t been cracked by any NBA decision makers. Several players drafted in the lottery will never play meaningful minutes in the league, and a handful of picks in the 30s or 40s should become rotation players. If you are a Jazz fan, I suggest that you don’t look at the team’s draft history. From Enes Kanter to Nigel-Williams-Goss, there have been so many misses. The real draft day wins were trades for Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert but those picks alone make up for dozen’s of strikeouts. But let’s put it this way: there is only one Jazz player (Mitchell) playing major rotation minutes that was acquired on draft day in the last 6 years.



Kanter is still in the league though Jonas should have been the pick and Goss was a 2nd rounder they got a couple years out of. He actually looked good in camp last year


The Jazz are ready to contend for a title now, and they only have Donovan Mitchell under team control for 4 seasons. They need to put players on the floor that can help win right now. But is that a realistic expectation of a rookie?



under COTY no


If I knew the answer to that question, I would be working in a front office, but let’s just talk about the process the Jazz might go through in evaluation. Generally speaking, I think the Jazz tend to draft offensively skilled players and hope that they can defend at an NBA level. That’s true of Enes Kanter and Alec Burks; It’s the case with Trey Burke, Rodney Hood, Trey Lyles, Tony Bradley, Grayson Allen and Justin Wright Foreman. There isn’t even college tape of Elijah Hughes playing NBA style defense, but his offensive skills are so intriguing, that you wonder how much his defense mattered in his evaluation. My main critique of the last several Jazz picks, is that they draft players who lack athleticism and the tools to ever defend at an above average ability in the NBA. We have years and years of evidence that if you can’t defend at an NBA level, you just can’t play effectively in the post season. Full stop. We weren’t good enough defensively to beat the Clippers. Even with a healthy team, the unspoken assumption is that the Jazz would have been able to outscore their opponents.



some great length in there which was the main thing they looked at. Playing basketball was secondary. Hughes can't shoot the 3 either. Made little sense. Wright Forman was better. COTY making a move and Conley not being hurt would have made up for Mitchell and Clarkson's gunning and lack of D


The Jazz’s offseason needs are a backup point guard, a small ball center, especially if they move on from Derrick Favors, and wing defense (stop me if you’ve heard this one before). I personally don’t think you should ever draft for need. That leads to drafting Trey Burke when there are at least 2 hall of famers on the board. But you do have to also consider free agency. I will do a whole post later this week on the Jazz’s free agency prospects, but to summarize, there are a few useful centers and guards to be had around the veteran minimum, especially centers. The Jazz also have a $5 million traded player exception that I think could be used to obtain a third point guard. Given the dearth of defensive minded wings (https://saltcityhoops.com/big-wings-who-defend-shoot-are-in-short-supply/), who can guard 2 thru 4 in the league and given the number of such 6’6″-6’9″ athletes in the draft, I think the Jazz should look to take swings in that department. I mean, whatever they’ve been trying to do for the last decade has had, at best, average success. I’d take a flyer on athletes who maybe slide further down, or who played for Kentucky, or who just might need 1-2 years. I know that feels counterintuitive, but swings should be taken in the draft and the Jazz can bolster with free agency and trades. Besides, the Jazz need to be focusing on some rotational development of guys like Elijah Hughes, Udoka Azubuike and Miye Oni. One last thought: the biggest swings the Jazz have taken draft-wise in my lifetime were drafting Andrei Kirilenko and Rudy Gobert.



their needs are dumping Favors, Clarksona and Hughes and getting a starting 4 that could play small ball 5 and protect the rim and perimeter without killing spacing. Gobert wasn't a swing. He was considered a late 1st and that's what he was. Not sure about AK. Going for a guy that stayed in Russia for two years wasn't Jazz like for sure


Isaiah Todd– I get the concerns, but this guy is a long athlete who can absolutely shoot the ball. He would need time to develop in the G-League, but he has all the tools. Surprised that he has received no buzz this draft season.

sounds like a prospect


JT Thor– He would be a lottery pick next year, so get him one year ahead of his development and groom him. Can play next to Rudy with polish.



sounds good as well


Greg Brown– Pure athlete with some of the most vicious posters you will see in college basketball. Not sure he knows how to play the game, but that is why the Jazz brag about the best development coaching staff.



pass. Exum was an athlete that never showed he was an NBA player


Vrenz Bleijenbergh– You just need to youtube this guy and see it for yourself. He’s a 6’10” guard that plays in Antwerp and reminds me so much of Andrei Kirilenko that I need this guy in a Jazz uniform. Probably stays overseas for a year or two, but this guy is an NBA talent.



AK!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/29/22566390/2021-nba-draft-coverage-ayo-dosunmu


Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 next June), 6’5” with a 6’10” wingspan and 8’6” standing reach, 194 pounds



Wizard approved

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/29/22566389/2021-nba-draft-coverage-late-2nd-rounders-and-undrafted-prospects


Additionally, the Jazz scouting department has given the team significant players who were originally undrafted, from fan favorites Joe Ingles and Royce O’Neale to occasional contributors like Trent Forrest, Juwan Morgan, Chris Johnson, Elijah Millsap, and Ian Clark (that’s a throwback name!). Now under the leadership of Justin Zanik, who helped oversee many of these decisions, we will likely see the Jazz continue this trend, hopefully with positive results.

we have no idea what Zanik will bring. Hopefully their best GM ever which wouldn't be saying much



Physical: 22 years old (turns 23 next May), 6’7” with a 7’1” wingspan and 8’8” standing reach, 215 pounds



Wizard approved


Physical: 20 years old (turns 21 this October), 6’10” with a 7’1” wingspan and XX standing reach, 215 pounds



not AK like length or Wizard approved


Physical: 22 years old (turns 23 on July 28th of this year), 6’7” with a 6’9” wingspan and 8’9” standing reach, 232 pounds



not Wizard approved


Livers could immediately step into Georges Niang’s role in a limited capacity and be a threat from the corners while not giving up too much defensively against bench units. If Niang ends up taking a payday and leaving the Jazz, they will need depth with a bigger shooting forward in their current scheme, so Livers could fill that role (perhaps behind Juwan Morgan). I would not use a second round pick to pick Livers, but he would be a useful addition to the Stars and Jazz system as an immediate contributor with limited upside.



a 2nd rounder replacing Niang immediately? :facepalm


Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 this November), 6’0” with a 6’1” wingspan and 7’10” standing reach, 175 pounds



not Wizard approved


Physical: 21 years old (turns 22 this November), 6’9” with a 6’10” wingspan and 9’0” standing reach, 194 pounds



not Wizard approved


EJ’s upside lies with his insane size combined with an excellent shooting touch. He stands at just about 7 feet with a 7’8.5” wingspan and 9’6” standing reach, but also shot 40% from three on 4 attempts per game his senior season. He plays with an intense fire, blocking and dunking shots with abandon, looking incredibly fluid running up and down the court. So what’s the downside?



Wizard approved


Criminally underrated. Was on ACC All Defense team. He can shoot the outside shot. Has lots of moves inside. Can dunk on your head.

He may not even be drafted according to some projections. He could be a crazy steal for any team.

Senior season
17pts 8reb 2ast 1.5stl 1.5blk 53/41/65

Posted by Matt_Grbac (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Matt_Grbac) on Jul 29, 2021 | 8:17 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/29/22566389/2021-nba-draft-coverage-late-2nd-rounders-and-undrafted-prospects#543000347)


6’9 225 7’1 wingspan 38" vertical

not Wizard approved


If we are going to have some projects at the end of our bench, those are the type of guys I want. Not Matt Friggin’ Thomas and Trent Forrest. Those guys are 14/15th players whose ceiling is 12/13th.

Posted by Kira Argonova (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Kira%20Argonova) on Jul 29, 2021 | 8:30 AM (https://www.slcdunk.com/nba-draft/2021/7/29/22566389/2021-nba-draft-coverage-late-2nd-rounders-and-undrafted-prospects#543000930)



Forrest is good. Only question is his shooting. Thomas can shoot. Hughes is the head scratcher for me. 6 rookies was a head scratcher. COTY not playing anyone was a head scratcher

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/28/22566391/2021-nba-draft-coverage-joshua-primo


Physical: 18 years old (turns 19 this December), 6’5” with a 6’9” wingspan and 8’6.5” standing reach, 189 pounds



Wizard approved


But don’t think the Jazz can afford to take on a project right now. Somehow need to find a way to turn that pick (maybe move Favors/Ingles) into a player that contributes immediately.


Posted by Raiderfan35 (https://www.sbnation.com/users/Raiderfan35) on Jul 28, 2021 | 10:21 PM (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/7/28/22566391/2021-nba-draft-coverage-joshua-primo#542993320)



sure they can. COTY would only play 10 guys no matter what. that leaves 7 spots for projects

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/07/28/kentucky-forward-utah-jazz-summer-league/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/263490/Jazz-Likely-To-Re-Sign-Mike-Conley

[Xiao Yao You]

Hoop Central: Report: Lakers, Clippers, Celtics are among the teams “doing trade due-diligence” on Ricky Rubio, (http://twitter.com/TheHoopCentral/status/1420815480105836545) via @DWolfsonKSTP
– via Twitter (http://twitter.com/TheHoopCentral/status/1420815480105836545)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: Things I’m currently hearing: 1. The Jazz are open to moving the #30 pick tonight 2. There is a specific player that could be available that is giving the Jazz a bit of pause on moving said pick (they really like this player) (https://*********.com/social/) 3. The Jazz are active in trade discussions
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

[El Kabong]

Nothing happened yet. Wonder if the Ingles/Kuzma deal was just a backup if they couldn't get Westbrook?

[El Kabong]

#30 traded for #40 and 2 future 2nd rounders. Guess their guy was off the board, so remove the guaranteed money and trade down. Uninspiring.

[El Kabong]

Tony Jones saying the Jazz wanted Jared Butler at 30, traded down and got him at 40.

Apparently the whole moving up thing was for Butler, then got intel he'd slide.

[El Kabong]

Reported heart issue on Butler's medical the reason for him sliding.

[Xiao Yao You]

Nothing happened yet. Wonder if the Ingles/Kuzma deal was just a backup if they couldn't get Westbrook?

didn't hear about that one

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones saying the Jazz wanted Jared Butler at 30, traded down and got him at 40.

Apparently the whole moving up thing was for Butler, then got intel he'd slide.

needed a pg/combo guard and he sounds like a fit

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: Guards Joe Chealey and Dakota Mathias will play for the Utah Jazz summer league team, (https://*********.com/social/) League Sources tell The Athletic
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)




Shams Charania: The Utah Jazz are in serious talks on a deal to send center Derrick Favors to the Oklahoma City Thunder, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell me and @Tony Jones.
– via Twitter ShamsCharania (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: The @Utah Jazz announce that they have officially agreed in principle to acquiring Jared Butler for the 30th pick but make no mention of what the other two draft picks will be (https://*********.com/social/). Worth noting, the Grizzlies own their own second rounders in each of the next two drafts.
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: The @UtahJazz got terrific value in Jared Butler in the second round, but his medical concerns stretch beyond his heart condition (https://*********.com/social/). Apparently there was significant concern about the Baylor guard’s knees heading into the draft, which may have led to his draft night slide
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Justin Zanik on new @utahjazz owner Ryan Smith: “Ryan’s resources and commitment to spending are going to be at levels that we’ve never done with the Jazz.” (https://*********.com/social/)

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



not saying much

[Xiao Yao You]

Michael Scotto: The Utah Jazz have agreed to an Exhibit 10 deal with MaCio Teague (Baylor), (https://*********.com/social/) a league source told @*********.
– via Twitter MikeAScotto (https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto)

[El Kabong]

didn't hear about that one

Was supposedly Kuz and 17 for Ingles and 30.

[El Kabong]

Jazz salary dumping Favors to OKC with a 1st round pick attached for a 2nd rounder.

Preparing for a big tax bill and probably gonna have to give Conley in the $30 million range, rather than the $20-$25 million I'm guessing.

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz salary dumping Favors to OKC with a 1st round pick attached for a 2nd rounder.

Preparing for a big tax bill and probably gonna have to give Conley in the $30 million range, rather than the $20-$25 million I'm guessing.


think I've read 15-25 for Mike. Need to get rid of Clarkson too!

[Xiao Yao You]

Scott Agness: Former Pacers (and Mad Ants) guard Naz Mitrou-Long is joining Germani Brescia in Italy after four seasons in the G League. (https://*********.com/social/) He was a on two-way contract in 2019-20.
– via Twitter ScottAgness (https://twitter.com/ScottAgness)

[Xiao Yao You]

hard to imagine them trading Ingles

[Xiao Yao You]

JD Shaw: Former NC State big man DJ Funderburk (@TooEvsy4) has committed to play with the Jazz during the Salt Lake City Summer League next month, per league sources (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter JShawNBA (https://twitter.com/JShawNBA)

[Xiao Yao You]

Joe Mussatto: Thunder officially announces the trade for Derrick Favors and a future first. OKC will send back a 2027 second and cash. (https://*********.com/social/) pic.twitter.com/48OHm2D1FH

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



hated the signing. Giving up a first to get rid of the contract. Could have had Bradley cheap and improving and signed the PF they've needed the past two years:cry:

[Xiao Yao You]

Marc Stein: The Jazz will be pressing hard to re-sign Mike Conley, league sources say, and are preparing an offer estimated in the three-year, $75 million range. (https://*********.com/social/) More coming soon in my This Week In Basketball column you can get directly by signing up here: marcstein.substack.com
– via Twitter TheSteinLine (https://twitter.com/TheSteinLine)





Chris Haynes: Free agent point guard Emmanuel Mudiay — the No. 7 pick in the 2015 Draft and only 25 — intends to play Summer League for the Portland Trail Blazers, (https://*********.com/social/) league sources tell @YahooSports.
– via Twitter ChrisBHaynes (https://twitter.com/ChrisBHaynes)

[Xiao Yao You]

Oklahoma City further added to its stockpile of future first-round picks as the Utah Jazz agreed to send a future No. 1 and center Derrick Favors to the Thunder for a future second-round pick, (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31919563/oklahoma-city-thunder-get-future-first-round-nba-draft-pick-derrick-favors-utah-jazz-sources) sources told ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Friday. Before the move, the Thunder already had 12 first-round picks above and beyond their own — some of which they can swap — over the next five drafts. Oklahoma City traded the No. 16 pick in Thursday’s NBA draft to the Houston Rockets for two future first-rounders — in 2022 (via the Pistons) and 2023 (via the Wizards). The Rockets then used the selection to pick Alperen Sengun.
– via ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31919563/oklahoma-city-thunder-get-future-first-round-nba-draft-pick-derrick-favors-utah-jazz-sources)

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: Guards Joe Chealey and Dakota Mathias will play for the Utah Jazz summer league team, (https://*********.com/social/) League Sources tell The Athletic
– via Twitter Tjonesonthenba (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

[El Kabong]

think I've read 15-25 for Mike. Need to get rid of Clarkson too!
Just saw we're supposedly offering 3/$75 million.

Locked into the Mitchell/Gobert/Conley trio for 3 years and see if you can put the pieces around them and hope Conley doesn't completely break down physically in that time.

[Xiao Yao You]

Just saw we're supposedly offering 3/$75 million.

Locked into the Mitchell/Gobert/Conley trio for 3 years and see if you can put the pieces around them and hope Conley doesn't completely break down physically in that time.

you have to sign Conley. He's too good and can't be replaced. Obviously very risky. He's got to be able to play in May and June