2021 training camp/pre-season!

[Xiao Yao You]

that didn't take long!

[Xiao Yao You]

Justin Zanik says team is 100% vaccinatedThere was a bit of happiness and relief as Jazz general manager Justin Zanik announced it: The Utah Jazz are 100% vaccinated.


With differing COVID-19 protocols from state to state, that means things will be a bit easier as the Jazz begin to navigate the season – and save them potential headaches on road trips to places like New York, San Francisco and others where unvaccinated players may not be able to even play.
"I think it's every person's choice, but the fact that our players and our coaches and health performance and the entire organization chose to do that to protect each other," Zanik said. "You already know how high character guys are and how much they care about each other. It's a simple gesture between them, as well as their fans and communities. I am proud of them."


Rudy Gobert said that he took his time before deciding, and "won't judge" any player who chose to not to receive a vaccination. For Joe Ingles, he said it was a bit comforting to be able to go to his family after being in an environment that is "more or less" the safest it can be.



they're winners already! :applause:

[Xiao Yao You]

Derrick Alston probably makes Joe Ingles feel rather oldThe presence of the rookie from Boise State in camp might have one Jazz member feeling a bit old. How so?
Joe Ingles played against a Derrick Alston as he started his career in Australia, but that was Derrick Altson Sr.
"Joe's been really great with me because him and my dad played together in Australia," the younger Alston said. "So there's kind of a connection there. So he's been really helping me."



:lol

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/468921/derrick-favors-thanks-jazz-quin-snyder-teammates-fans-for-his-experience-in-utah/

too bad he wasn't Paul Millsap :cry:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/468904/utah-jazz-release-roster-for-2021-22-training-camp/

two staright years with less than 20. Is this just COVID related? Can't find enough guys that will vaccinate? You do have a sStars roster to think about as well.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/468662/24-the-salt-lake-city-stars/


However, with a healthy Trent Forrest, Elijah Hughes, Udoka Azubuike, and Justin James, and rookies Jared Butler, MaCio Teague, and Derrick Alston Jr., the Stars should field a more complete roster than they did last season.



more complete how? They had plenty of bodies last year. Hopefully better bodies. Forrest for starters

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/9/27/22696034/what-we-want-to-hear-and-see-out-of-jazz-media-day-and-training-camp


Of all the offseason moves, Rudy Gay’s free agency signing is the only serious candidate for impacting the playoffs.



hardly. Whiteside or someone needs to when Rudy isn't on the court. BFF. Butler... If Clarkson and Whiteside are out by the playoffs and COTY too it could only be better


Though as mentioned in the first sentence, we probably shouldn’t expect him to.



won't change unless there's a coaching change


Bogie on his offseason. His wrist is healthy and was able to work on his game for 2 months. Expecting to take advantage of mismatches thru some iso play. The injury made it a struggle to find his rhythm early last year.



Said team had great FA signings and definitely has the best bench in the league. Expects Quin to use to keep everyone fresh.




had a bench last year and refused to use it


Rudy on why joined the Jazz: Had played with Mike before; Q talked to him for 30 to 45 minutes on his role with the team; and really liked the culture from what he saw. Wants to be a part of something. Still hungry. Needs a purpose at this stage of his career to keep going.




3 year guaranteed contract

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/9/26/22695627/the-utah-jazz-announced-their-training-camp-roster-for-the-2021-22-season-nba-jared-butler


The first thing I’ll be paying attention to is the play of Udoka Azubuike. The Jazz brought in Hassan Whiteside as their backup center and it is likely set, but maybe not in stone. Azubuike was impressive in his first summer league games. He was too much to handle for any opposing summer league center and showed why he garnered the interest of the Jazz’s former general manager, Dennis Lindsey. He still has some polishing to do on his game but if he’s given a fair shot, he could definitely slide into that backup role at some point during the season. The Jazz front office and coaching staff have obviously not been on the same page for years now and so seeing Udoka thrive would be a welcome sign for a coaching staff that hasn’t successfully developed a drafted player since Donovan Mitchell.



ideally by the trade deadline he makes Hassan expendable


This is another matchup around the edges of the Jazz roster that should be a fun one. Trent Forrest was fantastic in summer league. It was clear he was beyond the talent level of the other players on the floor pretty quickly. The only issue was still the 3-point shot. If he can get that to fall with more regularity, and he may never do that, he has a chance to be a very nice NBA rotation player. The player he’ll be competing against will definitely be Jared Butler.



Oni?


Butler comes in as a steal in the draft. Questions about his health lead to him dropping but he was slated as a late lottery pick/late first round pick in most mock drafts. If he’s healthy, Butler looks to be a very nice option for the Jazz as a third guard. He can handle the ball, drive and shoot it (47% FG and 41.6% 3PT in college). He’s also got good size at the position at 6’3.75” with shoes. Theoretically, he’s the perfect player to play off of Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley. The only issue is we haven’t seen it. Butler was held out of summer league and it would have been nice to see what he can do. Training camp will be the first time we hear how Butler fits on an NBA court against NBA talent. The Jazz will likely always give Butler the edge because of his talent level, but he needs to outplay Forrest to solidify any sort of solid rotation minutes. If he’s as good as so many draft experts said, that should be no problem.



don't see how outplaying a non rotation player gets you rotation minutes? The perfect player opposite Conley/Mitchell would have size like O'Neale or Ingles

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/27/utah-jazz-best-signings-history/


Young NBA fans may know Bell primarily for his podcast work at The Ringer. Without question, Bell is an insightful and engaging NBA analyst, but he also had a productive NBA career worth remembering.



Another guy Sloan loved too much


Bogdanovic and his elite floor-spacing was a huge component of the formula that led to the Jazz’s immense regular season success. He can hardly be blamed for the team’s second round playoff collapse either, as he averaged 18.1 points per game while shooting an even-more-impressive 46.1% from deep on 6.9 attempts per game in last season’s playoffs.



D was there problem so plenty of blame to go around


He’s a perfect fit for this roster, and if the Jazz can make-good on their championship aspirations over the course of his tenure with the squad, he may end up looking better than the fourth-best free agency signing in franchise history.



the perfect fit would play the 4 so O'Neale doesn't have to


Green didn’t project as an All-Star caliber player when the Jazz acquired him through free agency that year. He was the 16th overall pick in the 1977 NBA Draft. He spent a single season with the Golden State Warriors before moving on to the Detroit Pistons, where he also only stuck for a year.



wouldn't exactly call him a free agent. He was playing in the CBA so technically he was but :facepalm


He was statistically underwhelming at both of those stops, and that trend actually carried over into Salt Lake City for a season. In Green’s first season with the Utah Jazz he produced a solid, but underwhelming 9.0 points, 5.0 assists and 1.6 steals per game.



you get a guy from the minors and he puts up those numbers you aren't underwhelmed :roll:


It’s hard to say what happened to Green over the 1980 offseason. If the Utah Jazz could mine history and figure out what it was, they’d bottle it, store it and give it to every player on their roster.



he was a high draft pick who finally figured it out and got a chance to play on a crappy team. Not much to figure out


That’s pretty good for a team featuring a guy who’d projected as a career backup running the point.



1st round pick who was out of the league. Career backup?


Given his aforementioned floor-spacing, that’s an impressive, modernized shot profile that any coach would be happy with in 2020-21. It’s enough to qualify Okur as the second-best free agency signing in Utah Jazz history.



if we're using Green who I wouldn't he's first


Boozer was an All-Star for the Utah Jazz that season, as well as the following one. Furthermore, his individual accomplishments translated into team success. In particular, 2006-07 was one of the finest seasons in Utah Jazz history, as the team finished with a 51-31 record and advanced to the Western Conference Finals.



too bad his backup was the better player

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/26/utah-jazz-predicting-stats-every-starter/


Here, we’re predicting a modest increase in Mitchell’s scoring output that is born purely out of his improvement as a player. We’re also anticipating a more significant increase in his assists per game. An improvement in that area would take Mitchell’s game to the next level: players who are a threat to both score and set-up teammates are more difficult to predict. Mitchell’s 5.2 per night were already a reasonably impressive figure from an off-guard, and he has the general offensive talent to increase that output.



that's what they need but of course he hasn't mentioned passing more


Like any NBA player, Bogdanovic’s play and statistics will inevitably regress at some point. The gamble here is that it won’t happen this season.



hopefully he ends up as 6th man and his stats plummet!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/every-nba-teams-predicted-win-total-for-2021-22-season?utm_source=RSS

Lakers over Jazz and Suns! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Rudy Gay, on why he chose the Jazz: “I’ve played with Mike before, and it’s always good to know a guy on the team.” Adds that Quin Snyder absolutely sold him during a 45-minute to hour-long conversation (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Mitchell, on the idea of load management: “Understanding the importance of longevity, of being there for the playoffs, I’m with it.” Said before his injury, he might have felt differently (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)





Sarah Todd: Donovan Mitchell joins Jordan Clarkson in urging people to get vaccinated “so we can get past this” (https://*********.com/social/)

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

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Whiteside said that Rudy Gobert was the first Jazz player to reach out to him after he signed. Said there are no issues between them. “I know I’m here to back him up.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50250620/the-jazz-are-fully-vaccinated--heres-why-thats-so-important


The Jazz announced a lot of moves throughout the organization Monday, with the major ones being that assistant general David Morway had stepped into an advisory role and vice president of performance health care Mike Elliott had left the organization. But even with those changes, Zanik's proclamation was the biggest news that came out of Monday's media day.



3 gm's now advisors? Is O'Conner still and advisor? Dell Demps back to the front office?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/9/27/22697692/takeaways-from-utah-jazz-media-day-2021-22-nba-season-donovan-mitchell


Donovan Mitchell’s frustration from the late pull before Game 1 against the Memphis Grizzlies (https://www.grizzlybearblues.com) was highly publicised and it’s now clear who he struggled with. The Jazz have made it a big point to do right by their young star guard. Bringing on Eric Paschal was one of the most recent moves. Now, by parting ways with Mike Elliot, it’s another clear sign the Jazz are trying to let Mitchell know they are on his side. It’s a good move by the Jazz.



bad move when players are dictating things. Why have doctors if they aren't allowed to do their jobs? Obviously the doctor was right in this case


It’s important to note that this comes from Justin Zanik. Does Quin Snyder feel the same way? The issue last season was the relationship between Dennis Lindsey and Quin Snyder and how toxic it became. Is the relationship between Zanik and Snyder better? We’ll find out. If Zanik and Snyder aren’t on the same page either, this season could go sideways.



exactly. None of it matters if COTY thinks otherwise


Snyder mentioned a 9-man rotation this season. Will there be frustration if during the season we don’t see Butler getting minutes?



if he shows he deserves them sure. Until then there's the Gleague


Zanik is right to be excited about Butler’s potential, he’s got a chance to be a really nice complementary piece to Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley. If Snyder has him glued to the bench and has games where the starters are playing late in the 4th quarter of blowouts, it’s going to be frustrating.



be frustrating if he's at the end of the bench instead of with the Stars


The Jazz are going to be a very good team this year and we’ll see if the changes they made can be the difference this year. It’s true that the Jazz have a window this year, possibly the best window they’ve ever had. If they don’t take advantage, it’s not clear if they will ever have this good of a chance again.



last year was probably their best chance. They matched up well with the Bucks. Too bad about COTY

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/28/utah-jazz-3-takeaways-media-day/


Butler is certainly in a position to fill a rotational need (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/10/utah-jazz-free-agency-3-guards-rotation/) for Head Coach Quin Snyder, if the young guard is up for the task.



what need it that? 10th man?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/27/utah-jazz-4-storylines-training-camp/2/


The Jazz will just be hoping that Conley Jr.’s body can do the same. If it can, there’s no ceiling on this team’s potential. Otherwise, advancement into the Western Conference Finals is very likely to be a height too lofty to reach.



his health is huge


If that’s not an option, could he find more assists per game for the Utah Jazz? He averaged a solid 5.1 per game over the 2020-21 season, but it does feel as if Mitchell has room to develop his playmaking vision and boost that number up by a digit or two. As exciting as growth in this, or any other area, would be for the Utah Jazz and their fans, it’s on the defensive side of the ball where Mitchell could use the most improvement.



be nice


Last season, his Defensive Box Plus/Minus (DBPM) was -0.6, and his Defensive Rating was 110. Neither of those marks are necessarily cause for embarrassment, but they aren’t figures to be proud of either. At 6’1, Mitchell may struggle to guard taller guards, but he does have a stout 215-pound frame to go with elite burst, quick twitch instincts and superb lateral quickness.



you forgot the length to guard anyone


This offseason, the Utah Jazz acquired two highly comparable players in Rudy Gay (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/03/utah-jazz-rudy-gay-agreed-deal-jazz/) and Eric Paschall (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/05/utah-jazz-grading-eric-paschall-trade/). The acquisitions were largely seen as a response to the lack of positional versatility that was on full display (https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nba/news/clippers-jazz-rudy-gobert-game-3/1hnqqj5z9yih51t4mv5uvn5ls0) in the Western Conference semi-finals against the Los Angeles Clippers. Both men project as solid solutions to that dilemma, able to backup the 4 position or suit up for small-ball 5 duties. The only question is which of these 2 similar players will Head Coach Quin Snyder prioritize?



only question does COTY have a clue? He had versatility last year. Chose not to use it


Whiteside, it’s been said, is not afraid to pursue basic counting stats. However, both Defensive Rating and VORP favored Azubuike last season. He posted numbers of 106 and 0.0 in each category last season, compared to 111 and -0.1 for Whiteside last season.



0 quality minutes for Udoka :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Noah Levick: From Doc Rivers: -Still expects Ben Simmons to be here at some point (https://*********.com/social/) -More players should feel free to push ball up court without him -Second unit enjoyed playing with Niang, his shooting
– via Twitter NoahLevick (https://twitter.com/NoahLevick)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz have signed forwards Marques Bolden and Malik Fitts. (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-sign-marques-bolden-and-malik-fitts) Per team policy, terms of the deal were not released.

– via NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-sign-marques-bolden-and-malik-fitts)




not sure why you wouldn't sign them before practice starts?

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Miye Oni said his mom told him he couldn’t declare for the NBA draft early unless he promised to graduate within five years (https://*********.com/social/). Said he has four classes left to finish his political science degree. Worked on it, along with his new rap album a lot over the summer.

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




so not even a Yale graduate :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Based on his Gleague numbers looks like Bolden rebounds and blocks shots. Back up Udoka and maybe play with him some?

Looks like Fitts is a stretch 4 who sho0t decent in Gleague last year. Might start for Stars?

[Xiao Yao You]

Stars starting to come together maybe. Can sign some more guys to exhibit 10's still I think

Udoka/Bolden
James/Fitts
Hughes/Alston
Butler/Teague
Forrest

[Xiao Yao You]

Tim MacMahon: Mavs reserve G Trey Burke confirms he is not vaccinated and says he’s “not trying to rush into a decision.” He says he wants to do more research. (https://*********.com/social/) Asked what more research he feels he needs to do, Burke mentioned potential long-term effects. Mavs want 100% vaccination rate.

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




not surprising. Was never a high iq player

[Xiao Yao You]

The Larry H. Miller Group of Cos., which built an empire selling cars and trucks, is getting out of the vehicle-selling business. The LHM car dealerships are being sold to an Atlanta-based company for $3.2 billion. (https://www.sltrib.com/news/business/2021/09/29/larry-h-miller-automotive/) The Asbury Automotive Group will acquire Miller’s 54 new-car dealerships, seven used-car dealerships and 11 collision centers in Utah, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho and Washington. It’s the eighth-largest dealership group in the United States.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/news/business/2021/09/29/larry-h-miller-automotive/)

[Xiao Yao You]

“Those thoughts went through my head, but I didn’t want to be that type of person,” Favors said. “So I said, ‘No, I’m going to go down and report there. I’m going to be in training camp. I’m going to be with the team, the organization, and whatever happens happens.’ If I’m here, I’m here. If I get traded, it’s just part of the business. But I’m locked in here.” (https://eu.oklahoman.com/story/sports/2021/09/29/okc-thunder-derrick-favors-brings-veteran-leadership-after-jazz-trade/5893801001/)
– via Justin Martinez @ Oklahoman (https://eu.oklahoman.com/story/sports/2021/09/29/okc-thunder-derrick-favors-brings-veteran-leadership-after-jazz-trade/5893801001/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Kellan Olson: Monty Williams said the most impressive part to him of Devin Booker’s time on Team USA in the Olympics was getting on the plane with Holiday and Middleton after the Finals loss (https://*********.com/social/). Joked (but not really) that his only concern was those possessions when Book was guarding Gobert
– via Twitter KellanOlson (https://twitter.com/KellanOlson)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50251483/why-the-utah-jazz-traveled-to-las-vegas-for-training-camp


Snyder said the experience really helped his team come together. While that didn't necessarily lead to playoff success — Utah was eliminated in the first round during the restart — it served as a catalyst for what ended up being the best regular season team in the league a season ago.



thanks for the losses COTY

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469073/21-jazz-rookie-jared-butler/


Not finding the floor would be a significant change for the guard after averaging 29 minutes per game in 94 outings for the Bears, including 81 starts. Butler contributed (https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/jared-butler-1.html) 16.7 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.3 rebounds during Baylor’s championship run as a junior.



no it wouldn't. That's why they have the Stars. He will play

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469026/jazz-sign-marques-bolden-and-malik-fitts/


Bolden attended Duke University where he averaged 5.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks in during his final season with the Blue Devils.



oh shit he might be in the rotation!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469010/jazz-training-camp-starts-with-more-experience-new-personalities/


One of the more impressive stats for the Jazz heading into the season is that 349 of the team’s 360 starts from last year are back on the roster this season. Only Georges Niang who started 10 games and Ersan Ilyasova who started one game aren’t on this year’s Jazz roster.



Ersan could help them. Too bad about COTY


Snyder has overseen a dramatic improvement of the team since he took over in 2014, growing the team’s win percentages from .463 to a league-best .722 last year. Now, the coach acknowledges, comes the different part of improving where there’s less obvious room for growth.



thanks Rudy! :cheers:


The guard said he’s also closing in on his degree, working to keep a promise he made to his mother before declaring early for the NBA Draft.



don't even remember that he came out early

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/468991/22-jazz-players-fighting-for-minutes/


However, despite those nine players eating up the majority of the minutes, the Jazz had just 22 regular-season games last year when only nine players stepped on the floor. Meanwhile, there were 50 outings when at least 10 players saw the court due to foul trouble, injuries, or late-game minutes in blowout situations.



be more G league minutes for guys this year thankfully


With Ilyasova, Morgan, Brantley, and Thomas all gone from the roster, those previously mentioned names, plus second-year wing Elijah Hughes and two-way guard Justin James should all be options for minutes deep on the Jazz bench.



Hughes isn't an option! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/mediadaybestlines2021/


General manager Justin Zanik: “Some people would say we’ve tried to improve around the fringes. Well, the reason you try to improve around the fringes is because the core is really good… so taking that and trying to add a little more versality (and) depth.”



or you change the coach and your weak links like Clarkson and Hughes


But perhaps just as interestingly, he spent a bit more time than most of his peers looking back at the Clippers series. That’s probably because he bore an unfair (to these eyes) share of the blame among analysts who somehow failed to see what REALLY derailed the Jazz defense (https://saltcityhoops.com/what-we-really-just-saw-as-jazz-collapsed-versus-clippers/). Short version: Gobert’s defense was mostly stout, even when he was asked to show his versatility and guard in space; the house of cards tumbled because nobody else could stay in front of the ball.



nice that someone else was paying attention


One place he did take some responsbility: he said he’s got to be able to punish switching defenses better on the other end — “and not just rebounding.”



his teammates have to give him a chance to do that as we saw in the olympics


Donovan Mitchell: “I think there’s another level I can get to. Obviously being able to be more efficient… It’s turnovers, it’s defense, when I’m on the floor, you know, your presence is felt. Being able to be a leader on the floor (and) picking it up defensively as well.”



pass to the open man?


After a playoff collapse that came down mostly to defensive failings, this is an encouraging talking point. Too many Clipper ball handlers just got right around their defenders in isolation and completely destroyed the integrity of Utah’s defensive game plans. As a result, they had to beg Gobert to scramble, which opened him up to another offseason chorus of criticisms. But the problem at its core was about defense at the point of attack, and the Jazz can’t clean that up without a bit more pride and focus from everyone — even O’Neale, their best perimter defender.



O'Neale is fine. Needs to play on the wing not the 4


Enough people offered unsolicited praise of Butler on Monday that it’s starting to seem like he really could play a role in year one. The nine man rotation appears pretty set as of now, and Butler seems to get that, telling reporters that he wants to be ready “when guys need rest.” But one thing we’ll have to see unfold in camp is the pecking order in terms of who that 10th guy is who will fill in whenever a guard or wing has to miss time. Last year, that role belonged to Miye Oni, but it’s up to Butler (or even Elijah Hughes) to see if he can play his way into some of those emergency minutes, at minimum.



was Oni unless more than one guy was out then it was Forrest for whatever reason! Hughes sucks!


Meanwhile, Paschall appears to be the main candidate for the equivalent rotation spot up front: the guy who will find himself playing whenever one of Utah’s centers or forwards has to sit. The other option is Udoka Azubuike, but an ankle injury really kept “Dok” from developing much last season. On the other hand, Paschall has played 2,300 NBA minutes, and he scored more points than any other Warrior in 2019-20.



you forgot bff


Again, I don’t think most people realize just how hurt Bogey was for much of last season. The Croatian forward had some options in terms of how he could manage his rehabilition after wrist surgery, and it sure seems like the path he took led to some lingering issues. He still managed to match his career 3pt% even with a bum wrist, but his percentages in close dropped significantly. If he can truly return to his level of shooting from his first Jazz season (41.4%) and also get back to creating efficienty in certain other contexts, the Jazz will have another weapon they can use to combat different defensive looks.



needs to move to Clarkson's role


Ahh, there’s no better sign that Jazz basketball is almost back in our lives than hearing the ever-vibing Clarkson ooze coolness all over the room.

[Xiao Yao You]

Gabrielle Union admits dropping up to $20,000 on strip club trips with Dwyane Wade (https://clutchpoints.com/gabrielle-union-admits-dropping-up-to-20000-on-strip-club-trips-with-dwyane-wade/)
– via Paolo Songco @ Clutch Points (https://clutchpoints.com/gabrielle-union-admits-dropping-up-to-20000-on-strip-club-trips-with-dwyane-wade/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/29/utah-jazz-ranking-5-best-lineups-2021-22/


The Utah Jazz made significant strides towards improving on their vastly deficient positional versatility this offseason with the additions of Rudy Gay (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/03/utah-jazz-rudy-gay-agreed-deal-jazz/) and Eric Paschall (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/05/utah-jazz-grading-eric-paschall-trade/). Each man profiles as the type of small-ball center the Jazzmen were missing against the Los Angeles Clippers in last season’s Western Conference semifinals.



tired of hearing iut. They weren't missing it. COTY chose to get the Wizard fired instead of winning


Instead, expect Head Coach Quin Snyder to run five-out, small ball lineups when appropriate and necessary. Versatility is the name of the game in the modern NBA, particularly in the all-important postseason. The balance that Snyder must strike for the Utah Jazz this season is to maximize Gobert’s effectiveness wherever possible while maintaining a willingness to remove him from games when necessary.



I don't expect it. Same coach


Rudy Gobert’s presence is not the only situational decision facing Snyder. In an increasingly positionless league, the Utah Jazz sport one of the more positionless teams. Players like Joe Ingles, Royce O’Neale, Bojan Bogdanovic and Jordan Clarkson (https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/25/utah-reporter-recognize-utah-jazz-star/) are all capable of playing in at least 2 or more spots on the floor.



Bojan and Clarkson play one position


The presence of a lineup featuring Rudy Gay in the middle so early in this list may infer to readers that there still exist several Gobert anchored lineups that project as better options for regular usage for the Utah Jazz.



doubt there's any lineup without Gobert that are better than any lineup with him


After all, if the opposing team isn’t running a three-point threat at the 5 spot, we’re likely to continue seeing Rudy Gobert in the lineup.



nothing is likely with COTY


Meanwhile, this offense projects to hum. The collective shooting, dribble penetration and playmaking chops of Conley Jr., Mitchell and Clarkson should be an overwhelming force for any defense looking to mitigate its effectiveness. Each of the 3 Utah Jazz ball-handlers will also have peak optionality in pick-and-roll or pick-and-pop sets between their two front court mates in O’Neale and Gobert.



the problem you have is two gunners who don't play D or pass the ball


Another note on that embarrassment of riches the Utah Jazz will enjoy in terms of positional versatility: our last lineup saw Royce O’Neale at the 4, and here, we’re plugging him into the 2 spot.



he's the 4 with probably anyone they play him with. Ingles isn't a PF


On the other hand, this lineup features plenty of ball-handling, passing and shot-creating between Mitchell, Bogdanovic and Ingles. It may be the case that swapping O’Neale’s catch-and-shoot dominant style for Conley’s playmaking simply creates better floor balance.



The best lineups are going to have Gobert, O'Neale, Conley and probably Ingles


At least, that’s the conclusion we’re forced to draw if we put any stock in CleaningtheGlass’s data from last season. As effective as the former lineup was in 2020-21, this group was devastating. They ranked in the 96th percentile in differential-per-100 possessions with an otherworldly 30.4 differential.



without the best player in franchise history?


There may be compelling normative explanations for this lineups’ empirical effectiveness relative to the last group. First of all, Donovan Mitchell is simply not a point guard. He is absolutely capable of running point for stretches, but he’s a scoring-minded guard (and for good reason: he’s the best scorer on the Utah Jazz by a long shot).



and he doesn't play D while 4 of these guys do


None of which is to say that Conley Jr. is a better basketball player than Mitchell. Simply put, he isn’t. Mitchell’s preternatural scoring ability separates him (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/23/utah-jazz-donovan-mitchell-compete-mvp/) from both Conley Jr. and, in fact, every other member of the Utah Jazz.



Conley was better. There's a reason they kept winning without Mitchell and Conley though and it's not COTY


That’s still a decent performance, particularly for the Utah Jazz grouping that probably faced the stiffest competition. However, it seems likely that Ingles’ vastly superior playmaking and defense plus narrowly superior floor spacing outweighed the pure scoring ability that Bogey brings to the table last season.



Ingles is the better player by far

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/29/utah-jazz-ink-duke-basketball-big-man/


Of course, one nugget potentially working in Marques Bolden’s favor is that Utah Jazz head coach Quin Snyder is also a Dukie.



scary

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.yahoo.com/news/shes-dropped-her-nursing-program-010112254.html

>Roll, who is also a freshman nursing student gaining clinical experience at a local hospital, said her vaccination status in the face of New York's mandate has also impacted her education. Roll said her dean at Mohawk Valley Community College informed her that if she remained unvaccinated, she would not be able to proceed with her nursing clinicals at a hospital that is adhering to the state mandate, effectively disqualifying her from the program.

losing your job and getting kicked out of school to own the libs!

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Bojan Bogdanovic (shoulder) and Rudy Gay (foot) we’re not cleared for contact during this Jazz training camp (https://*********.com/social/).

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




Eric Walden: Bojan Bogdanovic has minor shoulder soreness and has been a limited participant. Could play if it was the regular season. Rudy Gay had minor surgery on his left heel at the end of the last season and will miss the preseason. He is expected back early in the season (https://*********.com/social/).

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



Looks like BFF will be playing early

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50253161/jazz-forward-rudy-gay-will-miss-beginning-of-season-as-he-recovers-from-offseason-surgery


Gay is expected to be a major part of the rotation this season. His ability to guard on the perimeter and serve as a small-ball center should allow Snyder to use him in a number of different ways and lineups. With him set to miss time that could open up more time for Eric Paschall, Miye Oni or, if the Jazz want to get creative, rookie guard Jared Butler.



got to be bff you'd think. Bojan and Ingles aren't 4's as much as people want to say they are. Guess it could be the Duke guy knowing COTY :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50252925/ksl-radio-to-broadcast-select-utah-jazz-games-under-new-agreement-with-zone-sports-network

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469154/20-jazz-return-to-82-game-schedule/


An additional advantage for the Jazz is only having to play the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers just three times each rather than four, both of whom are expected to compete for home-court advantage in the playoffs.



Clipps might be a lottery team!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/9/29/22696637/utah-jazz-must-be-healthy-stay-healthy-in-order-to-make-extended-run-in-nba-playoffs


It’s difficult to properly evaluate a team like the Jazz when they haven’t been able to compete in a postseason at full health. No one knows how deep a run the Jazz might have made if the full squad had been able to play together the last two postseasons. For all we know, things might have ended the same way.



pretty sure they would have reached the next round if they'd had a coach that would've made adjutments


When asked about the possibility of resting players more and opening up the rotation, Snyder pointed out that the Jazz did rest Conley in back-to-backs last season, the Jazz are not alone in using a nine-man rotation, the Jazz rarely held game-day shootarounds, and that the health and performance staff are experts in their fields with the best interest of the players in mind at all times.



too bad they didn't listen to the experts in their fields and listened to Mitchell and his posse instead


“If I’m playing Jordan Clarkson (https://www.deseret.com/2021/5/25/22452925/utah-jazz-jordan-clarkson-accepted-role-becoming-the-sixth-man-of-the-year-nba-playoffs-memphis) 18 minutes instead of 24, then we’re not using Jordan Clarkson, in my opinion, the right way,” Snyder said. “Same thing with Joe. You can shave Joe’s minutes from 32 to 26, but at some point, those guys are really good.”



Clarkson sucks

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/30/utah-jazz-malik-fitts-shot-ideal-fit/


To have any shot at landing a permanent spot on the roster via a guaranteed contract, though, the 24-year-old Fitts must first prove more valuable than the other three guys currently vying for a place with the 2021-22 Jazz bunch. They are Marques Bolden, Derrick Alston Jr., and MaCio Teague.



not really. Just needs to go to the Stars and who he has game


After all, Utah appears to have only one opening available at the moment for the opening day roster.



so they? Doubt they fill it

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/30/utah-jazz-4-buyout-candidates/


As currently constructed, the Jazz may be left wanting for a fourth rotational guard. (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/10/utah-jazz-free-agency-3-guards-rotation/) Rookie Jared Butler enters the 2021-22 season with plenty of promise, but leaning on rookies is typically not a recipe for success for a team vying for the NBA championship. Furthermore, Butler is a point guard: the Jazz could benefit tremendously from rostering a player with McLemore’s floor-spacing experience and mindset.



Butler is a combo guard I think

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: The Utah Jazz have waived Justin James. (https://*********.com/social/) They now have a two way spot open

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




that was quick? They already like someone else in camp better? He get an offer overseas? Sign another exhibit 10?

[Xiao Yao You]

Joe Mussatto: Derrick Favors and Vit Krejci didn’t do much today, per Mark Daigneault. Both are dealing with knee issues (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter joe_mussatto (https://twitter.com/joe_mussatto)

[Xiao Yao You]

League sources say that the Mavericks explored the trade market for Trey Burke, 28, in the offseason before signing Frank Ntilikina in hopes of clearing a roster spot for Ntilikina’s addition. (https://marcstein.substack.com/p/new-balls-please) No trade materialized, so Dallas has 16 guaranteed contracts (if you include Moses Brown’s partially guaranteed deal) and has to shed one before the start of the regular season. Releasing Burke would be a costly move, since he is owed more than $6 million this season and next season, but Dallas is expected to continue to explore trade scenarios to try to address its roster overload.

– via Marc Stein @ marcstein.substack.com (https://marcstein.substack.com/p/new-balls-please)




:roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

So did it all work? Did the Jazz get what they wanted out of their Vegas trip? “It almost forces you to kind of hang out and spend time together,” Joe Ingles said. “Obviously, like the bubble, which was a very similar feeling, obviously, to this.” The newer players started to get a feel for their teammates and picked up on some of their tendencies while also getting a deeper understanding of their personalities. Make no mistake, this wasn’t just about team-building and bonding. “This isn’t vacation,” Snyder was quick to point out. “This was a real training camp, and at the same time, I think it provided us opportunities to be around one another.” (https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/1/22702463/utah-jazz-held-training-camp-in-las-vegas-for-two-reasons-bonding-on-court-and-off-quin-snyder-says)
– via Sarah Todd @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/1/22702463/utah-jazz-held-training-camp-in-las-vegas-for-two-reasons-bonding-on-court-and-off-quin-snyder-says)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469190/19-jazz-forward-eric-paschall/


Now in Utah, Paschall has a chance to redirect his carer on a Jazz roster that may rely heavily on him on the wing.



not a wing right?


Coming into training camp, it was difficult to see where Paschall might find minutes on the floor, showing up as the 10th man in the Jazz nine-man rotation.



he should have to earn the 10th man but he is bff


With Gay out over the four preseason contests, Paschall could assume his role, a strong indicator that his role is dependent on Gay’s availability throughout the season. Considering Gay is entering his 15th year in the NBA, is coming off offseason surgery, and has played fewer than 70 games in eight of his last 11 seasons, there should still be ample opportunity for the forward to see the floor if he’s used primarily as emergency depth at the forward position



hard to imagine him not assuming the role


However, Snyder could also use Paschall alongside the Jazz’s bigger forwards or at the center position, testing out the team’s ability to go very big, or very small for short stretches on the floor.



don't expect that


During his rookie season, Paschall played the majority of his minutes at the power forward position but was more effective while playing at the three. Due to the Warriors roster make up last season, the newest Jazzman saw almost no minutes at the three which may have been partially to blame for his drop in production.



3 through 5 I guess. I'd expect him at the 4 for the Jazz even though it looks like his worst spot

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/9/30/22703636/dish-drops-att-sportsnet-tv-home-of-the-utah-jazz-channel

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/01/utah-jazz-nba-targeting-donovan-mitchell/


Without question, it’s a dilemma. However, is Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/23/utah-jazz-donovan-mitchell-compete-mvp/) a particularly notable culprit? The numbers suggest otherwise. Last season, Mitchell shot 6.0 free throw attempts per night. In comparison to two of his contemporaries most frequently associated with unnatural shooting motions, it appears Mitchell was either unable or unwilling to trick NBA officials.



he's just not been very good at it

[Xiao Yao You]

Rudy Gay, the Utah Jazz’s primary addition in free agency this summer, will miss all of the coming four-game preseason schedule and the start of the regular season, (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/09/30/utah-jazz-forward-rudy/) as well.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/09/30/utah-jazz-forward-rudy/)




The team spokesman said Gay’s heel was not expected to be a long-term situation, (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/09/30/utah-jazz-forward-rudy/) though it will keep him out for the entire preseason and the beginning of the regular season.
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/09/30/utah-jazz-forward-rudy/)

[Xiao Yao You]

Butler looked good in the practice. Hopefully Clarkson will be gone by the trade deadline. Whiteside and Rudy were going at it pretty good too

[Xiao Yao You]

The Dallas Mavericks, NBA sources tell DallasBasketball.com, want to trade Trey Burke. (https://www.si.com/nba/mavericks/news/source-dallas-mavericks-trade-trey-burke-covid-issue-news-luka-doncic) And in addition to the usual trade complications and stumbling blocks that might come with any trade idea, in play here is the fact that Burke, who has demonstrated himself to be at times an explosive scoring point guard, is still “studying” whether he wants to vaccinated against COVID. Medical facts? We won’t go there. Transactional facts? We know for a fact that in the NFL, if you are a street free agent looking for work, the first question prospective employers ask you is, “Are you vaccinated against COVID?” And if your answer is unsatisfactory, said NFL team will not sign you.

– via Mike Fisher @ Sports Illustrated (https://www.si.com/nba/mavericks/news/source-dallas-mavericks-trade-trey-burke-covid-issue-news-luka-doncic)





The Mavs would have to eat money to release him, but why would they retain a non-vaccinated “threat”? What is the down-side cost of that? So, let newcomer Frank Ntilikina serve as the new deep backup to Luka Doncic at the 1, and swap out Burke. But to whom? Exactly which NBA team wants to swap to Dallas some value for a third-string point guard … with a non-vaxx status that might render him unavailable? Burke, to his credit, has rejuvenated his career as a creator and scorer. But medicine – and, if you wish, politics, stand in the way of a trade (https://www.si.com/nba/mavericks/news/source-dallas-mavericks-trade-trey-burke-covid-issue-news-luka-doncic).
– via Mike Fisher @ Sports Illustrated (https://www.si.com/nba/mavericks/news/source-dallas-mavericks-trade-trey-burke-covid-issue-news-luka-doncic)




worked his back into the league and on the way out again for being stupid :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469316/jazz-zoom-practice-gives-fans-rare-glimpse-behind-scenes/


“It makes the big have to be up a little bit more to kind of respect that,” Mitchell said of the spacing Whiteside creates, “and then I’m able to get by.”



Favors and Bradley did that too.


Jazz fans will get a better look at the team Monday night when they travel to San Antonio to face the Spurs in their preseason opener.



they will? it's radio only

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/2/22706432/can-trent-forrest-have-an-expanded-role-for-the-utah-jazz-this-season


Can Trent Forrest have an expanded role for the Utah Jazz this season?


he's on a two way and is probably now behind Butler as well so no


Barring significant injuries for Mike Conley, Donovan Mitchell and Joe Ingles (fingers crossed), Forrest will probably have limited opportunities this season. He’ll be able to play some minutes when the core players are resting, might get some time in blowouts, but he’ll pretty much be at the end of the bench.



he'll pretty much be with the Stars because of his contract


The Jazz obviously aren’t putting all their eggs in one basket. There’s competition at the position with rookie Jared Butler, but Forrest sees the competition as something that can make him stronger.



and Oni was ahead of him most of the year as long as multiple guys weren't out :facepalm


One of the most important things that players such as Forrest or even Butler and Elijah Hughes, Udoka Azubuike and Miye Oni can learn is patience. Because even though there are slow years and limited opportunities in the NBA, no career lasts forever, and for those that can stay committed to getting better, there’s a possibility that a door can open right in front of you.



good luck with COTY

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/02/utah-jazz-ranking-important-players/


That’s because the Utah Jazz rostered both the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year in Jordan Clarkson (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/11/utah-jazz-contend-nba-1-condition/), and the league’s runner-up in Joe Ingles. Between Quin Snyder’s platoon of wings and guards, the designation of starter is almost arbitrary.



unfortunately it's not. The starters play the most minutes. Ingles might close instead of someone


Bojan Bogdanovic made a strong contribution to the Jazz’s ability to hoist so many deep balls. He managed 6.4 attempts per contest, drilling an efficient 39.0% of those attempts. Furthermore, Bogey willingly played the role of pure floor-spacer, as a remarkable 96.1% of those made threes were assisted-on.



ahead of Royce? :roll:


If you’re still picking your jaw up off the floor from Ingles’ placement, here’s a spoiler: there won’t be any more surprises to be found here.



bet there is. Conley was ahead of Mitchell and most NBA players last year


We’ll compare him to Donovan Mitchell, as a comparison between Conley Jr and Rudy Gobert veers too closely into apples/oranges territory. Over 2020-21, Conley Jr.’s BPM was significantly higher than Mitchell’s, at 4.4 to 3.5. Meanwhile, Mitchell barely edged the veteran floor general in VORP, at 2.5 to 2.4. Mitchell did enjoy a significant advantage in PER, at 21.3 to 19.2, but again, PER is a metric that particularly favors players who rack up basic counting stats.



so why is Mitchell ahead when he wasn't?


Here’s where we willingly throw away the advanced metrics: we already know Donovan Mitchell is the most important player on the Utah Jazz.



we do? Why did they still win without Mitchell and or/Conley? They've never won without Gobert and would be a lottery team if he went down


That’s the weight a player carries with a team-leading 26.4 points per game. As valuable as Gobert’s rim protection, Conley Jr.’s IQ, Ingles’ versatility and Bogdanovic’s floor-spacing are to this squad, the game, as they say, is ultimately about a bucket.



and the offense revolves around Gobert


There’s not a player on this roster Quin Snyder is more likely to turn to in pursuit of one. Furthermore, Mitchell isn’t just the player whose most important to the Jazz’s present, he’s also the most important player to their future (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/23/utah-jazz-donovan-mitchell-compete-mvp/).



that you could argue


The depth of this Utah Jazz team makes them a challenging proposition for any opposing defense. It’s notable that in this ranking of the five most important players on the roster, we did not include reigning Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson, or 3-and-D glue guy Royce O’Neale. Quin Snyder’s top 7 players should be the envy of teams across the National Basketball Association.



anyone that envies Clarkson can have him please!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/02/utah-jazz-solved-flu-game-mystery/


“Michael Jordan grabbed some food off the TV craft services leaving the building. And so did I. I know the documentary. I know Michael Jordan has this theory about this mystery pizza that was delivered. I’m pretty sure he actually got food poisoning from the craft services table in the Delta Center at that time because I did too.”



interesting

[Xiao Yao You]

https://hoopshabit.com/2021/10/02/utah-jazz-predicting-final-record/


This isn’t to suggest the Jazz were unworthy of their lofty record or that they were merely lucky to find so much success. However, it’s safe to say that terrible things won’t happen to ALL of their top competitors in the Western Conference next season, which will certainly complicate the path to getting that No. 1 seed back for a second straight season.



Murray, Klay and Kawai are still out. Lebron has been hurt the past 3 years and Davis is always hurt. Paul has had his share. So not really safe to say


As great as Donovan Mitchell and the rest of their high-scoring guards and wings are, it remains to be seen if they have an answer for elite offenses. The Jazz were exposed by the Clippers as guards like Reggie Jackson and Terrence Mann devastated them inside with drives to the basket, once again raising questions about how effective Gobert can really be in the playoffs.



Gobert can't stop a team by himself. The questions should start with their coach and the guys around Gobert


Make no mistake, the Utah Jazz are going to be formidable, but the Lakers look like just too much if they can stay healthy. Given the depth they added in the offseason, the Lakers are the team to beat in the West. The Jazz, unfortunately, are not.



big if for the Lakers and Westbrook is a negative to me regardless

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Bojan Bogdanovic (shoulder soreness) and Rudy Gay (heel surgery) are both OUT for the Utah Jazz’s preseason opener Monday in San Antonio (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469247/17-jazz-center-hassan-whiteside/


If the pairing can work, it would be a strong, affordable fix to replace Derrick Favors who was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the offseason. If it doesn’t, the Jazz could find themselves back where they were during the 2019-20 season, looking for a suitable backup, which caused them to overspend on Favors last season.



they had a suitable backup. Too bad they wasted money on Favors instead of the starting 4 they still need

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/3/22705867/what-the-utah-jazz-hope-to-accomplish-during-preseason-slate-nba


“Someone could play really well and you see him in a different light and you want to explore that,” Snyder said. “We’ve got some young players that are going to be competing for opportunity. ... And we’ve got some things we’re doing that we want to get better at. Reps in competitive environments are one of the ways that that can happen.”



:roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/4/22708524/projecting-jared-butlers-first-two-season-nba-player-comps


On David Locke’s podcast Locked On Jazz (https://www.lockedonjazz.net/jazz/si-ranked-donovan-mitchell-and-rudy-gobert-where-how-do-the-utah-jazz-get-better-with-tony-jones/), Athletic reporter Tony Jones remarked of Butler, “I actually think he’s going to play a role on this team. I think they need to get him as far up to speed as they can during camp and preseason.”



I'd be happy if he's ready by the trade deadline along with Udoka and they can send Clarkson and Whiteside somewhere else


He proceeded to win rookie of the year in what many have called the weakest class in some time. Hindsight tells us he was a lot better than many gave him credit for, specifically his positive impact on the team.



he was an older rookie though


Jalen Brunson - 50%tile outcome (average)

he'd be disappointing comp


There’s every indication that the organization believes in and is looking to trust Butler. Not since Raul Neto did the Jazz have a solid, true backup PG. Despite Neto’s health and defensive limitations, we missed him greatly with their mutual parting.



I missed Neto. No one else did. Ingles is a pg

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/3/22708002/utah-jazz-take-on-the-san-antonio-spurs-in-1st-preseason-game-of-the-season-nba-2021-22


JC didn't get bashful over the summer. 12 shots in 14 minutes, 0 assists.

God he sucks!


Poetl 2/4 7 boards, Eubanks 2/2 5 boards, and a 3. Ok, maybe Whiteside isn't going to be the defensive presence we hoped.

never has been.


Hughes getting the start instead of Bogie. Great chance for him to get some minutes with the starters.

the worst guy in camp. COTY! :facepalm


I agree. Once Favors came out, teams attacked the rim what felt like 100% of the time. Whiteside may be greedy on getting blocks, but he still can block and should keep teams from attacking quite as often. Only the best drivers won't be hesitant.

it's been that way with anyone behind Rudy


Butler and Pascall to me are the key to the season. If Butler can be a regular rotation guy for 10 minutes a game as the season progresses, that really helps prevent Ingles and Conley from playing too much and limiting injuries and exhaustion. And if Pascall can come in and bring a spark off the bench with elite driving skills and guard bigger guys, then that really gives the Jazz some options (assuming Snyder actually tinkers with the lineups as I am hoping he will at least a little - crossing fingers)

the key is new coach and new 6th man and the best player in franchise history playing some D and passing the ball

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/04/utah-jazz-3-comparisons-paschall/4/

Marshall or Rogers sure. God let's hope he's not Walker!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/03/utah-jazz-reevaluating-clarksons-award/

should have been Ingles. Clarkson sucks!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/10/04/nba-power-ranking-preseason-begins/5/

just ahead of Dallas! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/newcomers-make-good-impression-open-practice


Fellow newcomer Eric Paschall also impressed with his big frame, looking very comfortable down on the block and driving to the hoop with aggression and strength—including a highlight where he bullied his childhood best friend Donovan Mitchell in the lane for an easy score.



I could score on Mitchell! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50255469/jazz-announce-tv-broadcast-details-with-dish-subscribers-cord-cutters-lacking-options-

shitshow!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50255263/what-to-expect-from-the-jazzs-preseason-opener-tonight


"He's been playing really well," Clarkson said. "He has a great pace. He's shifty, he's able to get to a spot and be able to finish."



hopefully he takes your job soon!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469458/jordan-clarkson-proves-flamethrower-nickname-vs-spurs/


Last season, Clarkson led the Jazz in three-pointers made, connecting on a team record for a single season 208 deep balls.



by far their worst shooter. Something wrong there :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Gregg Popovich on Rudy Gay: “He’s a great teammate, gets along with everybody well. He was a mentor to the young guys. … He really relishes that role.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Hughes 8 boards, 4 assists, a steal and 3-7 from 3!

Mitchell and Conley sucked

8 boards and a block for Udoka

Paschall 7 pts and 5 boards

Butler 16 pts 2 ass 2 stl

Clarkson 4-12 0 ass!

Looks like Oni may have fallen down in the rotation. Maybe cut him?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50255698/the-jazz-opened-up-preseason-play-on-monday-so-how-did-the-new-guys-do-


So with the Jazz missing four key contributors, it's not much of a surprise Utah wasn't as crisp as it was for much of last season. But without those players suiting up, it gave Utah's new additions a chance for more playing time. Isn't that what the preseason is all about anyway?



especially the guy that keep them from the lottery


One thing about Butler really stood out, especially in the second half: his ability to run the pick and roll. Butler showed a good feel for how to set up the play with his bigs, and his search dribble extended a few plays.



sweet. Now if he can just get the ball from Mitchell and Clarkson to do so


Paschall finished with 7 points and five rebounds in a solid Jazz debut for the third-year forward. Paschall plays with a ton of energy, has a good basketball IQ and fights for loose balls. There's a lot of things he can do to help a team, but how good of a role player he is for the Jazz may come down to how he shoots the 3-ball.



sounds like he could make Oni replaceable That's what Oni brought

[Xiao Yao You]

Mike Conley has $1.5 million in bonuses in his contract if the Utah Jazz reach the NBA Finals and win the championship ($750K each). (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/32338588/nba-bonus-watch-supermaxes-incentives-2021-22) If both are met, Utah would owe an additional $5 million in tax penalties. Joe Ingles also has a $600K bonus if his defensive rating is below 101.5.
– via Bobby Marks @ ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/story/_/id/32338588/nba-bonus-watch-supermaxes-incentives-2021-22)

[Xiao Yao You]

Marc J. Spears: Jazz say Bojan Bogdanović (right shoulder soreness) & Rudy Gay (right heel surgery) are both out for tomorrow’s game against the Mavericks (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter MarcJSpears (https://twitter.com/MarcJSpears)

[Xiao Yao You]

Dwain Price: For tomorrow’s preseason opener at home against Utah, Jason Kidd said Luka and KP probably will only play in the first half. (https://*********.com/social/) Kidd: “Their minutes have already been slotted, so they’ll play together in the 1st and 2nd quarters.” Tipoff at American Airlines Center is at 7:30 p.m.
– via Twitter DwainPrice (https://twitter.com/DwainPrice)

[Xiao Yao You]

Sarah Todd: Bojan Bogdanovic said he is starting to practice with the Jazz with us week and is not expecting to miss any regular season games. (https://*********.com/social/) May even be back tomorrow but he’s not sure.
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469466/butler-scores-16-in-debut-jazz-fall-to-spurs/


Butler showed off what made him so highly sought after by the Jazz both scoring the ball and on the defensive end. The guard recorded two steals and drew a charge in 20 minutes, highlighting his natural instincts on both ends of the floor.



sounds like he already defends better than most of the team. Who wants Clarkson?


However, after a promising start, the rookie may be closer to finding the floor than expected.



we can only hope. Clarkson needs to go!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/5/22710749/how-good-are-the-utah-jazz-heres-what-nba-gms-think


The Jazz were voted far and away the second-best team in the Western Conference behind the Los Angeles Lakers, receiving 53% of the second-place votes (the Lakers got 80% of the first-place votes, and the Jazz were second with 13%).



not worried about LA


Quin Snyder (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2021/3/5/22307147/quin-snyder-utah-jazz-all-star-moment-duke-blue-devils-mike-krzyzewski-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert) was voted the third-best coach in the league behind Miami’s Erik Spoelstra and Phoenix’s Monty Williams. Spoelstra got 55% of the vote, Williams 17% and Snyder 14%.



:roll:


Snyder tied with Toronto’s Nick Nurse for fourth place among coaches who make the best in-game adjustments.



he makes none! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/05/utah-jazz-skill-jared-butler-minutes/


But so long as head coach Quin Snyder (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/03/newest-utah-jazz-players/) continues to call his number often when the regular season begins on Oct. 20, Butler’s staggering shiftiness, smooth trigger, impressive vision, and advanced confidence should confuse defenses regularly. No doubt Utah has sufficient 3-point snipers to consistently drain all the open looks that the floor general’s gifted flow would create.



offense hasn't been their problem the last two years :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Duane Rankin: #NBATV is no longer televising #Suns final preseason game Oct. 13 against Portland at home. The Bucks-Jazz game in Utah will be televised by NBA TV (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter DuaneRankin (https://twitter.com/DuaneRankin)

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Injury updates for tonight: Rudy Gobert, Joe Ingles, Mike Conley, Donovan Mitchell are out due to rest (https://*********.com/social/). Hassan Whiteside is out due to left heel soreness. Bojan Bogdanovic is out due to right shoulder soreness. Rudy Gay out due to offseason heel surgery.

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



Udoka!

[Xiao Yao You]

Mirjam Swanson: Is Serge eager to get back? Ty Lue: “He’s very anxious — but we gotta be smart. (https://*********.com/social/) Can’t let the player dictate when they get on the floor, because they’ll get hurt.”

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



luckily for you the Jazz didn't get that memo

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/06/utah-jazz-3-goals-hassan-whiteside/

don't let Udoka take your job

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50257606/18-ex-nba-players-including-a-former-jazz-guard-charged-in-4m-health-care-fraud-scheme


Among those charged was Anthony Allen, a six-time All-Defensive team selection and a member of the 2008 champion Boston Celtics. His wife was also indicted. For the most part, though, the ex-players charged had journeyman careers playing for several different teams and never reached anywhere close to the enormous stardom or salary that top players command. That includes former Jazz guard Milt Palacio, who played one season in Utah in 2005-06.



Milt sucked!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50257230/new-defensive-look-jared-butlers-big-night-highlight-utahs-2nd-preseason-contest


With Utah missing a good chunk of its core lineup, Snyder was able to experiment with something rarely seen in Utah: a small-ball center. The Jazz started the lineup of Trent Forrest, Jordan Clarkson, Miye Oni, Royce O'Neale and Eric Paschall. And since Paschall isn't known for his rim-protecting prowess, Utah switched everything.



COTY trying to keep his job?


There were some rough moments: Clarkson didn't look comfortable guarding in the post, Doncic was just plain mean at times to the Utah B team, and Paschall struggled to keep guards in front of him.



Clarkson doesn't look comfortable doing anything but dribbling and shooting


But there was also plenty of good: Oni and Forrest held their own in the post, which allowed them to swarm around ball handlers to create turnovers; and Utah was good in knowing when to go for turnovers and when to stay home, especially when factored in that the team hadn't done this before.



imagine that. Guys that defend defending and not forcing Rudy to do everything


So was this a one-off experiment or will we see it again when the games start to count? Gay played some small-ball center when he was with the San Antonio Spurs, and his value to the team is much higher if he can fill a similar role this season. His perimeter defense is also much better than Paschall's, so it stands to reason the Jazz will look better with him in the lineup — and it could provide a much-needed look when the playoffs roll around.



don't count on it.


There was another thing that came out of the Jazz sitting a good chunk of their roster: Jared Butler got a lot of playing time. And with apologies to Mitchell, Conley and Gobert, that's what people wanted to see in the preseason, especially with how the rookie has been playing.



that's what I want to see. My mom and I'm sure many others don't


Everything seemed easy for Butler. He manipulated defenders with slight hesitation moves to get into the paint to create easy scoring opportunities and he hit defenders with dribble move after dribble move to free up space for a step back 3-pointer. He looked like someone that could contribute right away.



who wants Clarkson?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469572/butler-hughes-fitts-highlight-jazz-youth-in-loss-to-mavericks/


“Sometimes you have to find a fit,” Jazz coach Quin Snyder said of Elijah Hughes’s role. “Going to the offensive glass, running the court, playing defense, rebounding, all those things.”



why not get someone that actually does those things instead like Brantley, Morgan, Tucker...?


Fitts signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Jazz which functions as a training camp invite that allows the team to retain his G League rights should they waive him.



Clippers G league team has his rights


Forrest has also struggled with the size of interior defenders after summer league. The guard easily picked apart the slower defenses in Salt Lake City and Vegas by getting into the paint and using floaters to score at the rim. However, the guard has struggled to shoot the ball in preseason including a 3-11 night against the Mavericks.



shooting is what he will have to get better at. He showed he could play last year but if the other team isn't guarding you it's an issue

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/6/22712658/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-go-small-as-starters-and-vets-rest-dallas-mavericks-nba


If I had to make a guess about which fringe rotation player was going to get the most opportunity this season, I would say Jared Butler, it wouldn’t even be close and I’d feel pretty confident in my guess. I know that’s it’s just two preseason games, but the kid just looks like he’s farther along than the other players and has the tools that will give him a great career in this league.



you think? :facepalm


It’s probably not great news for Forrest that Butler is having a pretty impressive preseason thus far. While the Jazz like Forrest, it’s going to be hard for them to deny minutes to Butler with how much potential Butler has.



who is it exactly that will lose minutes because of Butler? Clarkson is the obvious choice by maybe COTY's favorite player! Forrest is on a two way. He wasn't expected to play or he'd be on a regular contract. That's how these things work


When all of the players on the floor are players that are not in the regular rotation, the Jazz’s spacing seems to collapse more often than not. There are a handful of possessions when Oni or Hughes, who have been around for a minute, float out to the wide corners as they are supposed to and they got some open looks that way. But there are way more times that everyone was passing up open looks and then the space incrementally shrunk with each successive pass. It really does help when these guys get time on the floor with the good players on a team who can guide them and correct them and help them. One of my high school basketball coaches used to say, “practice doesn’t make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect.” If you keep practicing but you’re doing things wrong and you aren’t great at those things, then you probably aren’t going to get that much better.



Oni and Hughes will be open because they can't shoot. Brantley would have done well on the court with their best players. We saw it. Morgan as well


Players like Hughes, Butler, and even some of the other young players, likely won’t be evaluated based on their ability to score or their offensive abilities. Hughes has improved his shot, he shoots in rhythm and has a good feel for when to attack. Butler is a pure shooter who is really savvy with the ball. What they are able to do on the defensive end is going to be how their growth is evaluated. That’s neither a good thing or a bad thing, just a thing to think about as we’re watching these players. They’re good on the offensive side and we know that. But how good can they be on the other end?




I'd worry more about Mitchell and the guys that play on that end

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/6/22713891/jared-butler-and-elijah-hughes-shine-in-utah-jazz-preseason-loss-to-the-dallas-mavericks


The obvious benefit to the small-ball lineup was the spread floor on offense that gave the Jazz good looks. The interesting wrinkle was how effective it was on the defensive end. With Miye Oni and Royce O’neale on the perimeter, Utah looked surprisingly good defensively.



having one shooter on the floor will get you open looks


The Jazz had two players really stand out tonight. First, let’s talk about Elijah Hughes. Hughes is a player that has shown real flashes in his short time with the Jazz. Tonight, with a nice amount of play time, he showed more flashes of potential. Hughes scored 11 points on 33% shooting from three while also grabbing 3 rebounds and dishing out 3 assists. The assists might have been the most impressive. Hughes consistently made the right passes to open shooters. He also made some nice plays on defense including this block in transition.



what flashes? Did I blink?







Butler, Mitchell and Conley. Run BMC.



I'm having flashbacks to the Thomas, Dumars and Johnson backcourt trio. Almost interchangeable. All could, dribble, pass, shoot, score. 48 minutes of great guard play.



Also, wonder how Butler's play may affect JC's minutes and shots.




It won't affect Clarkson. COTY loves him


The Jazz should try playing Whiteside and Gobert at the same time.



On defense, Whiteside covers the paint while Gobert guards the perimeter.



On offense, they switch positions.




Favors at the 4 is already forgotten? Maybe they can Rubio back too!


Butler is looking like he could handle the Jazz's starting point guard duties as a rookie--and thrive in that role. With that in mind, the Jazz could get into the Ben Simmons sweepstakes.



Proposed trade: Conley ($21,000,000), Ingles ($13,036,364), O'Neale ($8,800,000) (totaling $42,836,364) for Simmons ($33,003,936), Seth Curry ($8,207,518), Paul Reed ($1,517,981) (totaling $42,728,435). The trade would have to wait until Conley becomes tradeable as a player, after signing a new free-agent contract this off-season.



New Utah lineup:



PG: Butler, Curry, Forrest (2-way)

SG: Mitchell, Clarkson, Hughes

SF: Bogdanovic, Gay, Oni

PF: Simmons, Paschall, Reed

C: Gobert, Whiteside, Azubuike



I'm not sure Philadelphia could get a better offer for Simmons, and Philadelphia could immediately compete for a title in the Eastern Conference with the additions of Conley, Ingles and O'Neale.



It looks like Butler could pretty much replace Conley's production; Simmons could replace O'Neale's defense and then some, and could replace Ingle's ball-handling; and Curry could replace Ingle's shooting. This trade could be a great move for both teams. And, if Quin and his staff could somehow coach Simmons up to shoot 3-point shots at an average rate, the Jazz could be an NBA dynasty for several years to come with the defense provided by Simmons and Gobert, and the offense provided by Mitchell, Bogdanovic, Clarkson, Butler, Curry and Hughes.

Simmons makes no sense. Conley was one of the best players in the league last year. Why not get rid of the obvious weak link Clarkson instead of 3 of your best players?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/07/utah-jazz-3-studs-1-dud/


The fact that each of Fitts’ made field goals came from three-point range could be indicative of a player who is ready to fill a role that every contending team could use more of: floor-spacing wing. A muscular 6’8 and 230 pounds, Fitts may have the physical profile and athletic tools to develop into a more well-rounded player in time.



muscular with one board. Paschall too. Gobert, Whiteside and O'Neale have to do all the dirty work again?


It was a step in the right direction for the unpolished, physically imposing Utah Jazz big. It was also (slightly) encouraging that Azubuike only committed 3 fouls in 24 minutes of action. That’s not necessarily a fantastic pace, but considering the 5.7 per 36 minutes the young man committed last season, it’s a step in the right direction.



garbage time and pre season time!


Oni will be on the Utah Jazz roster to open the regular season, but if he hopes to find anything more than a garbage time role with the club, he’ll need to deliver stronger performances than the one he did on Wednesday night.



He might not be on the roster and it sounds like his D was great


As previously mentioned, Utah Jazz fans ought not to invest deep emotions in the outcome of this contest. They may be one of the deepest teams in the National Basketball Association, but there’s not a squad in the NBA worth criticizing in a loss without 7 of their most important players. Fans should monitor who suits up in Monday’s action against the New Orleans Pelicans.



aren't they the deepest team in the league every year until they aren't like the playoffs last year? :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

Finally had a chance to watch the game. Was great to see them trying something different defensively. We'll see if they do it when it counts

Paschall's shot looks bad. Has a hitch. Wouldn't count on him improving from the 33% he shot last year

Oni would still be a good energy guy at the end of the bench

Forrest looks good except for his shot

The sooner Butler takes over for Clarkson the better. They would be really small in the back court but if Butler and Conley can play D they might get away with it. His shot release is low though. The guy can flat out play!

Udoka looks alright to me. Just needs to keep working and get time in the Gleague until he's ready

Fitts can shoot. Mavs had a couple guys not on contracts that could be good for the two way spot as well though. I like that it's open for a change

Hughes is looking better. He has his moments. Still not sold on him. Needs to light up the Gleague

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469598/13-utah-jazz-guard-joe-ingles/


The Jazz decision may also be impacted by how deep in the luxury tax the team is, and the asking price for Ingles to return. Furthermore, and somewhat ironically, rookie Jared Butler’s breakout performance in Ingles’ absence over the last two preseason games could also help determine the guard’s future with the roster.



should have nothing to do with it. Clarkson sucks!


With Butler locked into a minimum salary and the team looking to avoid further tax penalties, the Jazz could prefer to let their young guard develop rather than paying the potentially high cost to retain Ingles.



there going to be paying a lot of tax for a long time

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/7/22705863/the-evolution-of-rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba


Gobert is a force. He’s one of the biggest (no pun intended) reasons the Utah Jazz have won a lot of games and made five consecutive playoff appearances. His career is already a success in many respects, punctuated last season when he signed a five-year, $205 million contract (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/12/22/22193242/utah-jazz-rudy-gobert-contract-extension-nba-donovan-mitchell-ryan-smith) extension.



one of? What have they done without him besides lose a lot?


There’s the two All-Star bids, the All-NBA honor, the three Defensive Player of the Year awards and all the advanced metrics that back up the impact that Gobert has on the court. He is truly a decorated athlete who has achieved wild success since his G-League playing days back in 2013.



all NBA honors. all D...


In order to achieve that goal, Whiteside has to mirror, as best as he can, what Gobert does and soak up everything he can from the reigning DPOY. And when they practice, it means that Gobert is going up against a similarly built 7-footer who has the length to challenge Gobert in a way that he hasn’t been challenged in quite some time.



Favors, Bradley, Udoh, Udoka all have great length. Let's not get carried away. Whiteside is on a minumum deal for a reason


“The good thing is that everything is going to be easier in the games because we’re probably the two best rim protectors in the league right now,” he said. “It’s a blessing, a luxury to have us both on the same team and it’s great because we’re both trying to make each other better in practice.”



if he was he wouldn't be backing you up

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/7/22714565/utah-jazz-give-a-glimpse-at-their-ability-to-switch-in-preseason-loss


It’s not something to expect in every game, but there are going to be times when it’s necessary and the Jazz will want to perfect its small lineup long before the postseason, so it’s likely to be something we’ll all see a bit more of.



don't count on it

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/08/utah-jazz-media-underrates-mike-conley/


Russell Westbrook placed one spot ahead of Conley at 13th. Westbrook is one of the most divisive players in the NBA. It wouldn’t be difficult to find thousands of fans who would rank the walking triple-double in the top 3. Conversely, one could find credible NBA observers who would leave the high-volume, low-efficiency point guard out of their top 15 altogether. We’ll accept Russ’s placement ahead of Conley (which is not to suggest that we agree with it). Russ is not far removed from receiving an MVP trophy, and whether he deserved it or not, that’s not an accomplishment Conley has so much as sniffed in his NBA career.



yet Conley was one of the most valuable players last season


De’Aaron Fox, like Morant, has a bright future in the National Basketball Association. With a combination of blinding speed, rush hour ball-handling and advanced court vision, he is the life blood of the Sacramento Kings. Also like Morant, his importance to his team should not merit his ranking ahead of Utah Jazz veteran Mike Conley.



win?

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Asked how the two Rudy G names situation was working out, Rudy Gay had he’s been playing around with the nicknames “Ocho” and “Ocho Papi.” (https://*********.com/social/) Holly Rowe suggested “G Papi” and Rudy said he liked it.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




Eric Walden: Rudy Gay says he’s been dealing with heel pain for 5 years, and finally decided to get it taken care of. There was no specific injury that contributed to the surgery. (https://*********.com/social/) Said he doesn’t have an exact timeline for playing, but notes he’s not the kind of guy to milk an injury.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)







Eric Walden: Rudy Gay said part of the appeal of joining the Jazz was them being the best regular season team in the league last year without him, so he knew there was no pressure for him to rush back (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Mike Conley said his play in the national championship game did help him prepare for the NBA (https://*********.com/social/). That’s something Jared Butler has talked about a lot in preseason as far as calming his nerves. Conley said that might change when he sees SGA and OKC on opening night. #takenote

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





Eric Walden: Mike Conley said that Joe Johnson got him involved with yoga this summer. Told him it would add years to his career. “I’m really feeling it.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




hot yoga!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469687/jazz-president-tv-and-streaming-broadcast-is-top-priority/


After broadcasting the games for free locally on KJZZ, the Jazz agreed to move the team’s broadcasts to AT&T Sports Net in 2009 long before widespread streaming was considered a reliable option to view games.



and their excuse for renewing it this year?


“There will be a great solution and I guarantee it, we’re going to be one of the leaders in that when those opportunities are made available.”



sounds like Trump :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469669/mailbag-can-jared-butler-crack-the-jazz-rotation/


As mentioned, Snyder likes to run a relatively strict nine-man rotation, while finding minutes for players either late in blowouts, or in spot minutes to end quarters as he did at times last season for Miye Oni.



Oni played when someone was injured unless it was multple guys than it was Forrest and others


Heading into the season, it seemed like a foregone conclusion that Eric Paschall would be the Jazz tenth-man, while Trent Forrest and Butler battled it out to be the fifth guard in the rotation.



it did? Oni was 10th man last year and Butler has been hyped from day 1. Forrest showed he could play last year. Paschall is bff. Right now I'd guess they'll go really small with Butler while Gay is out despite bff status for Paschall


However, Butler’s play has been flat-out impressive (https://kslsports.com/469569/jared-butler-breaks-kristaps-porzingis-ankles/) in his two appearances, leading the Jazz in scoring in both games, and doing so with the type of efficiency you don’t traditionally see in rookie guards.



don't know about rookies but you don't see it from 6th man of the year or even best player in franchise history


But, the fact remains that between Donovan Mitchell, Mike Conley, Joe Ingles, and Jordan Clarkson, there aren’t a lot of minutes in the rotation for a guy like Butler unless Snyder can get creative.



if they were smart which they aren't they'd be looking to trade Clarkson right now for a starting 4 or tax relief and assets


First, Snyder can play a three-guard lineup which he has done at times in the preseason by rolling out Mitchell, Butler, and Clarkson in the backcourt with Royce O’Neale and Hassan Whiteside in the frontcourt.



Mitchell and Clarkson. Shit show


The Jazz also started the last game with Forrest, Clarkson, and guard Miye Oni on the floor, hinting again at a willingness to perhaps experiment with smaller lineups and providing room for five guards to see the floor.



Oni with 6'11 wingspan and him and Forrest defend


Second, though I’m a firm believer that Ingles is best with the ball in his hands, he has the size and experience to move up and play in the Jazz frontcourt if needed, operating as a backup forward rather than strictly as a guard.



he's not a 4. He's a one that can play the 2 and 3


Ultimately, we’ve seen Snyder show a real willingness to adjust the team’s rotation to account for his most talented players, as he did for both Mitchell and Gobert as they proved their value on the floor early in their careers.



he hasn't shown it the past two years and it's been costly


It’s early for Butler, butt’s not crazy to believe that he could be in the conversation for one of the nine most talented players on the Jazz team. If that’s the case, Snyder will find a spot for him in the rotation.



not much doubt. Too bad he didn't go to Duke



Do Jordan Clarkson’s teammates like playing with him? He seems to be well liked by the other guys, but I can see how it might be frustrating playing with him when he gets tunnel vision.

— Horace (@h0racethoughts) October 8, 2021 (https://twitter.com/h0racethoughts/status/1446563433642545152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)



When he does? He always does. I wouldn't want to play with him or Mitchell. Hard enough to watch their selfish play


I think it’s fair at points to watch Clarkson dominate a possession and wonder if his teammates end up frustrated by standing on the perimeter, sometimes wide open, only to see the guard put up an unnecessarily difficult shot.



the guy that made the most 3's on the team is their worst shooter!


“A barrage of points just out of nowhere […] you literally throw the ball to him and he makes something happen. He’s making other teams over help, drawing two defenders.”



that would be great if he passed out of a double team but it just makes it even more likely he'll throw up a brick


So to answer the question, in addition to the players loving him off the floor, I think they really like playing with him on the floor. He carries a big weight, and with that, he probably wastes a couple of possessions a game with less than ideal efficiency.



A Couple? He was awful most of the year after a hot start



Let’s imagine the jazz are going to need to get through the lakers, the Suns and the nets (perhaps all 3) to win a title and that somehow none of those teams have major injuries in the playoffs. Somehow we beat them all. How did we do it? Who grew? What was better than last year?

— JazzTahYou (@JohnRandak) October 8, 2021 (https://twitter.com/JohnRandak/status/1446577436502593536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)



Snyder is fired. Clarkson is traded. Mitchell gets his teammates invilved and plays D. They get a starting 4


As for their Finals run, they beat a Lakers team without Anthony Davis, a Denver Nuggets team without Jamal Murray, then a Los Angeles Clippers team without Kawhi Leonard



did what they were supposed to do. Take care of business. Jazz didn't

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469640/12-new-jazz-front-office/


Little attention however was paid to the fact that the Jazz lacked enough adequate defenders elsewhere on the roster to give Snyder and Gobert the tools needed to make their roles more successful.



that's all we've heard and from the little we saw they had several options which COTY refused to even try despite Favors, Niang and Oni doing nothing. Ersan should have been playing. Probably starting


Likewise, Snyder has proven that he’s among the top head coaches in the league and is capable of putting a team in a position to succeed.



he hasn't really though


Zanik has long rumored to like forward Rudy Gay as an option for the Jazz and found a way to land the savvy veteran in his first season at the helm. Though it’s only been two games, Butler looks like the team’s best draft pick since trading for Donovan Mitchell in 2017.



not saying much


How Eric Paschall and Hassan Whiteside will contribute remains to be seen, but reveal a willingness for the team’s front office to bring in players who align the traditional “Jazz DNA” that had been a staple under Lindsey.



Whiteside certainly doesn't have it. Paschall might but he'd here because of bff status

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/8/22713830/utah-jazz-insiders-newsletter-veterans-stay-engaged-even-when-resting


During timeouts Gobert took Bolden to the side and gave him pointers, Jazz head coach Quin Snyder (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2020/12/7/22158571/quin-snyder-nba-utah-jazz-jordan-clarkson-derrick-favors-donovan-mitchell) called Fitts over and explained plays and gave him tips, and Mitchell was often the first player on his feet, cheering on the young prospects and calling out coverages.



Mitchell probably isn't the guy that should be calling out defenses :facepalm


It’s hard to believe that it’s been three years since the Jazz signed forward Jeff Green (https://www.deseret.com/2019/10/10/20908159/jeff-green-hoping-his-unselfish-play-propels-jazz) in the offseason, hoping that he would be able to give the team more versatility and depth. Instead, Green never really worked out for the Jazz after his 2019 signing and was eventually waived by the team (https://www.deseret.com/sports/2019/12/23/21036208/utah-jazz-jeff-green-sign-rayjon-tucker-from-nba-g-league) before the season was halfway over.



and they still don't have a starting 4

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/08/utah-jazz-rudy-gobert-best-center/


Utah Jazz: Is Rudy Gobert the best center in franchise history?

:roll:


His lack of offensive ability simply didn’t matter for an attack that was built around Stockton and Malone’s historic pick-and-roll chemistry. Ostertag’s role was to bully opposing players, and protect the rim, and he did each exceedingly well.



and hit the offensive glass


Big Al Jefferson could have had an opportunity to rank higher on this list, if he hadn’t spent a mere three seasons as a member of the Utah Jazz. He may, in fact, be the best offensive center in Utah Jazz history.



an inefficient black hole :facepalm


Furthermore, the Jazz were not a very competitive club over the course of Jefferson’s stay. In his debut season, they went 36-30 in a lockout-shortened 2010-11, squeaking into the playoffs only to suffer a first round elimination. They would miss the playoffs in each of his next two seasons. Surely, Jefferson’s shaky rim protection didn’t do the team any favors.



his offense probably hurt them more


Jefferson narrowly gets the nod over Ostertag because ultimately, offense is more important than defense. It’s simply difficult to say that Greg Ostertag was a better basketball player than Al Jefferson with a straight face.



one of the best offensive rebounders and shot blockers in the game or an inefficient black hole? Easy choice for me


Throw Mehmet Okur into the modern NBA, and his floor-spacing could juice a quality NBA offense. Pair him with a defensive-minded power forward, and it’s not hard to imagine him earning starter minutes in 2021.



likely a back up because of D


Here at the J-Notes, we’ve already spilled considerable ink (https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/02/utah-jazz-mark-eaton-awarded/) in the name of the late (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/13/utah-jazz-time-teams/), great Mark Eaton (https://thejnotes.com/2021/09/10/utah-jazz-underrated-players-history/). There are three reasons for that. The first is his recent, tragic passing. The second is that the NBA offseason is an ideal time for reflection on the franchise’s history, which Eaton was a very significant part of. The third, and most important reason, is that Mark Eaton was absolutely incredible.



he sucked


In fact, it’s a two man race, with Mark Eaton being the only other center in the team’s history worth consideration for the honor. Defensively, the two all-time greats are remarkably comparable. Each sports a career Defensive Rating of 100, although it’s worth noting that Gobert’s career, of course, is ongoing. Gobert has certainly never sniffed a blocks per game average in the vicinity of 5.6 per game, but again, raw counting stats do not necessarily reflect a player’s entire value.



Rich Kelly


The Utah Jazz will enter the 2021-22 season with fantasies of the Larry O’Brien trophy, and deservingly so. However, hopefully they can find some moments for somber appreciation of the fact that they’re watching the best center in the franchise’s history, as well.



watching the 3rd best player in franchise history and it's not close

[Xiao Yao You]

Sarah Todd: Bojan Bogdanovic was a full participant in practice with the Jazz yesterday and today (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)




Eric Walden: Jordan Clarkson said Jazz practices have been very physical this season, with several players winding up with bloody lips, or scratches and scrapes. (https://*********.com/social/) He lifted up his shirt at one point to reveal a long scratch mark, noting, “Even my tattoos can’t cover that.”
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)






Ben Anderson: Jordan Clarkson on how the @Utah Jazz are approaching the regular season. “We’ve got to break it down 20 games at a time, five games at a time, one game at a time.” (https://*********.com/social/) #takenote | @kslsports
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)






Eric Walden: Told of Rudy Gay’s proposed “G Papi” nickname, Jordan Clarkson laughed and said, “I ain’t calling no grown man ‘Papi’!” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert, who has sat out both of the Jazz’s first two preseason games, says he sees pros and cons to preseason play. He said he’d personally like to play on Monday, (https://*********.com/social/) but he also trusts the coaching staff’d decision, and said he’s getting plenty of run in practices.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Marc Stein: The Warriors say they have waived Langston Galloway (https://*********.com/social/).

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




he'd be worth looking at

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Hassan Whiteside said the @Utah Jazz are a uniquely close group. Mentioned the team’s group chat being different than a lot of teams he’s played for (https://*********.com/social/). Said Mitchell and Gobert are different than he expected before joining the team.
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)





Eric Walden: Hassan Whiteside, on his practice battles with Rudy Gobert: “We beat the hell out of each other during the day, and then we play Call of Duty together at night.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/10/utah-jazz-3-goals-bogdanovic-2021-22/4/


If the first goal in this slide was a pipe dream, and the second was too modest, this one feels like a solid compromise. If Bogdanovic was able to post a career high in assists per game in the 2021-22 season, it could provide his Utah Jazz with a tremendous boost.



no it wouldn't. He's a horrible passer and dribbler. Best if he just catches and shoots off the bench instead of Clarkson ideally

[Xiao Yao You]

In the midst of Utah Jazz fans being frustrated over the lack of ability to stream games during the upcoming season, the team on Monday announced a second option to do just that. “In the coming days,” fuboTV, a streaming service that emphasizes sports, will start carrying AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain, the television home of the Utah Jazz, (https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/11/22720624/utah-jazz-announce-game-streaming-option) NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights and MLB’s Colorado Rockies. The announcement said it will first launch in Utah and Nevada and “the surrounding areas” and expand in the future.
– via Ryan McDonald @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/11/22720624/utah-jazz-announce-game-streaming-option)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/11/22720873/att-sportsnet-has-announced-a-partnership-with-fubotv-to-stream-utah-jazz-games


The release from AT&T Sportsnet said the streaming will be available in the coming days and so Jazz fans wanting this option may need to be a little patient, but the Utah Jazz (https://www.slcdunk.com) deserve some credit here. Even though this isn’t a perfect solution, it is something. The ownership group before Ryan Smith created a lot of this mess with not much foresight in the deals they made. And they did next to nothing to make the situation better. Smith, and the Jazz, have obviously been working to improve the situation for Jazz fans who have been clamoring for this option, especially after Dish Network and AT&T Sportsnet recently ended their relationship. (https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/1/22705062/dish-network-has-dropped-att-sportsnet-and-the-utah-jazz-streaming-option) It remains to be seen what the future is for watching Jazz basketball for Jazz fans but this is a step in the right direction. You can bet the partnership with AT&T Sportsnet will be something to watch this year and we’ll see if another contract is signed.



Smith extended the deal

[Xiao Yao You]

Marc Stein: Kosta Koufos, the 11-year veteran NBA center, is signing with the Ignite select team in the @nbagleague, (https://*********.com/social/) league sources say. Koufos had multiple European offers but will join the Ignite instead.

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



cool. Big fan

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Bojan Bogdanovic: “I feel great. Obviously, I had a little shoulder problem. I’m not 100%, but I’m healthy and I feel great. I’m excited to play tonight.” (https://*********.com/social/)

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



not 100%? Excuses already?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/10/22720153/utah-jazz-play-first-preseason-home-game-against-the-new-orleans-pelicans-donovan-mitchell


It's a great problem to have. But finding Butler some minutes and touches when everyone is playing will be tough. There are Mike's 13 shots a game when he sits. I still think if he does explode he should get his minutes and touches from JC and if possible we trade JC for a more 3 and D guy who doesn't need the ball so much, JC was great when our bench was crap but now we can put good players on the court for the whole 48 minutes by staggering our rotations. Our biggest weakness is still another strong wing defender. We have enough offense when everyone is healthy.

someone gets it. Clarkson is the obvious weak link besides the coach. Need a starting 4 still


"If Quin Snyder isn’t willing to make tough decisions to make that happen, the front office will have to."

This is the most important sentence by Hansen.



Although I like Q but I am willing to part ways with him if he remains stubborn.

1) He needs to find mins for promising younger players (Butler and next Hughes)

2) He needs to learn to adjust the system and read the floor

3) He should not add so much wear on tear on starting line up by playing them tons of mins such as full squad on mode with 2 mins remaining while we are up by 20.


If guys earn minutes they need to play. Hughes hasn't proven he belongs even in the Gleague yet and for that matter neither has Butler though he certainly looks like a great reason to dump Clarkson on some dumb fool!


Snyder has been willing to play rookies or young players in the past when those players show they can contribute. How many of UTA's young/development players have left the team and found major minutes with a new franchise (I honestly don't know but my guess is not many)? If the players can't earn minutes, it's usually for a reason.





he's played guys in the past regardless besides the last two years when apparently he was trying to get the Wizard fired. Not sure if any of them deserved to play when they did

3) He should not add so much wear on tear on starting line up by playing them tons of mins such as full squad on mode with 2 mins remaining while we are up by 20.


UTA's deep bench has been really terrible for several seasons. If those players can't hold their own against opposing teams' deep benches, there's little reason to believe those players would do better with more minutes against even better competition.


and yet every year we hear how deep they are! :roll:



The Jazz greatly overachieved last season, as they have every season under Quin.



all I know is they beat LAC and Denver the last two years if Snyder makes adjustments


No, that's not what I'm saying. You can criticize Coach Q all you want. I've criticized him as well. My analysis wasn't meant to say that he is perfect. It is meant to show that he has done more with less than any other coach in the league (looking strictly at draft position).

says more about Gobert who they've never done anything without


Sure, the FO should get some credit, and of course the players should get a lot of credit, but so should the coach. Does anyone think that Gobert would be as impactful under any other coach? Or Jingles? We saw that Clarkson had his best season after going to Utah, and Conley had nearly his best season at age 33.

Gobert worked to get where he is. Other rim runners and rim protectors in the league so yes I see no reason why he wouldn't still be great. Ingles is a 40% shooter. Again he put in the work. Ultimate team guy. Not hard to see him doing it elsewhere. Clarkson sucks. Conley got to play with Gobert so yes great season. Nothing new. Hill, Rubio...


And maybe me bitching on a fan site is pointless and maybe no one from the fo cares what the fans think. But believe it or not, ownership cares about fans opinions. They don't care what I think on a individual level, but if the sentiment among fans is that last year was wildly unacceptable and people need to be held accountable, they'll hear it if we make enough noise.

as we saw with Sloan to most fans they can do little wrong


He deserves credit for hiring some good assistants like Jensen and Bryant who are are more involved in the day-to-day player development and the players seem to really give a lot of credit to.




and weren't they both already here? Bryant was for sure

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/11/ringer-compares-utah-jazz-nba-champions/


Devine touches on many of the talking points that, as Jazz specialists, we’ve been harping on for months here at the J-Notes. Most notably, he opinions that Rudy Gay (https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/10/recent-utah-jazz-pain-5-years/) at the 5 formations could be an effective counter to the sorts of 5-out lineups that ultimately sunk the Jazz in the Western Conference semi-finals this season.



could be so could Ersan have been. Same coach same problem


As Devine notes, those are difficult assignments for the 6’4, 225-pound Royce O’Neale. For all of his defensive IQ and general toughness, he’s simply too small to be expected to handle some of the NBA’s more physically imposing forwards on a consistent basis.



yet he starts at the 4 for the 3rd straight year! :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/the-finally-balanced-jazz-eye-contention-after-years-of-pendulum-swings/


Dennis Lindsey, who recently ended his 9-year tenure as Utah’s general manager when he stepped down in June, was the mastermind largely responsible for the team the Jazz developed over years of moves and decisions that culminated in a top seeded team last year.

got lucky with Gobert. What else did he do?



Ricky Rubio was brought in to be a playmaker to replace George Hill (who had a fantastic season, maybe one of his career best, despite playing only half the season). Rubio, however, is not a three-point threat. The dual-big frontcourt of Derrick Favors and Rudy Gobert exacerbated some of those spacing problems.



made no sense. Wasted two more years of Gobert's prime


A team lacking consistent 3-point ability missed too many important shots, and we saw night after night where defenses clogged the paint as a result. Utah still made it a successful season with their rookie leading the way, ultimately reaching the second round. But the holes were glaring. They were obvious and they pushed the pendulum up and to the right (in the worst way).



the rookie that had them closer to the worst record in the league than the playoffs until Gobert came back to carry them or another one?


From there, the objective seemed clear. Fix the offensive and spacing issues and hope Gobert’s singular talent as a paint protector would be enough to anchor another top 5 defense. In other words, the pendulum swung back the other way.



swung too far. Now the D needs help and a starting 4


The Jazz added Bojan Bogdanovic and Mike Conley to replace a pair of non outside-shooting starters. They acquired Jordan Clarkson mid-season to add shooting and dynamism to their bench. But once again, this swing brought its own costs and overcorrections. Favors, who had been filling in in most of the backup center minutes behind Gobert in addition to his 10 or so nightly minutes at PF, left for New Orleans. This constituted a big step back for the second-team defense.



too bad Clarkson can't shoot


But the pendulum swung too far: offense improvements came at the expense of the the defense. The Gobert-led defense was still phenomenal in the center’s minutes, but the non-Rudy minutes were a disaster on that end. Conley was still adjusting to the team, Donovan was still growing as a player.



those minutes have never been good despite all the talk of them not losing anything with Favors in


With that balance finally achieved, another hole became obvious in the Jazz’s series against the LA Clippers: the lack of rotation flexibility prevented the Jazz from stopping the 5-out strategy used in the second-round1 (https://saltcityhoops.com/the-finally-balanced-jazz-eye-contention-after-years-of-pendulum-swings/#note-1).



they had plenty of flexibility. Just didn't have a coach to make the changes needed


Each season, the problems were identified and addressed. Each time, the team got better and more balanced — even if it wasn’t always immediately clear in the record or postseason outcomes. And each time, the pendulum swing needed to zero in on championship contention was slightly smaller. This time around, they’ll bring back the top seven players from a rotation that produced elite offensive and defensive results, complemented by flexible and versatile end-of-rotation pieces.



still waiting for them to get a starting 4, a new coach and new 6th man

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469900/karl-malone-announces-partnership-with-utah-food-bank/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/11/utah-jazz-rudy-gobert-working-new-weapon/

not what they need. Be nice if he could hit the mid range when he has the ball on the dribble hand off or the short hook on occasion. Get him the ball when he has a smaller guy on him for starters

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/11/utah-jazz-fifth-best-odds-championship/


WynnBet has the Jazzmen’s title odds a +1400, which leaves them behind only the Brooklyn Nets (+225), Los Angeles Lakers (+375), Milwaukee Bucks (+900), and Golden State Warriors (+1000).



not worried about the Lakers of the Nets

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Jared Butler has a non-COVID illness and will not play tonight (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469925/jazz-starters-look-ready-for-regular-season-vs-pelicans/


After proving to be one of the deadliest offensive weapons in the NBA over the last several postseasons, Mitchell hinted that there may still be room to grow on the defensive side of the ball.



from not playing any D to playing some? Obviously there's room


“I think he doesn’t realize what you can do defensively if he puts his mind to it,” Gobert said of his All-Star teammate.



he's never put his mind to it


It's really hard to replicate what Rudy Gobert does on the floor. Going to take a little time for him to find that rhythm.

— Ben Anderson (@BensHoops) October 12, 2021 (https://twitter.com/BensHoops/status/1447742628221517825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)



like never?


“Rudy’s pretty unique,” Snyder said of his superstar center. “Hassan has that same type of length and I think those are plays that I know we want him to make and that he wants to make and is capable of making”



asking way too much


Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson replaced Bogdanovic eight minutes into the game while Eric Paschall subbed in for Mitchell with two and a half minutes left in the opening frame.



you'd think you might want to play Mitchell and his bff together


Paschall’s minutes will likely belong to Rudy Gay once he returns from offseason heel surgery, but the former Golden State Warriors forward made the most of his minutes in his first game at Vivint Arena. The third-year forward scored 14 points on 6-7 shooting and was a bench high +15 in 16 minutes for the rehabbing Gay.



he can score. His shot is ugly. Clarkson is expendable


The Jazz were without rookie Jared Butler who missed the game due to a non-COVID illness. In his absence, second-year two-way guard Trent Forrest was the Jazz 10th man but had to leave the game after slipping and hitting his head in the first half.



he looked more like the 9th man and Paschall the 10th. I'm guessing they might play even smaller with Butler

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469919/clarkson-freezes-pelicans-defense-with-pass-fake-finish/


The guard was forced to play extended minutes after reserve guard Trent Forrest went down in the first half with a head injury. Forrest slipped defensively after challenging a Pelicans shot at the rim.



16 other guys available and he was forced into playing?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/12/22722731/dwyane-wades-son-is-reportedly-expected-to-join-the-salt-lake-city-stars

only 19. Interesting

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/11/22720272/instant-analysis-jazz-starters-make-easy-work-of-pelicans-in-win-at-home-utah-jazz-nba


We all know what to expect from Donovan Mitchell on the offensive side of the ball, but on Monday night he looked pretty exceptional on the defensive end. He’s continued to say that he needs to improve on that end and if he wants to enter the superstar tier of the league, upping his defensive game would take him there. I know it’s just a preseason game, but I have to think that if he’s giving that kind of effort in a game that doesn’t matter, he’ll probably be even better when it counts.



believe it when I see it


Things still look pretty clunky for Whiteside. Watched him working with Mitchell after practice on Sunday and he said that he was trying to get a feel for the pick-and-roll with Mitchell versus what it looks like from Mike Conley and Joe Ingles, which is a really fair point because all of those guys play the PNR differently. But it looks like it will probably take a little more time for Whiteside to get the feel of things.



stick with Conley, Ingles and Butler in the pick and roll

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.slcdunk.com/2021/10/11/22721951/utah-jazz-dominate-the-new-orleans-pelicans-for-first-preseason-win


It’s not something to expect, but maybe something to hope for that Donovan Mitchell can take another step this year on the defensive end. He carries a huge offensive load so it remains to be seen if he can play at a high level defensively every night, but it’s fair to say that the Jazz need Donovan Mitchell’s defense to improve if they want a real chance at a title this year. Mitchell had 18 points and 5 assists. He actually struggled a bit in the first half forcing things, but he’ll be more than fine offensively this season. It’s that playmaking and defense the Jazz need.



Gobert plays a huge offensive role and yet still plays the other end. Bullshit excuse


Some interesting notes. Hassan Whiteside struggled to find a rhythm tonight. In a game the Jazz won by 31, he was a -2. It will be interesting to see how Quin Snyder adjusts when Whiteside is struggling. Tonight, he brought in Eric Paschall to replace him. Paschall had some nice moments playing off of Gobert, something that seems to help everyone, but that versatility for Paschall to play the center position helps Utah bring a variety of looks. Whiteside needs to figure things out quickly because the Jazz have options this year like they didn’t have last year. When Rudy Gay comes back, Snyder can play him at center and the Jazz can go small in a variety of ways.



He had options last year. Didn't use them


He got blown by a ton, which is the #1 thing I'm looking at this year from our perimeter defenders. Can they just kinda stay in front of a dude with the ball. It's not like NO ran out their top dudes, and collectively we had great hands last night, but I saw multiple instances where DM offered no resistance to the ball handler who ended up with a layup.



Also, preseason, so it probably means exactly nothing.



it would mean nothing if it wasn't what he's always done


His handle and ability to drive on bigger and slower players is high level. Even if all he gets is garbage time, I think he will be a huge reason why the Jazz can trust their bench to close out a game. Also, his ability to finish at the rim looks solid. His effort on both ends of the floor could make the rotational decisions that much harder for Snyder which is a good thing. When you have 2-3 guys vying for that last 10 spot that is great.

should have had that last year. Not like Oni was the only option


Felt bad for Forrest. It is already looking like he is moving down to 12-14 on the rotation. Having a concussion, in addition to the medical concern, just about solidifies that since he will likely miss the next preseason game as well.

it is? Looked like he was the 9th man to me so maybe 11th with Butler and Gay


Mike still using Rudy screens to get and nail 3 of 4 3's. Joe did Joe stuff. I thought JC played within the offense as well as he ever has and then had that great 1:15 minute stretch in the fourth where he had 8 points and 1 assist. So explosive. Eric looked real good with attacking the basket and was 1/2 from 3. Royce had his usual 2/4 from 3 but NO really had no big guns to stop so didn't see to be as involved in the game.

we've seen that from Clarkson before. Doubt we'll see much of it when it counts


Yeah Rudy had 19/19/2/2/1 in 23 minutes. And you could say that it's just preseason, but he spent a lot of his time being guarded by Valancunias who is a legit big in the league. Rudy seemed much quicker in his decision making whether it was passing or finishing with a quick bank shot. I think I only remember 1 turnover where he got stuck in the paint and stripped which used to happen a lot. When he and Conley are on the floor, it just feels like the Jazz have complete control over the game.

and yet all we will hear is how great the franchise's best player ever is


He seemed to be really struggling with knowing where to be on the court. I thought his 2nd half shifts he really focused on setting screens for Donny and JC and did much better. He is huge and I think him seeing them make some easy shots off his screens will make him continue to work on improving this area of the game

I doubt it. He's on a minimum deal for a reason


Defensively he is a presence. Nothing spectacular but his size alone acts as a deterrent to teams attacking the basket like they did Derrick.



not much longer than Favors


I am optimistic he will work out. Ed Davis he is not. I remember seeing Davis in his first game with us and just thinking the guy was small with skinny legs. No way he could be an effective screener or a defensive presence.




and yet he had been his whole career


I hope he figures it out, but I think we'll all be missing Favors throughout the season. Whiteseide looks washed up. He's never been known for his basketball IQ and playing in Quin's system is going to accentuate that weakness. Maybe we can package Whiteside and Azubuike for Nerlens Noel.

Clarkson/Whiteside for a starting 4 that can play some 5 ideally. Udoka has time


On the flip side, if Whiteside doesn't pan out early on, The Jazz could potentially trade Oni to free up some cap space and a roster spot (for a 2nd rounder) and pick up Aron Baynes who is still a free agent. I really liked his game a few years back and it doesn't ever hurt. With Butler and Gay coming in mixed with a lack of progression from Oni makes me feel like a 2nd would be reasonable and added depth helpful. And even if he can't shoot a 3 all that well, he can hit a jumper and is a solid PnR player. I know the Jazz like Buike, but I just don't see him making it in the NBA. He is too slow. He won't be able to do what Gobert does by coming out to the 3 point line and then recovering.




they can just cut Oni and they might. Good guy to have at the end of the bench though.

[Xiao Yao You]

Antoni Daimiel: “We may be heading to Ricky Rubio’s last year in the NBA. If he finishes the season in Cleveland, there’s a chance he will return to Spain” (https://cadenaser.com/programa/2021/10/12/el_larguero/1634028890_735486.html).

– via Cadena SER @ SER (https://cadenaser.com/programa/2021/10/12/el_larguero/1634028890_735486.html)



adios! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Trent Forrest is officially in the NBA’s concussion protocol per the @Utah Jazz (https://*********.com/social/) after last night’s scary fall.
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Nehm: The 4:30 p.m. Bucks injury report for tomorrow night’s game in Utah against the Jazz: (https://*********.com/social/) Donte DiVincenzo – OUT – left ankle surgery Semi Ojeleye – OUT – left calf strain Bobby Portis – OUT – left hamstring strain And that is currently it. The injury report, it is shrinking.
– via Twitter eric_nehm (https://twitter.com/eric_nehm)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50260837/back-to-his-roots-will-donovan-mitchell-take-a-step-forward-defensively-this-season-


"Granted, it is just preseason but that's been my mindset all summer," Mitchell said. "Yeah, I was on one leg last year, but I can be better. I've been vocal about that, so for me, just being able to do it consistently. It's one game. I did it in a preseason game; now I've got to continue to do it throughout the year."



be hard to be worse

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50260193/can-the-jazz-survive-when-rudy-gobert-sits-


Can the Jazz survive when Rudy Gobert sits?

just hope he doesn't get hurt again


But with the Jazz's first regular season game just over a week away, will Whiteside be comfortable by then? Or will Utah spend more time playing a small-ball lineup, that it experimented with again with some success on Monday?



don't count on small ball

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469992/jazz-wont-have-black-and-white-jersey-this-season/


The Jazz will wear their traditional white association jerseys, blue icon jerseys, yellow statement jerseys, and black and orange city edition (https://kslsports.com/446110/jazz-unveil-revamped-dark-mode-city-edition-jersey/) jerseys through the team’s 82 game schedule.



too bad

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/469961/8-jazz-guard-jordan-clarkson/


After a brilliant start to the season that saw Clarkson average 18 points (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/c/clarkjo01/gamelog/2021) per game on 44 percent shooting from the floor and 37 percent from the three-point line, the guard’s scoring average jumped to 18.9 points per game over the final 29 games of the season, but his efficiency plummeted shooting just 40 percent from the floor and 31 percent from the three-point line.



shit show


As fans have looked at external additions to improve the team, a more consistent Clarkson, throughout the season could provide the Jazz with an enormous boost come playoff time.



be even better if Butler replaced him!


The Jazz second unit should be helped by the addition of rookie Jared Butler who shined in the team’s first two preseason games. Butler has shown off the ability to both operate as a playmaker in the pick and roll and a go-to scoring option which could limit the number of bad possessions Clarkson has to finish off the bench.



and who is Butler replacing?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/13/utah-jazz-mitchell-guards-history/4/


Recently, we named Rudy Gobert the best center (https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/08/utah-jazz-rudy-gobert-best-center/) in Utah Jazz history. We’d love to claim that the Jazz currently roster the best guard in the annals of their franchise as well, but it’s just not realistic. Instead, Donovan Mitchell will have to settle for third place overall in these rankings.



I know he's the best player in franchise history but he's not better than a HOFer yet. I'd guess the Jazz with Horny would be a better team than they are with Mitchell too


The margins between active Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell and former franchise player Deron Williams are arguably narrow. The 26.4 points per game Mitchell averaged last season trump any scoring output Williams was able to produce during his tenure in Salt Lake City. Furthermore, the Jazz’s 52-20 record from last season was a comfortably more successful season than any the club managed during Williams’ time with the organization.



Deron over a HOFer too? He's certainly ahead of Mitchell. Was the best player on his team. Mitchell isn't in the top two despite being the best in franchise history


Current Utah Jazz superstar Donovan Mitchell ought not to be comparing himself to past franchise stars, but in the event that he is, he should be chasing Deron Williams aggressively. On the other hand, there are catastrophic world events that feel more likely than anybody ever taking John Stockton’s position as the best guard in Utah Jazz history.



he already has according to Stephen Smith! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

Sarah Todd: Joe Ingles will not play tonight (rest) in the Jazz’s final preseason game (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter NBASarah (https://twitter.com/NBASarah)

[Xiao Yao You]

Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith shared details, sort of, Wednesday on a rebranding effort first noted by sharp-eyed fans that have been speculating on social media the past few weeks. (https://www.deseret.com/utah/2021/10/13/22724664/utah-jazz-owner-ryan-smith-confirms-rebrand-is-a-thing-silicon-slopes-dwyane-wade) Some of those changes to team assets include the well-known J-note sculpture outside of the Vivint Smart Home Arena, which was repainted in a black-and-white color scheme earlier this week.
– via Art Raymond @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/utah/2021/10/13/22724664/utah-jazz-owner-ryan-smith-confirms-rebrand-is-a-thing-silicon-slopes-dwyane-wade)




Smith, who was onstage with minority co-owner and former NBA star Dwyane Wade at the opening day of the Silicon Slopes Summit, said change is definitely afoot and the new color scheme would be black and white but other combinations, too. (https://www.deseret.com/utah/2021/10/13/22724664/utah-jazz-owner-ryan-smith-confirms-rebrand-is-a-thing-silicon-slopes-dwyane-wade) Smith said the team will try new things and “push, push, push” to determine what works and what doesn’t, not just with branding elements like uniform color and fonts but with the whole organization.
– via Art Raymond @ deseret.com (https://www.deseret.com/utah/2021/10/13/22724664/utah-jazz-owner-ryan-smith-confirms-rebrand-is-a-thing-silicon-slopes-dwyane-wade)






Andy Larsen: Ryan Smith to Dwyane Wade on Jazz branding: “I’ll never forget when you called me and you’re like, ‘Hey, my mom wants to know what the Jazz colors are, and we can’t figure it out.'” (https://*********.com/social/) “We’re not just going to have two colors, it’s not just going to be black or white.”
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)

[Xiao Yao You]

Chris Fedor: #Cavs are signing forward Ed Davis to a contract; (https://*********.com/social/) Also signing Justin James to their training camp roster.
– via Twitter ChrisFedor (https://twitter.com/ChrisFedor)

[Xiao Yao You]

Veteran big man Ed Davis received a one-year, non-guaranteed contract. (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/10/cleveland-cavaliers-sign-veteran-ed-davis-to-non-guaranteed-deal-add-swingman-justin-james-to-camp-roster.html) A source tells cleveland.com that coach J.B. Bickerstaff pushed for the acquisition of the 32-year-old Davis, known around the league as one of the best locker-room guys and mentors.
– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/10/cleveland-cavaliers-sign-veteran-ed-davis-to-non-guaranteed-deal-add-swingman-justin-james-to-camp-roster.html)




How long Davis remains on the roster is uncertain at this point, but he’s expected to fill the last spot to start the year, (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/10/cleveland-cavaliers-sign-veteran-ed-davis-to-non-guaranteed-deal-add-swingman-justin-james-to-camp-roster.html) giving the Cavaliers more frontcourt depth — and another trusted voice that can help guide this young roster.
– via Chris Fedor @ Cleveland Plain Dealer (https://www.cleveland.com/cavs/2021/10/cleveland-cavaliers-sign-veteran-ed-davis-to-non-guaranteed-deal-add-swingman-justin-james-to-camp-roster.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

JD Shaw: The Bucks signed Rayjon Tucker to an Exhibit 10 contract, (https://*********.com/social/) according to a league source. Tucker holds NBA experience with the Jazz and Sixers. He also played 16 games with Wisconsin back in 2019-20.
– via Twitter JShawNBA (https://twitter.com/JShawNBA)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Jared Butler and Elijah Hughes are both AVAILABLE tonight (https://*********.com/social/)

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




something wrong with Hughes?

[Xiao Yao You]

The Jump: “He’s like a smooth talking guy” — @Hassan Whiteside on his new head coach Quin Snyder (https://*********.com/social/) #NBATwitter #TakeNote pic.twitter.com/VxoWVjLqM5

[Xiao Yao You]

Dwyane Wade knows what outsiders think about Utah. He remembers, especially, what NBA players thought of Utah. “It just never felt like a place where I felt like I was wanted,” Wade remembered. (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/14/dwyane-wade-says/) “The warmth, it wasn’t there. And a lot of players around the NBA feel that. Coming here, you don’t feel like you have places to go, things to do. … It didn’t feel inviting for you to get out and do things, like New York.”
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/14/dwyane-wade-says/)




“The perception of Utah is not our reality. I understand perception because I come from inner-city Chicago — a black man in America. I understand what I’m perceived as in a lot of rooms I walk in, but also understand once you get to know me more, once you peel back the layers, the reality is not what you see,” Wade explained. “And that’s the Utah state.” (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/14/dwyane-wade-says/)
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/14/dwyane-wade-says/)






In fact, that was part of Ryan Smith’s sales pitch to Wade in joining the Jazz’s ownership group, over, say, joining forces with the team he represented as a player, the Miami Heat. “That was the pitch to Dwyane: ‘Hey, do you want to go with the state that we can help change?’ You can change Utah and get stuff done. You’re not changing New York,” Smith said (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/14/dwyane-wade-says/).
– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2021/10/14/dwyane-wade-says/)

[Xiao Yao You]

goin' miss George


Lauren Rosen: Georges Niang on how he’s acclimated to his new @Philadelphia 76ers teammates over the past two weeks: “I would say it’s night and day. I think I know everybody’s name at this point.” (https://*********.com/social/tweets/) https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/13.1.0/svg/1f923.svg

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

[Xiao Yao You]

Now in retirement, Manu Ginobili admits he wishes he was playing in today’s high-paced NBA style. To celebrate the league’s 75th anniversary, he spoke with the NBA about his time in the league and likes what he sees on the court from today’s game. “If I could choose which era, I’d like to play now,” said Ginobili. “Fast paced. A lot of threes. A lot of possessions.” “I would have loved to have played in this time and be 28 (years old) now,” he said (https://www.kens5.com/article/sports/nba/spurs/ginobili-playing-in-todays-nba-era-gives-his-top-1-one-1-players-and-more-spurs-nba-san-antonio/273-7da7af39-9486-43a6-94d6-77fdeb1ab0d8).
– via Jeff Garcia @ Kens5.com (https://www.kens5.com/article/sports/nba/spurs/ginobili-playing-in-todays-nba-era-gives-his-top-1-one-1-players-and-more-spurs-nba-san-antonio/273-7da7af39-9486-43a6-94d6-77fdeb1ab0d8)

Top Rumors (https://*********.com/category/top-rumors/), Manu Ginobili (https://*********.com/player/manu-ginobili/)


(https://*********.com/storyline/old-school-vs-new-school/) When asked to give his best one-on-one players, his list reads of some of the best to ever play the game. “Well, I would think offensively, there are three guys, four, that are basically unstoppable one-on-one,” he said. “Michael Jordan is the first one. Kobe [Bryant], KD [Kevin Durant] and Steph [Stephen Curry].” How about the players he wishes he can face in his prime? “I would like to play in my prime when I was fast enough… for example Zach [LaVine], even though I played against him, would be a great player to match up against,” he said. “Donovan Mitchell. He’s impressive and impressive set of skills.” (https://www.kens5.com/article/sports/nba/spurs/ginobili-playing-in-todays-nba-era-gives-his-top-1-one-1-players-and-more-spurs-nba-san-antonio/273-7da7af39-9486-43a6-94d6-77fdeb1ab0d8)
– via Jeff Garcia @ Kens5.com (https://www.kens5.com/article/sports/nba/spurs/ginobili-playing-in-todays-nba-era-gives-his-top-1-one-1-players-and-more-spurs-nba-san-antonio/273-7da7af39-9486-43a6-94d6-77fdeb1ab0d8)

[Xiao Yao You]

While getting in a workout at Utah’s practice facility during an off day, Gobert met Jazz assistant coach Alex Jensen, who was also in his first year with the team. They connected quickly. (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship) “Alex was the one guy that I felt like believed,” Gobert says. “Obviously the organization believed in me, or else they wouldn’t have drafted me. But on the coaching staff, Alex was the guy. We naturally got drawn to one another.” Jensen appreciated how Gobert would be in there every single day. “I don’t have to ask. He’s asking me,” Jensen says. “And he wants to play really bad and he thinks he should. So I thought, ‘This is something you can work with.’” But Gobert wasn’t playing, averaging under 10 minutes while appearing in just over half of the Jazz’s games as a rookie. He missed more shots than he made, and logged more fouls than blocks. Gobert instead started in the G League. But he didn’t want to. He came to the United States to play in the NBA, not the G League. “I saw that as a failure at first,” Gobert says.
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)




Jensen is the only member of the coaching staff who’s been in Utah as long as Gobert, having stayed on after Quin Snyder replaced Tyrone Corbin. The two have grown close. Jensen visits Saint-Quentin for Gobert’s annual basketball camps. Jensen’s wife is friends with Gobert’s mom, and his two young daughters think every basketball player is named Rudy. Gobert calls Jensen “pretty much family,” and it’s important to him that he’s always honest. “Having someone that I feel like tells me the truth and not just what I want to hear, in this league and in life in general, is what I’ve been trying to do,” Gobert says. (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship) “I think a lot of guys would rather surround themselves with people that just tell them yes, yes, yes. Sometimes it’s not always good for your growth.”
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Milwaukee Bucks have requested waivers on guard Elijah Bryant. (https://www.nba.com/bucks/release/milwaukee-bucks-request-waivers-elijah-bryant) Bryant appeared in four preseason games with the Bucks and averaged 10.8 points in 19.9 minutes per game.

– via NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/bucks/release/milwaukee-bucks-request-waivers-elijah-bryant)





Tony Jones: The Utah Jazz have signed forward Nino Johnson (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter (https://twitter.com/Tjonesonthenba)

Nino for the Stars I assume

[Xiao Yao You]

https://gleague.nba.com/player/nino-johnson/

looks like a vet for their front court

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz have waived forward Derrick Alston Jr., forward/center Marques Bolden and guard MaCio Teague (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-waive-three-players).

– via NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-waive-three-players)




Stars roster coming together.

Johnson, Bolden, Alston, Teague, Forrest, Udoka and Hughes and ideally Butler if he's sitting with the Jazz and really Oni should be if they keep him and he's not playing. Fitts on the 2nd two way I'd assume

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50262461/with-assist-from-jazz-star-rudy-gobert-rose-park-gets-essential-food-pantry

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50261695/jared-butler-makes-another-case-for-rotation-play-in-jazz-win-over-bucks


But as comfortable and effective as he's looked, it doesn't mean Butler is a lock for Quin Snyder's rotation once the regular season begins Wednesday against Oklahoma City.




if the Jazz were smart Clarkson would be on his way out of town but of course they aren't. COTY is still here


He's got some accomplished guys ahead of him in the pecking order. There are two All-Stars (Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley), the reigning Sixth Man of the Year (Jordan Clarkson) and the runner up for Sixth Man of the Year (Joe Ingles).



Clarkson sucks


Snyder also thinks that for Clarkson to have the most impact, he has to play at least 24 minutes. He likely has a number in his head for Conley and Ingles, too. The Jazz are trying to win a championship this season; that means less time to develop young talent like Butler and more time honing in on a rotation that can be the top team in the league.



sad


"I think it's all about trust," Butler said. "If I'm the head coach with the team with the best record in the league, (I'm thinking), 'Why do I need to put in this rookie?' And that's how I'm looking at it, and I'm just trying to make the case of why you should."



like this kid more all the time

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470092/donovan-mitchell-tells-gq-how-he-spent-his-first-1-million/

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470078/jazz-pass-final-preseason-test-against-bucks/


“If you can just defend and run the court, you’ll end up like Royce O’Neal,” Snyder said, “and he’s starting.”



not quite :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470074/rudy-gobert-shows-off-smooth-jump-shot-vs-bucks/


After Gobert sunk the deep jump shot, his Jazz teammates jumped up to celebrate his newfound range.



newfound? We've seen it before

[Xiao Yao You]

Jordan Clarkson – $12.4 million = $30.1 million in savings



that's the one they need to send out. Maybe Whiteside if Udoka comes around. Get a starting 4 if you can!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/14/22708873/utah-jazz-waive-derrick-alston-jr-marques-bolden-macio-teague-whats-next-for-malik-fitts-utah-jazz


The team re-signed Trent Forrest (https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/2/22706432/can-trent-forrest-have-an-expanded-role-for-the-utah-jazz-this-season) to a two-way deal earlier in the summer and then gave their second two-way deal to Justin James as training camp was beginning. But shortly after, the Jazz released James and he went on to join the Cleveland Cavaliers (https://www.nba.com/cavaliers/releases/davis-signing-211013).



didn't see that. Maybe he wanted out to go to the Cavs?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/13/22721356/instant-analysis-utah-jazz-beat-milwaukee-bucks-in-preseason-finale


Jordan Clarkson was working insanely hard on the defensive side of the ball. No one is going to say that Clarkson is a great defender, but what can no longer be said about him is that he doesn’t try. That’s half the battle sometimes and an active defender is better than someone that can be hunted.



maybe having Butler breathing down his neck


There was something wrong with the in-arena sound system through the first three minutes of the game and so the sound that the crowd heard was the squeaking of sneakers on the hardwood and the ball going through the net and the players jawing at one another. That was great. It’s pure basketball without all the music and pumped in noise. But someone fixed the problem. I wish we could have more musicless basketball and just enjoy the game in its most pure form.



nice dream

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/storylines-and-predictions-part-1-rest-defense-pushing-past-playoff-frustration/


At this point I’m sure we’re all tired of this talking point: the Jazz are a great regular season team, but how far can they make it in the playoffs? It feels like every national perspective on the Jazz hinges on this thought. And yes, it’s true that the Jazz blew a 3–1 lead against the Denver Nuggets one season, and then lost four straight to the Kawhi-less Clippers the next season. And then Jazz fans counter with “yeah, but the injuries,” which also has merit. It’s an endless what-if game, that won’t find resolution until the Jazz finally make it over the playoff hump or break up the team.



also true that the same coach that wouldn't make any adjustments in those series is still here


Prediction: This storyline is too broad and volatile to make a specific call on. It seems clear the Jazz will compete for the top seed, with a good shot at at least a top-3 finish in the West. Injury timelines for stars like Klay Thompson, Kawhi Leonard, and Jamal Murray could drastically change the landscape. The optimist in me believes the Jazz can win the West if healthy, which gets to the crux of the issue: everything hinges around player health. With that asterisk in the mind, the Jazz have as good as chance as ever.



it especially hinges around Gobert's health. Probably a lottery team without him


The most interesting minutes battle will be between guards Miye Oni, Trent Forrest, and Jared Butler. Oni was the injury replacement guard for much of last season. His perimeter defense fills one of the team’s biggest needs. His corner three is valuable in the Jazz system. But his exorbitant fouling and inconsistent accuracy made him hard to keep on the floor at times. Forrest is an excellent defender with size and has a great feel for running the pick-and-roll. His shot is his glaring weakness, but he had a breakout Summer League performance. Jared Butler is a much-heralded rookie, with a solid across-the-board skillset. His off-ball shooting and solid defense makes him a great theoretical pairing with Donovan Mitchell. But history shows that it’s hard for a first-year guard to contribute in this league.



Clarkson needs to go


It’s hard to ask for more from Mitchell with the offensive load he carries, but he’s the player who can most improve the team’s perimeter defense. He’s young and has the wingspan and athleticism to make a defensive jump. We’ve seen it spurts, including his recent pre-season performance. We saw him slow down Murray in the final games of the Nuggets series after no other Jazz player could — but Mitchell ran out of gas on the offensive end. It’s a tricky balance.



tired of hearing it. Rudy goes hard at both ends as does Conley and O'Neale


Most people are more curious about Rudy Gobert. We saw him seal and post up against smaller defenders during his silver-medal-winning Olympics run. Can he emulate this in the NBA? If Rudy can consistently pack it on smaller players the Jazz become much more matchup proof. His teammates made it a point to feed him in his first playoff season. On a team that may already have a problem of not enough touches, will we see Gobert get the ball more often?



Get Rudy the ball and help him on D


We’ll also be watching the other Rudy. Gay looks to replace minutes previously taken by Georges Niang and Derrick Favors. Neither of those players have the isolation skills that Gay has. Gay could prove another tool against switching defenses. We saw Bojan Bogdanovic have success in the post when circumstances dictated it. Let’s see if Gay can follow suit.



Niang has a better post game than Bojan sadly


These look to be the biggest storylines for upcoming season. Next time we’ll explore some other storylines, including some that are maybe secondary but still fun to mull over, like: What kind of regular season awards can the team expect? Will Hassan Whiteside be closer to Bobby Portis or Jeff Green? What kind of leap will Mitchell make? Are the Jazz really more versatile? And will Gobert finally earn some respect? Stay tuned.

plenty of versatility last year. That one is on COTY

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/15/projection-model-top-seed-utah-jazz/


Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers (https://thejnotes.com/2021/08/06/3-reasons-utah-jazz-counter-lakers/) do not fare well in FiveThirtyEight’s projection model. In fact, it has them finishing 9th in the conference, with a 47% chance to make the playoffs and a 2% chance to win the NBA championship.



I don't see the Lakers as a threat

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/14/utah-jazz-need-see-jared-butler-moves/


Yes, we might be watching the eventual partner in crime to Donovan Mitchell in the Jazz’s starting backcourt once the Mike Conley era ends via retirement or begins to fizzle.



He might take the best player in Franchise history's spot. Already a better playmaker and I assume defender based on reputation but Mitchell had that too

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/14/utah-jazz-compare-mavericks/

Dallas sucked last year besides one player and they lost their coach and replaced him with Kidd. I wouldn't expect much

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/14/utah-jazz-dethrone-nba-champions/


After all, it does feel like he’ll be in his rotation.



and who is sitting?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://behindthebuckpass.com/2021/10/14/milwaukee-bucks-preseason-loss-utah-jazz/


After battling through some foot soreness over the past few weeks, Rodney Hood (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/h/hoodro01.html) was officially set to make his Bucks debut against the Jazz. Hood played in Utah during the first three and a half years of his career, so this would be a homecoming for the guard, and fans were excited to see him in action for the first time against his former team. Well, things got off to a rocky start for Hood.

Hood hurt!



Considering the injuries that Hood has battled through over the past year and that this foot issue hindered his ability to practice with the Bucks, there was expected to be some rust. It was indeed there last night from start to finish, which is somewhat understandable. On his best days, Hood is a walking double-digit scorer, but last night just was not his night. He looked far from great, but it does not mean fans should give up on him entirely just yet. Despite the struggles, it was great to see the veteran back out on the floor.



always hurt

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/13/utah-jazz-compare-warriors/

Let's see what Klay looks like. If he returns anywhere near where he was they should be one of the best teams again

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: I’m hearing that as of right now, Malik Fitts is in line for the @UtahJazz final two-way roster spot (https://*********.com/social/).


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

ya think?

[Xiao Yao You]

Adam Himmelsbach: Celtics are expecting Ryan Arcidiacono and Juwan Morgan will join the Maine Celtics as affiliate players, (https://*********.com/social/) per source. They’d still be free to sign with another team.
– via Twitter AdamHimmelsbach (https://twitter.com/AdamHimmelsbach)

[Xiao Yao You]

Andrew Greif: Nico Batum smiled when asked what he’s noticed watching preseason games across the league: “The pace, the shooting, bigs shooting — I saw Rudy [Gobert] got a jumper. I was like no way, will he shoot threes now?” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter AndrewGreif (https://twitter.com/AndrewGreif)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Golden State Warriors have waived forward/center Jordan Bell, along with guards Avery Bradley, Mychal Mulder and Gary Payton II, (https://www.nba.com/warriors/news/bell-bradley-mulder-payton-waived-20211015) the team announced today.

– via NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/warriors/news/bell-bradley-mulder-payton-waived-20211015)



Bradley might be a good fit

[Xiao Yao You]

Mitchell himself tested positive. Mitchell was openly annoyed about the way things transpired, and The Athletic reported the relationship was “unsalvageable.” Tensions were high for everyone around the world at the time, but the teammates talked before going to the Bubble. Gobert admitted he made a mistake. The All-Star duo moved on and sources around the Jazz say it hasn’t been an issue since (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship).
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)




(https://*********.com/storyline/mitchell-gobert-dynamic/) Now, Gobert and Mitchell are hoping to lead the Jazz over the top in the playoffs together. Mitchell will do most of the scoring, but he appreciates Gobert’s beyond-the-box-score impact. “People don’t pay attention to that. It’s a lot of information that people don’t really want to hear about,” Mitchell says. “But it definitely doesn’t go lost in this locker room.” (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)






But Gobert is no stranger to adversity, even as he’s emerged as one of the game’s best centers. After being snubbed from the 2019 All-Star Game, he cried out of frustration in the midst of a media scrum. Last year, he was criticized for flippantly touching reporters’ microphones at the cusp of coronavirus pandemic, only to test positive soon after. And now, some question whether he can help lead the Jazz to the title if he can’t keep pace with the modern NBA. “Just because I’m 7 foot, and I do what I do on the court, people tend to think that I’m just a robot,” he says. “But we’re all human beings. We all have emotions. Sometimes you let them out.” (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)

– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)







Fournier, who was already a top French player for his age group, says few people really believed in Gobert, but he competed hard. “One of the reasons why me and him are very close is because I never gave him shit,” Fournier says. But plenty of kids did. Gobert would get laughed at by his peers when he’d tell them that he’d make it to the NBA. “Everybody was looking at me crazy,” Gobert says. (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship) “I wasn’t even the best player on my team back then.”
– via Kevin O'Connor @ The Ringer (https://www.theringer.com/2021/10/15/22727376/rudy-gobert-utah-jazz-nba-championship)






Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert has opened a food pantry at a Salt Lake City middle school where 86% of students live below the poverty line. “It always breaks my heart to see students, kids have to worry about their next meal. I was one of those kids many years ago.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50263212/malik-fitts-hopes-hes-shown-enough-to-earn-spot-with-the-jazz


On Monday, the Jazz will announce their final roster for the 2021-22 season. There's not a lot of intrigue when it comes to the roster. Utah has 13 players on fully guaranteed contracts with Miye Oni's deal becoming fully guaranteed in January.



lots of intrigue with essentially two open roster spaces. Could sign Bradley and Galloway if they wanted

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470176/5-jazz-guard-mike-conley/


With added guard depth, the Jazz may be able to offer Conley more rest throughout the season to both preserve the veteran’s health and to develop the younger talent towards the backend of the rotation.



could have last year. They chose not too.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/15/22728764/answering-the-9-questions-we-had-for-the-jazz-before-training-camp


Mitchell said the recovery time from his injury was prolonged, but he came to training camp fully healed and in great shape, having been able to return to action before he got back to Utah.



maybe listen to team doctors next time instead of your posse?


He played in three of the Jazz’s preseason games (missing one due to a non-COVID-19-related illness) and he was really impressive. Butler’s handles and court vision, strength and defensive instincts make him seem wise beyond the experience of a rookie, so it’s hard to imagine that he’s not a part of the Jazz’s rotation moving forward.



it's hard to imagine he is part of the rotation if they are healthy sadly


Did they Jazz get what they wanted out of their destination training camp? So far all signs point to yes. Ingles said the team talked through what happened in the playoffs the last two years and that even the newcomers to the team added what they’d seen from the outside. Hassan Whiteside said this is the most close-knit team he’s ever been a part of and he’s only been here a few weeks. Those are good things to hear just two weeks after the trip to Las Vegas.



but clarkson and COTY are still here and Mitchell still doesn't play D or pass the ball


That said, we can probably expect for Gay to take over the Georges Niang minutes and to play some small-ball five when the matchup calls for it. We saw the Jazz use Eric Paschall in that way during the preseason a little, so that’s some indication of what to expect, but to really know we’ll have to wait and see.



no reason to think it will actually happen


It’s unfortunate that he was injured through so much of last season because some game reps would really help get him up to NBA speed on understanding where he needs to be on both sides of the ball, but that’s where we are. He needs more time.



it's too bad he missed the gleague. Garbage time isn't that big of a deal


Sometimes they’ll look to Jordan Clarkson to initiate some offense and sometimes when Ingles or Conley are resting the jazz will probably turn to Butler or Trent Forrest, but I wouldn’t expect any major changes.



if Clarkson touches the ball he is shooting :cry:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/can-butler-claw-his-way-to-rotation-role-after-solid-preseason/


Reigning Sixth Man of the Year award winner Jordan Clarkson and his runner-up Joe Ingles both operate primarily as ball-handling guards off the bench. Ingles is 6’8″, but he’s much closer spiritually to being a point guard than a big wing the Jazz would ever want to have wrestle with NBA 4s as a regular part of his job description. Put another way, his role is much closer to Conley’s than it is to Royce O’Neale’s or Bojan Bogdanovic’s. He is a guard, on both ends of the floor, even if he is packaged like a forward.



Bojan doesn't want to wrestle with 4's either and they'd be better off if O'Neale didn't have to


It seems from Butler’s early progress that leapfrogging past Hughes and Forrest on the depth chart is doable — in fact, it likely has happened already. But he still has four solid, impactful NBA guards in front of him.



Oni and Forrest are the guys he's ahead of. Hughes was never in the discussion. The question right now with Gay out is if they go really small with Butler or play bff. Looks like they might go really small, Hopefully he's so good Clarkson is put on the block!


Another option some have brought up: simply slide Ingles to the 4 more often. He’s 6’8″ after all. But again, the problem there is that it further eats into the minutes that O’Neale, Bogey and Gay might play. Plus, if you look at how Snyder has historically used Ingles, there’s very little evidence that he believes Ingles can be a 4 in anything beyond quick change-up type scenarios. In the entire 2020-21 season, Ingles played just 17 total possessions where he was the nominal power forward. For 12 of those 17, the smaller Oni was on the court with him to help line up defensively. Snyder just doesn’t use Ingles as a stretch four.



and Oni was the one crashing the glass and playing more like a 4


Instead, the most likely scenario is that Butler begins the season in sort of an on-deck role, the 10th man in a 9-man rotation, meaning he’ll step in any time a guard is hurt, needs rest, or gets into foul trouble. Oni filled that role last season, but since he’s not a ball handler, the Jazz found themselves a little light on facilitators in those moments where he stepped in for one of the four main creators. The effect of that ball handling dearth was especially palpable in the Clippers series. Conley was out, Mitchell’s movements were limited, Ingles doesn’t necessarily thrive going 1-on-1 against switches, and Clarkson is famously a high-variance possession user. As a result, the Jazz ran into problems scoring at times throughout the series, which coupled with their well-documented defensive troubles (https://saltcityhoops.com/what-we-really-just-saw-as-jazz-collapsed-versus-clippers/) to open the door for L.A. to come back in the series.



He needs to be with the Stars if he's not playing


There is one other way Butler could see his role get bigger as the season goes along, and it’s something our Zarin Ficklin recently hinted at (https://saltcityhoops.com/storylines-and-predictions-part-1-rest-defense-pushing-past-playoff-frustration/): if he’s really that ready, Jazz brass might feel more freedom to consider trades that would involve a current rotation player. Frankly, that doesn’t feel like something a contender should do unless they’re 100% convinced that the trade return represents an upgrade AND 100% sold on Butler’s ability to soak up the consequently available minutes. But it’s one way things could unfold if Butler is simply too good to be denied playing time.



they should have been considering it anyway. They don't have a starting 4 and Clarkson sucks


Roster moves: Rosters have to be trimmed to 14-15 standard contracts (with up to two 2-ways) by Monday, which means we’ll see a lot of waivers over the weekend. If a player the Jazz secretly love as a project gets waived, that could change their plans with the last few roster spots. It’s not entirely likely, but it also didn’t seem likely in 2014, when the Jazz had to cut a player with guaranteed salary in order to submit a waiver claim on a 27-year-old rookie named Joseph Howarth Ingles. That, um, worked out for them. I’m sure that the detail-oriented front office already has a list of players on camp deals who they like as much as or more than players currently at the back of their roster. Just something to keep an eye on. A few teams — Houston, Charlotte, Dallas, San Antonio and Memphis — have more than 15 players with at least partial guarantees for the season, which means at some point they might try to give away a player to a team that owns a trade exception. The Jazz have the ability to absorb a small contract, but again, I think they’ll only do it if it’s a player they’ve secretly coveted all along.



they were tanking when they picked up Ingles and not deep in the luxury tax

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/15/utah-jazz-3-superstars-team-acquire/


OK, so maybe we lied a little in the opening slide. Damian Lillard’s rumored potential availability (https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/damian-lillard-trade-rumors-created-a-deceiving-perception-of-blazers-who-remain-a-good-and-dangerous-team/) may have swayed us towards including him in this list. Having said that, the Utah Jazz would love to acquire the superstar guard under any circumstances.



unless it's for Mitchell he doesn't make much sense


Here’s the rub: current Utah Jazz point guard Mike Conley stands a mere 6’1 himself. The Jazz seemed to make do with their diminutive backcourt last season, posting a 107.5 Defensive Rating that ranked third in the National Basketball Association.



Conley plays D and is happy passing and playing off the ball


Zion Williamson’s career has not exactly gone according to plan, but when he has been able to suit up for the New Orleans Pelicans, he’s looked every bit the part of a future MVP candidate. For that matter, he’s frequently looked like a present MVP candidate.



makes little sense.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/rudy-gobert-vs-donovan-mitchell-better-mvp-candidate


The Utah Jazz (https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/utah-jazz-season-preview-win-total-prediction-and-playoff-odds-01fhgp4893vb) have a simple set-up. Donovan Mitchell (https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/donovan-mitchell-needs-to-be-taken-seriously-for-nba-mvp-01fhtv45kb9) powers the offense and Rudy Gobert takes care of the defense. The Jazz are able to have a great defense every year because of Gobert’s talents -- which have won him three of the last four Defensive Player of the Year Awards.



except the offense also revolves around Gobert


Utah’s system props Mitchell up as the star and the driving force of the team. It’s because of that that Mitchell is seen as the MVP of the team (https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/best-nba-mvp-bets-ahead-of-2021-22-season) and has higher MVP odds (https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/nba-mvp-odds-tracker-up-to-date-odds-for-the-2021-22-season). However, does Gobert have a case?



and yet Gobert was the one with the votes last year


While Gobert (https://fansided.com/betsided/posts/rudy-gobert-predicted-to-achieve-record-tying-feat-01febqembs68) may have an analytical case to being the most important piece to what the Jazz do, (https://www.nba.com/news/1-key-stat-for-all-30-teams-this-season) there is no way a center who averages 14.3 points per game is getting any votes in the MVP race.



it's not close. Mitchell isn't close to Conley either

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: The Memphis Grizzlies are waving guard Kris Dunn, sources tell ESPN. That gets the Grizz roster to 15 for opening night (https://*********.com/social/).

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






Dunn defends
Rockets waive Dante Exum (https://*********.com/rumor/rockets-waive-dante-exum/) Shams Charania: The Houston Rockets have waived guard Dante Exum (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter ShamsCharania (https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania)




time to go back down under :applause:

[Xiao Yao You]

Tony Jones: The Utah Jazz are signing Malik Fitts to a two way deal, League Sources tell The Athletic….Fitts impressed in the preseason and during training camp (https://*********.com/social/).

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




roster final?

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: The Utah Jazz have waived Nino Johnson. The 6-9, 246-pound forward will likely be joining the SLC Stars (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Jared Weiss: Celtics are waiving Theo Pinson, Garrison Matthews and Chris Clemons, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell @TheAthleticNBA. Pinson, Clemons, Luke Kornet, Ryan Arcidiacono and Juwan Morgan will go to Maine while Garrison Matthews becomes a free agent. Jabari Parker & Bruno Fernando remain with the team.
– via Twitter JaredWeissNBA (https://twitter.com/JaredWeissNBA)

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz have converted the contract of forward Malik Fitts to a two-way contract. (https://www.nba.com/jazz/jazz-convert-malik-fitts-two-way-contract) Per team policy, terms of the deal were not released. Fitts (6-8, 230, St. Mary’s) played in four preseason games with the Jazz, seeing action in four games, averaging 3.8 points on 45.5 percent from the field and 83.3 percent from three, along with 2.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 11.8 minutes per contest.
– via NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/jazz/jazz-convert-malik-fitts-two-way-contract)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470270/jazz-sign-malik-fitts-to-two-way-conract/


The Jazz also announced that they’d waived forward Nino Johnson who is expected to land with the Salt Lake City Stars. The team’s roster (https://kslsports.com/470200/jazz-to-announce-final-roster-monday/) now stands at 14 players on guaranteed deals entering the final weekend of the preseason, plus Fitts and guard Trent Forrest on two-way contracts.



13 but why should you know that :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

The national narrative is that three-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert was played off the floor when trying to match up against the Clippers’ small lineup. Others point to the Jazz turnstile defense on the perimeter which asked Gobert to choose between stopping easy baskets at the rim or staying glued to his individual assignment on the perimeter.


Others will point to the team’s rash of injuries late in the season, particularly to their All-Star backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and Mike Conley.



others will point to COTY refusing to adjust


Through four preseason games, rookie Jared Butler has been the breakout performer for the Jazz. The guard led the team in both scoring at 18 points per game and assist and 4.3 during the preseason. But will Quin Snyder rely heavily on a rookie during the team’s most important games?



it's too bad he didn't go to Duke

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/16/utah-jazz-compare-phoenix-suns/

yet the Suns were the better team for some reason? Coaching maybe?

[Xiao Yao You]

Rylan Stiles: Mark Daigneault says Favors is “really professional, high character guy.” Says the veterans can get “energized” by the youthful energy on the team. (https://*********.com/social/) Says he has seen it with Horford, Paul, Dennis, Gallo, etc.
– via Twitter Rylan_Stiles (https://twitter.com/Rylan_Stiles)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470185/3-jazz-center-rudy-gobert/


However, it’ll be Gobert’s performance in the playoffs that will dictate how fans around the league view him, and how far the Jazz go in the playoffs. As a result, Gobert’s 2021-22 season will be one of the team’s top storylines ahead of opening night.



it's up to his teammates and coach. He can only do so much

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/17/ranking-utah-jazz-jersey-history/

I like those ones. The powder blue sucked


For those of us who weren’t alive in the 1970s, green has just never felt like an appropriate primary color for the Utah Jazz (http://www.thejnotes.com). There’s no logical reason why they can’t wear it, precisely. We’d just prefer if they didn’t.



they used to only wear them on St. Patrick's Day because Layden was Irish. Still beats yellow and gradiant


It loses points for being a little too busy: white, blue, green and yellow are a lot of colors to fit into a single jersey. Personally, we prefer the away jersey: the predominance of the dark blue allows the multiple colors to feature as needed accents. When the primary color is white, it looks like about one too many colors are being squeezed into the design.



those aren't bad


Was this the best era in NBA jersey history, or was it the worst? We’re not entirely sure, but it was almost certainly the most unique.



I think you stick with the original idea


Frankly, it’s one of the best jerseys in NBA history. Purple and yellow make for a beautiful color combination. The green is appropriately hidden as a tertiary color, adding a nice accent to the purple and yellow combo that really pops. Meanwhile, that same iconic Utah Jazz logo stands with minimal alteration, marking a quality decision to not fix something that wasn’t broken.



hardly one of the best ever. Purple? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

The NBA G League will increase its base player salaries from $35k to $37k this season, adding $2k per player, (https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2021/10/g-league-salaries-to-receive-slight-increase.html) sources told Hoops Rumors. Players previously made $7,000 per month — or $35k per season — numbers that will see slight increases starting with the 2021/22 season.
– via Hoops Rumors (https://www.hoopsrumors.com/2021/10/g-league-salaries-to-receive-slight-increase.html)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/264442/Five-Players-Earn-Contracts-After-Camp-Invites


This group includes: Isaiah Hartenstein (LA Clippers), Wayne Selden (New York Knicks), Dennis Smith Jr. (Portland Trail Blazers), Matt Thomas (Chicago Bulls), Brad Wanamaker (Indiana Pacers). Armoni Brooks could be included in this grouping as well, but his situation was somewhat unique given his re-signed status and conversion process as a former Two-Way player.



and the Jazz got a lot of flack for Thomas. The wasted roster spot last year was Hughes though he does look better now. He should have been on the two way not Their all gleaguer

[Xiao Yao You]

Shams Charania: The Spurs are waiving veteran forward Al-Farouq Aminu, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

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




He could be a fit

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/18/utah-jazz-3-things-opening-night/


One major advantage that Butler gives the Utah Jazz is his ability to play both on and off the ball. Snyder is most likely to feature him primarily in the latter role in the regular season. As a reserve, he’s likely to share the floor with Jordan Clarkson, a much more effective on-ball player, for the bulk of his minutes. Furthermore, he’ll see ample time with Joe Ingles, a high-level, veteran playmaker.



effective and Clarkson don' really go together


With such tremendous depth, Snyder is unlikely to lean on Butler as a primary playmaker outside of garbage time. Still, that doesn’t mean Butler can’t see 15 to 20 minutes of floor time on a regular basis.



that's why they need a new coach. I'd rather he had the ball than Mitchell or Clarkson


Eric Paschall seems likely to receive playing time against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Gay’s absence. The more interesting question is whether his minutes primarily come at the 4 or 5 spot.



actually looks like Butler might get those minutes


Whatever Snyder chooses, it may be indicative of his philosophical preference on the matter of small-ball, offering a preview of what Utah Jazz fans can expect moving forward.



don't expect anything different

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2021/10/17/nba-power-rankings-nets-sixers-chaos/21/


I still don’t love how this team stacks up against the Los Angeles Lakers, especially if they’re fully healthy, but there’s no question this team has the ability to make a Western Conference Finals run at the very least.



not much of a chance that the Lakers are healthy

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Eric Paschall dislocated his right index finger in practice on 10/15. He was limited to no contact in practice today. Will try to return to normal tomorrow (https://*********.com/social/).

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




Morgan or Brantley would be nice right now

[Xiao Yao You]

Adrian Wojnarowski: Milwaukee Bucks guard Grayson Allen has agreed on a two-year, $20 million rookie extension, his agent Mitch Nathan of @CAA_Basketball tells ESPN. Allen arrived with the defending champions in a trade this summer. He was the 21st pick in the 2018 NBA Draft (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter wojespn (https://twitter.com/wojespn)

[Xiao Yao You]

The South East Melbourne Phoenix have opened the door for part-owner Dante Exum to join the roster, after the Australian Boomers star was waived by the Houston Rockets (https://nbl.com.au/news/in-the-post-tuesday-october-19). “If and when Dante decides that the NBL is the right move for him, we of course will do whatever we can do to make that as easy for him as possible,” Phoenix GM Tommy Greer said via Newscorp.

– via NBL.com.au (https://nbl.com.au/news/in-the-post-tuesday-october-19)




no surprise there

[Xiao Yao You]

https://*********.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/92/2021/04/i_d9_ff_49_malik-fitts.png?w=190 Ben Anderson: Joe Ingles said the whole @Utah Jazz roster celebrated Malik Fitts making the team. “Tall, athletic, can shoot the ball. Three pretty good things that an NBA player can have (https://*********.com/social/). He was like a little kid when he found out… which was exciting, it was a happy moment for our team.”
– via Twitter BensHoops (https://twitter.com/BensHoops)

[Xiao Yao You]

Kane Pitman: As expected, the Bucks list Rodney Hood (foot), Bobby Portis (hamstring), Semi Ojeleye (calf) and Donte DiVincenzo (ankle) out for opening night (https://*********.com/social/) against Brooklyn, while Kyrie Irving (not with team) is out for the Nets. Sandro Mamukelashvili is the back up big for Milwaukee.

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




Hood out. That's a surprise! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

When asked on Tuesday about Giddey, Ingles hilariously stopped the reporter. Is this that stupid question that he got the other day saying I stayed up all night or something? That was because I was on a plane. (https://therookiewire.usatoday.com/2021/10/19/jazz-joe-ingles-josh-giddey-reaction/) … I did watch him. He played for my hometown, which was nice. Just giving him an open line and vice versa. If I watched the game, because of that travel, not because I stayed up to watch him play, I would watch a lot of games and shoot him a text with some things and vice versa.
– via Cody Taylor @ The Rookie Wire (https://therookiewire.usatoday.com/2021/10/19/jazz-joe-ingles-josh-giddey-reaction/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/470400/2-utah-jazz-guard-donovan-mitchell/


Though Donovan Mitchell is the Jazz most decorated player, after the last two postseasons, it’s hard to make a convincing argument he’s anything but the team’s most valuable.



more decorated than DPOTY/All NBA/All D? They are a lottery team without Gobert. With him they win games :facepalm


After leading the league in scoring during the Jazz first-round exit against Denver Nuggets at 36.3 points per game, Mithell was arguably more impressive during the Jazz Western Conference Semifinals run last season.



too bad there are two ends of the court and 9 other players out there


“It’s easy to look at the stats and ask ‘What else can I do?'” Mitchell said. “There’s a lot more I can do, they won. That’s the biggest thing.”



exactly


Despite Mitchell’s superstar level performance, it was clear his ankle was continuing to worsen throughout the postseason, even with his brilliant 39 point, nine rebound, nine assist performances in the team’s series-clinching loss to the Clippers.



maybe listen to the doctors instead of your posse next time?


Mitchell also led the Jazz to the best record in the NBA for the first time in franchise history. With a strong supporting cast around him and the guard only now entering his prime, Mitchell is in a prime spot to prove that not only is he one of the NBA’s best offensive talents, but a player who can push his team into contention for a championship ring.



nice of him to lead them despite missing many games and not playing defense or passing to his open teammates!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2021/10/18/22732752/utah-jazz-opening-night-for-donovan-mitchell-eric-paschall-will-be-one-to-remember-nba-vivint-arena


The expectations, pressures and goals are different. When Mitchell was a rookie he was just hoping to get into the rotation. Obviously that worked out and he quickly became a leading scorer, a max-level player and an All-Star. Even so, opening night of the NBA regular season is special and this season it’s even more special for Mitchell.



debatable if he's a max level player or all-star. Maybe he'll show up before December this year?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/storylines-part-2-awards-mitchells-leap/


Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell should be All-Star locks, especially buoyed by the fact that Kawhi Leonard, Jamal Murray, and Klay Thompson will likely miss large portions of the season due to injury. Having earned honors for two consecutive years now, Utah’s stars are on the “perennial All-Star” track until regression kicks them off. I also suspect they won’t repeat as the last chosen when teams are picked. I wouldn’t count on Conley returning, who barely made it last season, and may rest more this season. He got the All-Star monkey off his back, making the team for the first time in 14 stellar seasons. There will be less of a grassroots push to get him in this year.



A joke that Mitchell was picked ahead of Conley last year


Both Mitchell and Gobert were in the fringes of MVP talk last season. Neither were a true contender, but in the conversation. Gobert appeared on some ballots and finished tenth in voting. Mitchell did not receive MVP votes. With another jump, offense-oriented Mitchell may have the best chance of cracking the top five if Utah is again formidable, but either player actually winning feels out of reach this season.



Gobert should be in the running every year. Few guys as impactful as him


Jordan Clarkson and Joe Ingles should compete for the Sixth Man Award once again. Clarkson should continue to put up scoring numbers, which speak loudest for this award. There’s precedent for repeating, with Lou Williams and Jamal Crawford each winning three times in recent memory. Ingles may face a tougher path if he can’t replicate a historically efficient season, and especially if he rests more. It’s doubtful Rudy Gay will play enough minutes or score enough to compete, but don’t count him out completely.



hopefully Clarkson is on another team by the trade deadline and Bojan takes that role


Quin Snyder is held in high esteem across the league, but last season felt like his best shot to win the Coach of the Year award. Since the Jazz are expected to repeat as a contender for the top seed, it’s hard to imagine what more Snyder can do. His best bet may be out of his hands: if no other coach overly exceeds expectations and the Jazz are the clear winners of the regular season maybe Quin will finally get his due.



hopefully he heads out of town with Clarkson


Prediction: I’m an optimist, so I’m going to root for Whiteside to succeed. He has it in him, and the effort should be there.



has the effort ever been there with him?


Mitchell could play more minutes and increase his usage. I wouldn’t bet on his minutes increasing with the emphasis on player health. I imagine he’ll continue to average between 33 and 34 minutes per game. That’s already on the low side for a star of his caliber. (Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal play almost 36 minutes, for comparison). Increasing his usage seems almost as difficult, as his 33.5% was fifth highest usage mark in the league last season. But Mitchell has shown to be capable as the focal point in a heliocentric offense, particularly in the playoffs, where his usage jumped to 38%. The Rockets iteration of James Harden sported a usage rate as high as 40.5%. It’s not out of the question that Mitchell takes even more of the offensive reins.



will he play D or pass?


On one hand, Rudy will rely on his teammates to overcome the narrative. If Utah can stay healthy and defend the perimeter, then Rudy’s interior defense will shine. On the other hand, Rudy can do more to punish mismatches on the offensive end. When teams switch everything (and you can bet that opponents will try after the Clippers found success), Rudy can dominate the rim when smaller players switch onto him. He just did so in the Olympics, arguably on the biggest stage he’s been on yet. He nearly willed his team to one of the biggest Olympics upsets ever.



got to get him the ball!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/19/utah-jazz-players-nba-anniversary-team/3/


While there is absolute certainty regarding John Stockton and Karl Malone’s cases to be included on this list, there is only mystery surrounding the cases of some other Utah Jazz greats. Adrian Dantley is one of the best pure scorers in NBA history. He averaged at least 30 points per game in a Jazz uniform from 1980-81 to 1983-84. He has a strong case, but the team’s lack of success during that stretch may earn him a reputation as an empty-calorie scorer.



He led the worst franchise in the league and started their long playoff run :facepalm


Pete Maravich is actually likely to make the cut on the strength of name recognition and influence. His highlight reel dimes were a staple of New Orleans Jazz basketball from 1974-75 to 1978-79. Like Dantley, his case may get held back by the fact that the Jazz consistently underperformed during his tenure with the club.



he didn't win


Finally, current Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert may be fortunate enough to hear his name get called when the league unveils its top 75 all-time players. Some fans may bristle at the inclusion of active players, but the Stifle Tower has a case. He joins Dwight Howard, Ben Wallace and Dikembe Mutombo as one of four players in NBA history with more than 2 Defensive Player of the Year awards.



He won't make it but the past almost 7 years have been the best in team history by far outside of Stockton and Malone despite playing alongside the best player in franchise history! :lol

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2021/10/18/utah-jazz-take-chance-jabari-parker/


Meanwhile, there’s still a chance that the 26-year-old Jabari Parker (https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/p/parkeja01.html) can again be a strong bucket-getter in the NBA, despite the 6-foot-8, 245-pound power forward getting the boot (https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/celtics-waive-former-no-2-overall-pick-jabari-parker-ahead-of-season-opener-per-report/) from the Boston Celtics over the weekend.



they need a starting 4 or depth not more offensive players that play no D


Plus, there’s the Duke basketball connection. Before going No. 2 overall at the 2014 NBA Draft and after growing up in a Mormon household in Chicago, Parker shined for one season under Mike Krzyzewski in Durham, N.C., where Jazz head coach Quin Snyder played for the Hall of Famer and then served as his assistant.



forgot he went to Duke. God no!

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Eric Paschall did fully practice today, a good sign for his availability after his finger sprain last week. Trent Forrest did not fully practice after his concussion last week (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Eric Paschall (right finger dislocation) is PROBABLE to play vs. OKC tomorrow. (https://*********.com/social/) Both Rudy Gay (heel surgery) and Trent Forrest (concussion) are OUT.
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: Eric Paschall who is coming off a dislocated right index finger said as an NBA player your fingers are always injured and you get used to it (https://*********.com/social/). Showed off his pinky finger which is noticeably misaligned. Said he just has to keep the range of motion. #TakeNote | @kslsports

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





Eric Walden: Eric Paschall, on a young Donovan Mitchell: “All the stuff y’all see Don do now, he didn’t have none of that. All he could do in AAU was go hard right and try to dunk on people.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




did he play D or pass?

[Xiao Yao You]

Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert, reflecting back on the Clippers series, notes that his lower back was in such bad shape by the end of it that, had there been a Game 7, he probably wouldn’t have played in it (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)




Andy Larsen: Rudy Gobert said the fall he suffered in Game 6 vs. LAC limited his movement substantially. In particular, he said he didn’t think he would play in Game 7 if the Jazz could have held on to the lead (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)






Eric Walden: Rudy Gobert’s media session ends with @Andy Larsen exclaiming: “This is your ninth season?!” To which Rudy shrugs, nods, and replies: “Time is not real.” (https://*********.com/social/)
– via Twitter tribjazz (https://twitter.com/tribjazz)