2023 Pre=season

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50741515...ting-backcourt (https://www.ksl.com/article/50741515/hardy-says-it-will-be-like-the-hunger-games-to-decide-on-jazz-starting-backcourt)



Now, that thinking will fall on a lot of different players. There are five guards who will be in play to start as the lead ball handler for the Jazz at the start of camp: Collin Sexton, Talen Horton-Tucker, Kris Dunn, Jordan Clarkson and Keyonte George.



Not Juzang? As funny as that is I'd certainly rather have him with the ball than The Bum. To think anyone could think he's a 1 or even good is hard to fathom



Sexton is a lighting bolt with the ball with decent shooting numbers, but he hasn't consistently flashed the traditional point-guard-like set-up abilities.



I thought he did last year. Conley taught him a lot



Clarkson made a huge jump in playmaking as a starter last season, and at 31, he's still a one-on-one maestro.



Yeah a real maestro. Dribble for 20 seconds while ignoring the other 4 guys on the floor with you, throwing up a prayer and a brick. :cry:



Dunn is coming off the best six weeks of his NBA career, and is the most traditional point guard on the team. In his 22 games with the Jazz, he averaged 13.2 points, 5.6 assists and 4.5 rebounds, and shot 47% from deep. If that is at all sustainable, he'll be in the mix for a bigger role.



we'll see if he even makes the team. George has to play. You'd think Sexton has to play. They'd probably like to showcase him and Talen for a trade anyway

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/505435/hardy-discusses-john-collins-jazz-loaded-backcourt/


Luckily for the Jazz, Kelly Olynyk’s versatility off the bench should allow him to play next to both Kessler and Collins interchangeably at the power forward or center positions while maximizing Markkanen at small forward.



Olynyk is more of a 3 than any of them at least offensively. None of them are on D which is where their problems were last year


With that resume, it’s probably safe to assume he’ll fill one starting spot for the Jazz in the backcourt, but will mostly likely operate off the ball.



there's a plan. The worst shooter off the ball. Give him the ball and no one else will see it again. Why is he in the league? :confusedshrug:


“But again we’ve got to make sure that it’s within a team construct and that individual motives are good and powerful and we need to lean into hose, but we also have to remember that we have 82 games coming and we’re all wearing the same jersey.”



and yet The Bum is still on the team! :rant

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/top-unanswered-questions-as-training-camp-starts/


First, there’s Collin Sexton. Prior to coming to Utah, Sexton had started 208 of a possible 218 NBA games. then last season with the Jazz, he only started 15 of a possible 48 games, mostly a function of Mike Conley being on the roster. All of his starts came when Conley was either injured or after his trade. So with Sexton the question is whether the Jazz view him as a starter for them going forward, or if they prefer him being instant offense off the bench. That said, we know his preference. In an interview with Tony Jones this summer, he said, “I want to be able to try and take over the point guard role. I want to show them that I can run the show… I think this season is going to be fun.”



sounds like they see him as a trade piece like much of the roster especially after drafting George


The next common choice I’ve seen is Jordan Clarkson, who had the best season of his career last year, posting careers highs in points (20.8), assists (4.4), and rebounds (4.0). Throughout much of his career, including his time with the Jazz, Clarkson has thrived in the sixth man role, evening winning Sixth Man of the Year during the 2020-21 season. Last season, Clarkson started all 61 games he appeared in and thrived in the role as he was given more control of the offense. As the NBA has transitioned away from the John Stockton point guard prototype, Clarkson has been able to easier make the transition from shoot first bench player, to lead ball handling guard under coach Will Hardy.



him off the bench until they trade him seems like the easiest decision. Maybe when he's paired with George and their future doesn't touch the ball they will finally get rid of The Bum


Three more players that have legitimate arguments. Talen Horton-Tucker averaged 18 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds as a starter for the Jazz last season, and is still somehow only 22 — younger than Ochai Agbaji. Kris Dunn revitalized his career with the Jazz late last season and averaged 13.2 points, 5.6 assists and 4.1 rebounds, while also playing suffocating perimeter defense. Then finally, they could throw rookie Keyonte George into the deep end as the opening day starter. If he shows the ability to play at a high level during training camp and preseason, they could decide to just turn over the reigns sooner rather than later.



I'd be shocked if he's starting right away. Also be shocked if he's not the back-up and starting by the trade deadline


Most are in allignment in believe the starting frontcourt will be Walker Kessler, John Collins, and Markkanen. Outside of that starting lineup, we will most likely see Markkanen slide to play the center or power forward position. From there, we will probably see Agbaji handle minutes as a small forward and he’ll be paired with players like Sexton and Clarkson in the backcourt. Agbaji can’t handle all those minutes though, and there is a good chance we are going to see consistent minutes from one of Fontecchio, Samanic, or, depending on health and what we see from them during the pre-season, this is where both Taylor Hendricks or Brice Sensabaugh could find a way to regular rotation minutes early.



why can't Agbaji handle them if Lauri is playing most of them? Hendricks I expect to see in the mix. Doubt Brice plays much until later in the year


We’ve only seen Keyonte play, and he absolutely dominated during the Summer League. After a slow start to the SLC portion, he found his way to averages of 16.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Then in the first two games in Vegas, he put up 29.5 points and 8.5 assists, while shooting 53.8 percent from the field and 44 percent from three before injuring his ankle. We already know from the first question asked that point guard is a major question mark for the Jazz this season. That isn’t because of a lack of talent at the position though. They may not have a clear cut star, but they are very deep at the position with Sexton, Clarkson, THT, Dunn and George. With so much proven talent available to run the show, it wouldn’t be shocking for Hardy to feel more comfortable bringing Keyonte along slowing and perhaps even given him time with the SLC Stars.



looked too good for the Stars


Hendricks and Sensabaugh are harder to project since they both missed the Summer League due to injuries. Hendricks has been fully cleared and arrived in Utah weeks ago to begin working out at the Jazz facility. As excited as fans are for Keyonte based on what he showed in summer league, it’s important to remember that Hendricks was the Top 10 pick in this years draft for a reason. He has a rare combination of size, length, elite athleticism, and the ability to shoot from three. His biggest area of opportunity is his handle, which might limit his opportunity. Between Markkanen, Kessler, Collins, Kelly Olynyk, and even a player like Omer Yurtseven, playing time at the center and power forward spots is going to be hard to come by. With his shooting and foot speed, small forward would be his opportunity at playing time, but unless he can show an improved ability to handle the ball, the Jazz may wait for him to develop further before putting him in that role.



I'd think he's an energy guy off the bench right away


Enter Sensabaugh. Despite being a late first round pick for the Jazz, he may have the clearest path to playing time if he is fully recovered from his knee injury. If not for hurting his knee and needing surgury, he was originally projected to be selected in the teens. At 6’6″ and 235 pounds, he has the prototypical size to be a small forward who could even handle guarding most of the power forwards in todays NBA. He was also viewed as one of the best shooters in the draft, which is a skill that should translate immediately and could greatly benefit the spacing for this team. The biggest question mark for Sensabaugh will be his ability to play defense on the wing. He can handle the strength of the NBA, but can he consistently stay in front of some of the faster guards and wings in the league, especially as he returns from a knee injury.



sounds like the Jazz want to work on his body probably so he can guard the wing

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/posts/3-outside-box-teams-who-should-go-after-jrue-holiday


No. 3 outside-the-box Jrue Holiday trade suitor: Minnesota Timberwolves

I like it though Conley and Gobert have great chemistry. Conley could make a lot of sense as a mentor with Portland too at least to start the year

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/09/29/damian-lillard-trade-looks-awful-next-utah-jazzs-trades-rudy-gobert-donovan-mitchell/


Sure, Mitchell and Gobert were younger, but Lillard for the most part is better. And all three trades carried with it an inherent window. With Lillard, it was aging out, but with Gobert and Mitchell, it was contracts (and age to a lesser extent for Gobert).



he's better than Mitchell. Not sure he's had the impact Gobert has

[Xiao Yao You]

Alex Kennedy: The Salt Lake City Stars (the Utah Jazz’s G League affiliate) recently worked out free agents Isaiah Lewis, Mike Bibby Jr., Vance Jackson and Christian Bishop among others, per a league source (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter AlexKennedyNBA (https://twitter.com/AlexKennedyNBA)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50742000/jazz-coach-sees-world-where-rookies-play-themselves-into-minutes


George was a revelation during summer league, but how will he look against NBA players? Plus, he and Sensabaugh are part of a crowded backcourt that features Collin Sexton, Jordan Clarkson, Talen Horton-Tucker, Kris Dunn and Agbaji.



is Sensabaugh part of the backcourt at 235? Sounds like maybe they want him to be?


The second-year coach is a believer that time has to be earned. He doesn't think it's good for a player's development to just give away minutes just because a player was a lottery pick or is considered the "future." So if the rookies play rotation minutes early, it's a sign the team thinks they can contribute to winning.



the way it should be. But how does The Bum earn any minutes with his awful play?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/olynyks-importance-asset-value-present-choices/


He arrived to a somewhat rocky reception, as some fans were underwhelmed with the trade that brought him to the mountains. In addition to the desire to play with some order, Utah also knew the roster was unbalanced, with a ton of guards and perimeter players, but not a lot of proven talent in the middle. The offers they were fielding for Bojan Bogdanovic weren’t yielding unencumbered firsts (https://saltcityhoops.com/jazz-roster-remodel-continues-with-bogey-olynyk-swap/) anyway, so they made a deal that would reduce salary commitments and address a positional need. But fan excitement over the Bogey-Olynyk swap was tepid at best.



brings a lot more to the table than the highly overrated Bojan. The guy can score. Did little else


Then there’s the other reality: at some point, it might just be time for the Jazz to get on with their future. Collins is 26 and has at least two more years on his deal, and Kessler is just one year into a 6- to 7-year period of team control. Both those guys are way more likely to be part of Utah’s next contending roster than 32-year-old Olynyk.



plus the rooks, Samanic and Yuretsan

[Xiao Yao You]

Dallas Mavericks guard Dante Exum stated that if his career leads him back to Europe one day, then his former team Partizan Belgrade will likely be the only club that he’ll consider signing with. Let me say right now, if I ever return to Europe, Partizan is the first option, and probably the only one,” Exum said to Mozzart Sport (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/euroleague/1559954/dante-exum-if-i-return-to-europe-partizan-is-probably-the-only-option/).

– via EuroHoops.net (https://www.eurohoops.net/en/euroleague/1559954/dante-exum-if-i-return-to-europe-partizan-is-probably-the-only-option/)



are you good enough to be picky? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

Here are the players listed on the Jazz training camp roster:


Ochai Agbaji – Guard – Kansas
Jordan Clarkson – Guard – Missouri
John Collins – Forward/Center – Wake Forest
Kris Dunn – Guard – Providence
Simone Fontecchio – Forward – Italy
Keyonte George – Guard – Baylor*
Joey Hauser – Forward – Michigan State*
Taylor Hendricks – Forward – UCF*
Talen Horton-Tucker – Guard – Iowa State

Johnny Juzang – Guard – UCLA (Two-way player)
Walker Kessler – Center – Auburn

Taevion Kinsey – Guard/Forward – Marshall*
Romeo Langford – Guard/Forward – Indiana
Lauri Markkanen – Forward – Arizona
Kelly Olynyk – Forward/Center – Gonzaga
Nick Ongenda – Center – DePaul*
Micah Potter – Forward – Wisconsin (Two-way player)
Luka Šamanić – Forward – Croatia
Brice Sensabaugh – Guard/Forward – Ohio State*
Collin Sexton – Guard – Alabama
Ömer Yurtseven – Center – Georgetown



a few guys from summer league filling out the roster. Probably all on Exhibit 10's and headed for the Stars but obviously their is flexibility to add guys with their partial and non guaranteed deals. Looks like 1 of those guys will have to go anyway. Yurtseven, Samanic or Dunn

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: At Jazz media day, Keyonte George says he’s set a goal for himself this season: Rookie of the Year (https://*********.com/social/).

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



He looked like one of the best in summer league but unless he's starting it will be tough. Some thought Kessler was the best last year though he came off the bench most of the year

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/505638/jazz-2023-24-media-day-odds-and-ends/


“Weight-wise, I’m probably like 255 now, I don’t know what it was last year, but I feel a lot stronger,” Kessler noted. “Jumping, I won’t say a lot higher but I can feel I’m more explosive for sure. Part of this is growing up and maturing.”



definitely needed to get stronger as long as it doesn't slow him down. Need to see him guard in space still


“He became my main coach playing in Boston,” Langford said of Hardy. “We always had one coach we went to, so at first it was Joe Mazzulla, but then with the coaching staff switch it became Will, so we became close on and off the floor.



interesting

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/505609/all-three-utah-jazz-rookies-healthy-after-difficult-summer/


The rookie has drawn praise for his activity and shot-making during open gym workouts with the Jazz, mirroring his contributions as a breakout one-and-done star in college.



I'm thinking at least some of what Vanderbilt brought with energy at least early


“I’ve been able to talk to Collin [Sexton], Talen [Horton-Tucker], and even KD — Kris Dunn,” George said. “Collin has been telling me to stay in attack mode, he stays in attack mode the whole time.”



as long as you don't listen to The Bum!


Finally, George noted he’s already begun film work with Dunn, even before their first preseason game.

“He’s been defending at a high level for a very long time, and that’s what he’s great at.” George recognized. “Even looking at the film from open gym, seeing how he can guard me see and how he is at times pushing me off my line.”



He can certainly teach you a lot about defending and running the offense! :cheers:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/2/23895477/utah-jazz-players-new-nba-season-world-cup-experiences


Jordan Clarkson’s last two years with the Philippine national team have helped him grow as a leader and playmaker (https://www.deseret.com/2023/5/9/23703225/utah-jazz-jordan-clarkson-showed-a-new-side-of-his-game-high-grade), and he has credited his recent success as a passer in part to the role he plays for the Philippines.



let's just call him Stock! :roll:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/quotable-four-quotes-from-media-day/


Knowing it’ll be no small task, George has already locked in by looking at the film and getting his perspective focused. “I’m looking at what the team did last year, looking at what Mike did, to see how he was able to get guys shots. At some point, I’ll be able to gain that trust and be able to lead this team in a way and continue to make winning plays,” George said.



the description of the guy coming into the draft sounded Bum like so to hear he's learning from Conley and Dunn instead is very exciting! :banana:


“We’re going to try to put something on the floor every night that represents this community and his fan base. Like I promised you last year, I promise this team will play hard and will compete every single night. As a staff, we aim to figure out how this group best fits together. There will be conversations about building on last year, or building toward the future.”



I loved that they played hard and unselfishly(outside the Bum anyway)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/02/should-the-utah-jazz-pursue-jerami-grant-when-he-becomes-available/


Clearly, the Jazz can’t make a move for Grant if they need help rebounding. Also, Grant isn’t good on defense. There are worst bigs defensively, absolutely, but for the price many want Grant to go for, he’s not worth it.



Playing bigger than everyone and not rebounding is certainly a problem. They need more wings not more bigs


You could justify a first-rounder, and contracts to match (Grant will cost $27 million), but anything more than that is highway robbery for a forward who is just a few notches above Christian Wood in what he brings to the table.



he's a lot better than Woods. Plays D and can stretch the floor. They need D and shooting

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/02/if-things-go-sideways-for-the-utah-jazz-why-not-go-get-jimmer-fredette/

one thing they have plenty of is 6th man gunner types. Pass

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/02/it-sounds-like-will-hardy-knows-the-utah-jazz-will-lose-something-with-kelly-olynyk-on-the-bench/


With the way the team is talking, it really does seem like someone like Olynyk may be around longer than expected. It could also be a situation where they may be talking about how John Collins can earn a new contract with the team. If he defers more and expands his skillset, Collins could be getting a new deal alongside Lauri Markkanen sooner than we think.



we'll see. Kessler, Hendricks and Lauri. Shouldn't be many minutes after that

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/sextons-on-ball-scoring-knack-points-to-possibilities/


In fact, just for kicks, I cross-referenced the list of guys to convert 40% or more of their pull-up threes last season (min. 40 attempts) with the list of players to manage 63% true shooting or better as drivers (min. 50 drives). Only three players joined Sexton on both lists: Steph Curry, Kawhi Leonard and rising star Austin Reaves.



Where's Mitchell?


Of guards who played real minutes last year, only megastar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drew shooting fouls as often as Sexton (on 17.2% of his attempts). He shot a free throw about 42.5% as often as he attempted a field goal, which is a wild figure for a guard outside the superstar class.



can his body hold up to that is the biggest question with him


Sixteen active NBA players averaged at least 20 points over their first three seasons combined, and 15 of them have been All-Stars. The 16th guy is Sexton. In fact, of the 47 players who entered the NBA in the 3-point era and averaged 20 over their first three seasons, the only guys to never make an All-Star team are Sexton (so far), Jim Jackson and the Jazz’s own Darrell Griffith.



and people want to start The Bum over him! :roll:


His Utah production might look more modest than his scoring average in Cleveland, but it’s mostly a function of the way the Jazz carefully watched his minutes. They badly wanted him to get through his first full year after surgery with no incidents, so they kept him right around 24 mpg all season. On a per-36 basis, his Utah scoring output (21.5) if roughly equal to when he was a Cav (21.8).



Had more to do with Conley no? He played more after Conley was gone until he got hurt anyway


We’ve heard that the main thing the Jazz are working on is his passing, especially if he ever purports to be a candidate for lead ball handling duties. He passes the ball on just 29% of his drives, which is a much lower figure than any other Jazz guards. And hey, if you’re going to get 1.28 points per shooting possession as a driver, maybe it’s OK that he passes out of those situations less often. But he does get a little tunnel-visioned at times. Beyond assist numbers, it’s more about making the correct play every time.



and the correct play is obviously him much of the time


Look, nobody can say for sure if Sexton is ever going to be a bona fide star, or a starting point guard on a contending team, or whatever. The point is: there’s a pretty fun player there right damn now. If we can all stop trying to look smart for a minute and enjoy the unique stuff he’s already doing, we might well derive some enjoyment from the Collins Sexton experience today — and let the future bring what it may.



at worse he's a great 6th man unlike The Bum

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/505693/jazz-open-traning-camp-in-hawaii/


The Jazz are carrying 21 players total players on the roster while in Hawaii, a number that has to be trimmed down to 15 traditional contracts, plus three two-way players by opening night.



I thought you could only have 20? Did this change? It probably should have with the increased rosters

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/05/is-the-utah-jazzs-kelly-olynyk-still-considered-a-dirty-player/

he's a guy you like if he's on your team and don't if he's not with all the flopping and whining

[Xiao Yao You]

https://sircharlesincharge.com/2023/10/05/miami-heat-cost-saving-trades-contender/4/

makes some sense. Get the vet in Lowry to replace Dunn and open up minutes for George. Herro replaces Agbaji. Olynyk gone opens up minutes for Hendricks and others. And of course more picks to keep Danny happy

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/7/23905983/danny-ainge-has-a-tell-when-it-comes-to-players-he-likes


That’s why his interest and investment of time with George is particularly interesting to me. Ainge sees something in George and wants to help him make the most of his rookie season.



just took him in the lottery of course they are interested in him :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/6/23905981/utah-jazz-observations-takeaways-from-hawaii-training-camp-john-collings-keyonte-george-ochai-agbaji


That would all be pretty great, right? Well. I’m telling you that it’s all true. That’s the word coming out of Jazz training camp this week. Keyonte George is the real deal.



did you miss summer league? :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/6/23906289/dante-exum-is-back-in-nba-dallas-mavericks-utah-jazz


“Exum’s athleticism helps him excel as a finisher and a defender. His defense and ability to handle the ball will be vital for the Mavericks, as they need someone to help Josh Green carry the burden of having to defend guards on a nightly basis,” writes SBNation’s Gracie Villiard (https://www.mavsmoneyball.com/2023/10/6/23883113/dante-exum-is-an-underrated-signing-for-the-mavericks). After trading Reggie Bullock to the San Antonio Spurs in the three-team deal that landed Grant Williams in Dallas, the Mavericks need players who can comfortably defend guards.



so apparently he can make a lay up now?


“I think for me it’s been a long journey,” Exum told Mavs.com (https://www.mavs.com/exumasolidefender/). “Obviously, being in the NBA before and having kind of dealt with a lot of injuries, I felt like I’ve had the skills to be here. But proving my being healthy has kind of been the problem.



Your problem was that you looked like an athlete trying to be an NBA player. Not an NBA player that was athletic. Without The Wizard where would you be? A lot less wealthy for sure!

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/keyonte-georges-blueprint-for-winning-rookie-of-the-year/


There is a good reason for the Jazz not having a winner in their history. The winners are almost always one of the top overall selections and players drafted in a situation where the entire offense will be turned over to them. The Jazz have historically just been too good for that. They are one of nine teams since the lottery began to have never held the number 1 overall pick. The highest selection they made was Deron Williams with the number 3 pick.



instead of ROTY Paul :rant


Mitchell exploding onto the scene like he did is a rarity, and multiple things had to happen to open the door for him. Two of the biggest were the lack of competition to the role he was taking over. Gordon Hayward left in free agency, and Rodney Hood struggled as a first option. The Jazz desperately needed someone who could play with the ball in their hands and had a willingness to take shots. As a rookie, Mitchell averaged 33.4 minutes, and a whopping 17.2 shot attempts per game. Since the 2000 season, Mitchell was one of only 4 players who averaged over 30 minutes and 17 shot attempts per game as a rookie. The others were LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Kevin Durant.



The fact that COTY ever thought Hood was anything other than a 6th man is the amazing thing :wtf:


Clearly, George has a knack for putting the ball in the basket, but just in terms of opportunity alone, it will be hard for him to get to 15 points per game. If we look at this Jazz roster as currently constructed, it is hard for me to imagine Key getting more shot attempts per game than Markkanen, Collins, Jordan Clarkson, or Collin Sexton. That leaves him fifth in the pecking order for shot attempts in the best case. Last season, Horton-Tucker attempted the fifth most shots per game for the Jazz, at 9.4, on the way to 10.7 points. Sextion only attempted 9.8 shots per game and averaged 14.3 points.



The Bum and Sexton could be gone by the trade deadline

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/06/do-the-utah-jazz-need-a-genuine-second-all-star-next-to-lauri-markkanen-in-order-to-compete/

eventually. They compete with 1 now though :facepalm

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/06/the-rumored-utah-jazz-starting-lineup-may-be-the-teams-worst-case-scenario/

If you were paying attention you'd know that they've changed the combos everyday and might through the first 20 games or so

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/06/are-the-utah-jazz-in-a-better-spot-to-win-the-nba-title-now-than-it-was-with-donovan-mitchell-and-rudy-gobert/

if they'd made the Cavs trade and not the Wolves one they would have been one one the best teams in the league. Gobert with an actual 4 instead of a 6'4 imposter? Only one inefficient gunner instead of two? A coach willing to make changes?

[Xiao Yao You]

http://www.insidehoops.com/forum/showthread.php?514242-2023-Pre-season&p=14836429#post14836429

You may forget Gobert getting passed over twice despite being one of the best players in the league. Kessler has a ways to go

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.ksl.com/article/50747473/jazz-rookies-cant-ask-for-better-game-to-get-first-crack-at-nba-in-win-over-clippers

Dunn was certainly their best player. I'd guess next game he'll be in the rotation? George wasn't very good nor was most of the team. Looks like Hendricks isn't in the rotation. Behind Simone at the moment. Nice pull up 3 though. Yurtseven appears to be ahead of Samanic as well. They both looked good in garbage time.

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/depth-dunks-more-four-notes-from-the-jazzs-weekend-in-paradise/


The 2023-24 NBA season officially began for the Utah Jazz as they tipped off in Hawaii for an exhibition game against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Jazz rallied late to get the win, 101-96. Fourteen players played, including all of the regular roster players except for one. To me, this showcased the depth the Jazz will have this season.



too bad no one but the 4rd/5th string looked good though :facepalm


We know the offense will feature Lauri Markannen and Jordan Clarkson the most, while the defense will be anchored around Walker Kessler. John Collins and Collin Sexton will get plenty of minutes, as will Ochai Agbaji, regardless of starters or off the bench. After those first six, the team has veterans Kelly Olynk and Kris Dunn in waiting, along with young vet Talen Horton-Tucker. That puts the team at nine rotational players, before we even consider the rookies. Keyonte George saw rotation minutes on Sunday, and has said he has his sights on Rookie of the Year (https://saltcityhoops.com/keyonte-georges-blueprint-for-winning-rookie-of-the-year/).



Dunn wasn't in the rotation. Talen, Simone and Agbaji weren't last year until they traded a bunch of guys. George didn't look good


The point of the preseason is to give everyone a run and figure out lineup configurations. The addition of Collins might’ve created questions about the frontcourt plans. The quick summer league success from George, and even the international success from Fontecchio, might’ve muddled up minute decisions, too. To make the job just a touch more difficult for Jazz coach Will Hardy and staff, the Jazz have a little more quality depth than might’ve been anticipated.



Simone played good last summer too. Still found him on the bench

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/09/talen-horton-tucker-starting-doesnt-makes-sense-utah-jazz/


The Utah Jazz started Talen Horton-Tucker against the LA Clippers, but why?

because if you'd been paying attention they are trying different combos maybe through the first 20 games of the season


Horton-Tucker shot just 42% from the floor, 29% from three, and 75% from the free-throw line, while also finishing 15th on the team in BPM with a -1.6. Before being discontinued, his RAPTOR wasn’t great either, finishing the 2022-2023 season with just a -1.1 grade on offense and a -0.1 grade on defense.



and only 22


And if the argument was; “Oh, he’s playing because of his size/passing/defense”, one would argue; is he? Yes, he’s 6’4, but Kris Dunn is 6’3, so height has nothing to do with it.



Dunn doesn't have a 7'2 wingspan


If you want a more offensive-minded player, Clarkson and Sexton make so much more sense. If you want a more defensive-minded option, Dunn makes more sense. And while Horton-Tucker is a better defensive option over Sexton and Clarkson by a mile, his defense isn’t so good that putting him in the starting lineup makes you better without Sexton and or Clarkson.



anyone better than The Bum

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/09/kris-dunn-stirs-debate-and-three-more-observations-from-the-utah-jazzs-preseason-debut/


But don’t let his preseason debut fool you; Dunn is a liability when it comes to scoring. He had a solid season with the Jazz in 2022-2023, shooting 54% from the floor and 47% from three. Now, you may see that and think “he’s clearly improving” but keep in mind he put those numbers up at 28, not 22. Players don’t magically take a career-defining leap that late into their careers most of the time.



he's figured out what works. He can get to the rim and finish and he's hit open shots. No reason he can't keep it up


If you look at his stats, he’s not a polished passer, so asking him to be a point guard isn’t the greatest of ideas. He’s also not very sure of his three-point shot, as he only took 2.5 per game last year; good enough for 11th best on the team.




he's sure of his shot. Why take 3's when you can get to the rim at will?


He’s also not great on defense. He tries, but he just gets caught up in screens far too easily. So he’s not a bad player by any means but he has his own limitations. He’ll rebound from his 1-7 night, but fans should really be concerned about him being paired with Jordan Clarkson at any point in time. Those two are nearly carbon copies of one another, with the same strengths and weaknesse

The Bum can't shoot. They aren't alike :facepalm


This is great because while Olynyk can get you 10+ points per game by being a versatile shooter, it’s his also host of skills that make Olynyk off the bench impressive. He’s not only a solid rebounder, but he’s a fantastic passer for a man of his size.



not much of a rebounder

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/505938/sluggish-jazz-fall-to-clippers-in-second-preseason-meeting/



Kris Dunn had a strong performance in game one for the Jazz, but recorded just four points and one assist in his 19 minutes in game two.



the team still looked a lot better with him on the floor

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/10/starting-taylor-hendricks-over-john-collins-makes-no-sense-for-the-utah-jazz/

Hendricks will be starting with the Stars

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/09/talen-horton-tucker-starting-doesnt-makes-sense-utah-jazz/

good luck with that. Gobert was passed over twice once by his own inferior teammate

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz have signed guard Michael Devoe and forward Keshawn Justice. (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-sign-michael-devoe-and-keshawn-justice) In a related move, the team has waived guard/forward Taevion Kinsey and center Nick Ongenda.

– via Jeremy Rincon @ NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-sign-michael-devoe-and-keshawn-justice)




Stars roster coming into view

Langford/Devoe/Kinsey
Sensabaugh/Juzang/Justice
Hendricks/Hauser
Potter/Ongenda

[Xiao Yao You]

Utah Jazz, Will Hardy still have a difficult choice to make at point guard (msn.com) (https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/other/utah-jazz-will-hardy-still-have-a-difficult-choice-to-make-at-point-guard/ar-AA1i2VqF?ocid=winp1taskbar&cvid=b7c3683498764d579c3fa9e77dacd551&ei=20)


The obvious is that nobody has stepped forward and taken the reins.


Dunn


Kris Dunn (https://theathletic.com/nba/player/kris-dunn-TNoY7HWxAdU7BRkI/) played well in both games, but if you start him, you probably have to either take Sexton out of the rotation, or, at the very least, limit his time significantly.


6th man until you trade him


And then there’s rookie Keyonte George (https://theathletic.com/nba/player/keyonte-george-UJIWuy7eENyYipwc/). In terms of natural talent, it’s clear he’s suited to be a point guard in the NBA. But you still probably don’t want to start him on day one and throw him to the wolves, Timber or otherwise. But it’s clear the Jazz want George in the rotation, and the flashes that he’s shown have been noticeable. He’s arguably the second best passer on the roster, behind veteran forward Kelly Olynyk (https://theathletic.com/nba/player/kelly-olynyk-Qlzp0cFJAKpYydgC/). He’s terrific off the dribble and has the size and athleticism to break into the paint and finish in the lane, and confidence oozes from his pores when he’s on the floor.


Dunn


Jordan Clarkson, who was a starter last year, has come off the bench for Utah’s first two preseason games. But he’s been a sixth man for the majority of his career and is considered one of Utah’s adults in the locker room. He’s someone who can mentally handle playing off the bench or as a starter, with his game not being affected in either way. It’s probably not going to be as easy for Hardy with the rest of the cast. Dunn is playing on a non-guaranteed contract and fighting for his NBA life. Sexton is as competitive as they come and wants to show that he’s an NBA starting level guard as he rounds into the prime of his career. Horton-Tucker is on an expiring contract.

The Bum plays the same way regardless. Pound the ball, ignore everyone else, throw up a prayer...brick


The Jazz will return to Utah and get a couple of full length practices this week before facing the Portland Trail Blazers (https://theathletic.com/nba/team/blazers/) on Saturday. Then, they face the New Zealand Breakers on Monday before heading to Sacramento to face the Kings (https://theathletic.com/nba/team/sac-kings/) in their preseason finale. Hardy would like to figure out his rotation in full by early next week at the latest. That gives him and the Jazz a week to prepare for the Kings on opening night.


said it might be 20 games before he figures it out

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/11/23913625/jazz-fans-not-to-worry-about-taylor-hendricks-rookie-nba-preseason


We also know that Jazz coach Will Hardy is not one to rush the development process. Because we saw so much late-season success with Walker Kessler and Ochai Agbaji last year, it’s easy to forget that Kessler started out the year on the bench and Agbaji, who was also a lottery pick, started out in the G League. Hardy has stressed in the past that every player’s development path is different and so far, his philosophy has paid off.



Kessler was a factor from day 1. Agbaji didn't look good even in the Gleague


Hendricks, on the other hand, is not competing for starting minutes, and there are players ahead of him on the depth chart that will make it more difficult to stand out right away. Depending on the matchup and on where players are being used, Hendricks is behind John Collins, Kelly Olynyk, and even Lauri Markkanen in certain instances. So, there’s a difference purely based on the roster.



You forgot Simone and Yurtseven who are ahead of him as well.


Also, at the position that Hendricks will play, there is a lot more strength required. The players he’ll be going up against are bigger and stronger than many of the smaller guards in the league and for a 19-year-old, he’s going to have to get used to a level of physicality that often isn’t required from guards.



not much of a factor anymore in the can't touch unless you an offensive player league

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/agbajis-expanding-game/


When Ochai Agbaji arrived at Kansas University in 2018, nobody had any clue he would become a Jayhawk legend. He was ranked as the 337th best prospect in the nation at the time he committed to KU, and hadn’t even been a consistent starter on his AAU team. The Jayhawks’ plan was to grab the local product and let him develop in practice during a redshirt year.



followed that path early last year as well


Interestingly enough, his first pro season followed a similar pattern. While the Jazz didn’t literally redshirt him early in the 2022-23 season, he saw far more G League action by New Year’s (288 minutes) than he had logged for the big boy club (127). But just like four years earlier, Agbaji was quietly doing his work in the background, and a door was about to crack open.



and he didn't look great with the Stars either


The analysis of last summer’s Jazz-Cavs trade was so focused on draft assets that even eventual All-Star Lauri Markkanen was a bit of an afterthought in the coverage. Collin Sexton was the first incoming player listed in most national and local stories, but the real focus was on the three unprotected draft picks coming Utah’s way in the deal. So much so that Agbaji was a bit lost in the shuffle. He was also arriving to a team flush with guards, so despite his impressive senior season, he was rather inconspicuous heading into the season.



didn't see him in summer league but as a lottery pick everyone should have been excited about him

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/11/former-utah-jazz-player-dante-exum-is-looking-like-the-player-they-hoped-he-would-be/


Former Utah Jazz player, Dante Exum, is looking like the player they hoped he would be

they hoped he'd be a superstar :facepalm


And it’s possible Exum earns that spot too, as the Mavericks have experimented with starting lineups that included Olivier-MaxenceProsper, Josh Green, and Derrick Jones Jr. at the small forward position. Putting Exum in that spot, or more specifically Doncic, would allow the Mavericks to have a guard/forward in Exum who could play defense against anyone while being able to contribute on offense.



can he contribute anything on offense though?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/11/its-only-preseason-but-the-utah-jazz-could-use-a-stable-point-guard/


Collin Sexton doesn’t look much better, however. Clarkson hustled for rebounds (5), and Horton-Tucker was a solid defender on guys all night, but Sexton didn’t provide anything for the team to rely on with his shot not falling. Going 1-5 isn’t a bad thing, especially in preseason, as games like that happen to just about everyone. But to not provide any bit of support beyond scoring is not a good sign of things to come.



we know what Sexton can do already.

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Anderson: The @utahjazz have waived two-way forward Joey Hauser (https://*********.com/social/). #takeNote | @kslsports

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




I guess the exhibit 10 guys could get the spot or someone else? Can Hauser still play for the Stars?

[Xiao Yao You]

Jazz Insider Floats Idea of Fixing Point Guard Woes via Trade (msn.com) (https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nba/jazz-insider-floats-idea-of-fixing-point-guard-woes-via-trade/ar-AA1i469H?ocid=winp1taskbar&cvid=01c1f0cb28664f949441b75cbc49c599&ei=22)


“The Jazz had hoped that he would be the starting point guard, and he has disappointed so hugely,” Larsen said, referring to Collin Sexton’s start to the preseason. “It’s two preseason games, and you don’t want to read too much into it, but these are the same flaws that Collin has had throughout his career where he’s not a natural point guard.”






I'd say most of the team hasn't looked good outside Dunn and whomever has been on the floor with him against 3rd and 4th strings


Brogdon still has two years left on his contract, in which he’s owed 45 million over that time. That’s a lot of money for a player who will be 31 this season and has had injury problems for most of his career.


Is he 45 million better than Dunn? I'm thinking not personally


The other long term solution would be to hand the job over to rookie Keyonte George and deal with the growing pains of a nineteen-year-old leading the team.


You could say the same for Sexton or Talen. They are young and have at least started at the 1. I'd say George off the bench until he's ready. Trade deadline probably

[Xiao Yao You]

wonder if Hauser got a deal to play overseas and wanted out or the Jazz thought other exhibit 10 guys looked better?

[Xiao Yao You]

Shams Charania: The Utah Jazz are planning to sign former Rockets first-round pick Josh Christopher to a two-way NBA deal, (https://*********.com/social/) sources tell me and @Tjonesonthenba. The guard averaged 7 points and 15.4 minutes across two seasons in Houston. His brother, Patrick, played 4 games for Jazz in 2014-15.

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




nice that's someone that could actually help the Jazz at some point

[Xiao Yao You]

won't be 22 until December. Would be a senior in college. Looks like a decent playmaker. Can't shoot

[Xiao Yao You]

Stars roster coming into view

Christopher/Langford/Devoe/Kinsey
Sensabaugh/Juzang/Justice
Hendricks/Hauser(not sure if he can still play with the Stars or nor?)
Potter/Ongenda

need a couple pg's it would appear

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/505970/jazz-return-from-extended-preseason-trip/


Finding full rotation minutes for even one rookie on this Jazz roster might be difficult this season, much less three.



probably all be playing after the deadline

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/13/the-rookies-need-to-earn-their-spots-with-the-utah-jazz/


There’s a small contingent of Utah Jazz fans right now that seem to think pushing Keyonte George and Taylor Hendricks into rotational spots with high minutes is the way to g (https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/11/23913625/jazz-fans-not-to-worry-about-taylor-hendricks-rookie-nba-preseason)o. And among them, there are even some who think the two rookies should be shoehorned into the starting lineups. Both ideas are bad form for the Jazz and should be avoided at all costs.



high minutes with the Stars until they are ready is the way to go. Dominate the Gleague and force the Jazz's hand

[Xiao Yao You]

– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/)

Stars should try to get him. I believe he still lives here.





How long do you want to continue playing professionally? Derrick Favors: I’m 32. I want to keep paying until my body tells me I can’t play anymore. I’m playing until the wheels fall off. I still feel like I’ve got a lot more years left in me, and I still feel like I can compete at a high level. I still feel like I can help a team. (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/) I think I’ve shown in the past that I can adjust to any role that I’m in. I can come into the game on the offensive and defensive end. I can still do a lot of things out there on the court with the right team and the right situation to help a team either win a championship or be a mentor to a younger team.

– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/)







The Utah Jazz recently traded away Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. During their era, why could those talented teams not take the next step? Derrick Favors: I think we just got hurt at the wrong time. That last year, when we went to the playoffs, and we lost to the Clippers, they were a good team, but I think we could’ve beat them, but Mike Conley ended up getting hurt. Donovan Mitchell also got hurt. We were down our two leading guys. You’ve also got to remember that we were going up against Houston and Golden State when they had the best record in the league and the best team. Houston had James Harden at the time, winning 65 games. I think some of it was matchups, going against two historically great offensive teams. We couldn’t match up with them, but who could in the league? If it wasn’t for Golden State, Houston probably would’ve won championships. If it wasn’t for those two teams, we could’ve won a championship (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/).

– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/)






How did you find out about the Deron Williams trade, and what was your reaction? Derrick Favors: I was 19 at the time. The funny thing about that is as soon as I got drafted around training camp and preseason time, that was the Carmelo Anthony trade talks where New Jersey wanted Carmelo. I had to deal with those trade rumors up to February. Once Melo got traded to the Knicks, I relaxed because I thought maybe my name wouldn’t be in more trade rumors. Then the Deron Williams trade happens with Utah the next day or two. (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/) I found out when I think I was told to go home by the assistant GM right after the All-Star break. I didn’t know what was going on, and I don’t think anybody knew. Then, it just happened right there on ESPN.
– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/)







What are your plans down the line after you retire from basketball? Derrick Favors: I’m pretty sure I’d spend the majority of that time raising my kids and being present. Anything else I’d figure out, but I think once I’m done, I’d spend the majority of that time giving my kids the attention and love they deserve (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/).
– via Michael Scotto @ ********* (https://*********.com/lists/derrick-favors-deron-williams-carmelo-anthony-trade-talks-donovan-mitchell-rudy-gobert-jazz-era-nba-return/)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/16/23914362/jazz-mailbag-part-i-the-latest-on-the-guard-battle-kris-dunn-john-collins-and-more


Lately I’ve been wondering if it might be a better idea to put Dunn next to rookie Keyonte George and bring them off the bench, in order to bolster the second unit, but also to bring George along at a bit of a slower pace, rather than throwing him to the wolves at a time when you don’t need to speed up the timeline.



George is looking like gleaguer


On the other side of things we have Ömer Yurtseven, who unfortunately is farther down on the depth chart. The reason he hasn’t been a huge topic of conversation is because he’s at best the Jazz’s third option at center. I don’t know how much we’re actually going to be seeing him play in order to have some fully formed opinions of him as it relates to the Jazz.



He'll get some time when they need some more beef in the middle which isn't needed as much these days


Plus, why play without Collins and Lauri Markkanen when you can play with them instead?



because the rest of the league is playing small

[Xiao Yao You]

https://kslsports.com/501403/top-50-jazz-players-6-rudy-gobert/

not sure the criteria but this thing just went from laughable to pathetic. He's #3 and it's not close


By the end of his second season in Utah, Gobert had earned a spot in the team’s starting lineup while restoring legitimacy to the franchise after the disastrous Tyrone Corbin era.



1 playoff berth and 1 near playoff berth with a team built around a black hole and 1 year of tanking is disastrous?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/16/the-utah-jazzs-odd-man-out-should-be-keyonte-george-at-least-to-start-the-season/

Dunn and Agbaji should start. Sexton and Talen off the bench ideally but The Bum will have to play for a couple months unfortunately until he's dealt. George with the Stars

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/16/the-utah-jazz-should-not-run-a-four-guard-lineup-during-the-regular-season/

why not? They should be prepared for anything. GS is playing Klay at the 4. They need to look to play smaller not bigger if anything

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/15/kris-dunn-has-out-played-every-other-guard-this-preseason-and-deserves-to-start/

he's been the best player on the team. Probably their best defender. Can finish, run the offense, hit open shots

[Xiao Yao You]

Ben Rohrbach: The Utah Jazz announce they have waived Romeo Langford (https://*********.com/social/).

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



he was playing some 1 last game. Might be the Stars one if George isn't?

[Xiao Yao You]

The Rockets were also in touch with Utah on deal structures that would have sent Talen Horton-Tucker to Houston, (https://sports.yahoo.com/kevin-porter-jr-trade-begins-week-of-final-roster-moves-210020418.html) sources said.

– via Jake Fischer @ Yahoo! Sports (https://sports.yahoo.com/kevin-porter-jr-trade-begins-week-of-final-roster-moves-210020418.html)




they need to move at least 1 guy until The Bum can be dumped in a couple months

[Xiao Yao You]

The Utah Jazz have waived guard Michael Devoe, forward Keshawn Justice, and guard/forward Romeo Langford (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-waive-devoe-justice-and-langford).
– via Gabby Hundman @ NBA.com (https://www.nba.com/jazz/news/utah-jazz-waive-devoe-justice-and-langford)

[Xiao Yao You]

I saw why they want to change Sensabaugh's physique. He didn't look fat exactly just not toned. Definitely has some talent

[Xiao Yao You]

looks like Bullock for Talen works

[Xiao Yao You]

With the Jazz’s multitude of offensive-oriented guards, Dunn’s defense stands out. It’s that skill that, Hardy says, may even turn him into a starter during the 2023-24 season — as soon as opening day. “I think there are opportunities for us to change the (starting) lineup at certain times, depending on who we’re playing, Hardy said. “We’re always looking at it like we’re trying to maximize 48 minutes, but yes, Kris is somebody who could be in that slot. He could potentially be there the opening night of the season, he could not.” (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2023/10/17/kris-dunn-has-ridden-his-unique/)

– via Salt Lake Tribune (https://www.sltrib.com/sports/jazz/2023/10/17/kris-dunn-has-ridden-his-unique/)




If you're really all about putting the best players out there it should be Dunn and Agbaji no question but obviously the fact that The Bum started last year none of that is really true. It's a shame because there's a lot to like about you as a coach otherwise

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/17/5-realistic-trade-targets-for-the-utah-jazz-some-point-this-season/4/


Alex Caruso

would love him!


Tyus Jones

probably smaller than you'd like. Rather have Sexton I think

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/18/ksl-names-rudy-gobert-no-6-utah-jazz-player-ever-but-is-he/


KSL names Rudy Gobert No. 6 Utah Jazz player ever but is he?

he's 3. It's not even close. No one had close to the impact outside the statues


Well, let’s look at some key categories. Firstly, defense. Yeah, save for Kirilenko, and Mark Eaton, there isn’t a Jazz defender who matches Gorbert’s talent on the defensive end of the floor. And while we’re all on board with Eaton being seen as the better defender, it’s by relative hairs that he is.



Eaton sucked. He wasn't close to the defender Gobert was. Kirilenko might have been his all star year?


Lastly, offense and this is where Gobert flops. He was a fine rim-runner, but he wasn’t really capable of creating his own offense. He could catch lobs and was decent enough to hit his put-backs, but he wasn’t going to bring anyone out of the paint and he certainly wasn’t a threat from three-point.



you need to find something else to do with your time. His impact on offense was huge. He did all the little things so others could score. :facepalm


He has the accolades, he has the success, the problem is that his contract and behavior as of late have soured the image of Gobert. Something we were a bit guilty of. The modern narrative is that he’s overrated and isn’t very good, but he was actually the best defensive player for the Minnesota Timberwolves last season, and the team’s defense faltered with him off the court.



the non max contract that he earned by being an all NBA/DPOTY? How many Jazz players have more all NBA selections? Pretty sure just two :bowdown:

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/18/while-12th-may-be-too-low-the-criticism-around-the-utah-jazz-isnt-unfair/


That’s absurd, as this team was nearly in the playoffs last season with a less impressive roster. Sure, not having Conley hurts, but the team isn’t somehow worse today than it was at the end of the prior season.



they weren't good at the end of the year though and now The Bum is back so yes they actually might be worse especially if Dunn isn't playing. If he and Agbaji start and The Bum's minutes are limited they could surprise again

[Xiao Yao You]

https://fansided.com/posts/will-the-utah-jazz-finally-end-their-incomprehensible-triple-double-drought-01hd1nkvek88

Who cares? One of the most overrated feats in basketball. Haven't been a fan since the days of Kidd going 4-17 from the field and getting one

[Xiao Yao You]

Andy Larsen: Report from shootaround: Jordan Clarkson, John Collins, Lauri Markkanen, and Kelly Olynyk will all rest tonight vs. Sacramento (https://*********.com/social/).
– via Twitter andyblarsen (https://twitter.com/andyblarsen)

[Xiao Yao You]

https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/19/23921615/utah-jazz-high-notes-and-low-notes-from-preseason-finale


I’m starting to worry that maybe Luka Samanic hasn’t done enough during the preseason to warrant the Jazz using the final roster spot on him. He has staggered guarantee dates in his contract (one before the start of the regular season and another in January) so the Jazz could give him a few more months, but I don’t know that it’s going to happen. He’s had a rough preseason.



he hasn't looked as good as last year but he's better than Simone

[Xiao Yao You]

https://saltcityhoops.com/do-the-jazz-need-to-trade-for-a-point-guard/


Perhaps the biggest topic du jour in Jazzland is the guard rotation. The six strongest candidates for minutes are Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, Talen Horton-Tucker, Kris Dunn, Keyonte George, and Ochai Agbaji. Thus far, coach Will Hardy has solved this squeeze by playing some guards out of position. For example, Agbaji has primarily played as a forward, even though he’s ideally a shooting guard if the Jazz want to play with positional size. We’ve even seen lineups with center Walker Kessler and four guards.



I wouldn't necessarily say Agbaji is ideally a guard in today's game especially with how big the Jazz are playing though I think he should be starting at the 2 next to Dunn


The other issue facing the Jazz roster is a deficiency in passing and strong overlap in other guard skills. Sexton, THT, and Dunn prefer to score their points on drives. While THT and Dunn have had hot scoring streaks, they don’t generate gravity on the perimeter, making them shaky fits in Kessler lineups. And while Clarkson has evolved his passing game admirably, making him the primary distributor may be asking too much.



Dunn has hit open shots and Sexton can hit from anywhere. The Bum sucks. Dunn is the best fit regardless. Probably best defender on the team and one of the best in the whole league and runs the team the best. He should start no question


That said, starting the rookie to start the season isn’t a clear cut answer. Hardy has shown that playing time must be earned. Players don’t need to start to develop, and Key has already earned significant minutes as a backup in preseason play. Point guard is a notoriously hard position for rookies to play, and throwing a nineteen-year-old right into the furnace could prove unwise. Ideally George can take more and more responsibility as he becomes ready for it, rather than being the only option.



should start with the Stars clearly


Even during last year’s rebuild, the Jazz brought in veterans like Kelly Olynyk and Mike Conley to create a functional offense. Rewards were reaped, as players like Kessler and Lauri Markkanen blossomed in a stable environment. The same argument can be made for bringing in a table setter to ease George’s development as he grows into his role.



Dunn is already that guy

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/19/the-utah-jazz-waived-a-former-first-round-player-this-week-and-no-one-should-be-shocked/

still only 23. Ainge certainly sees something in him. Looked like they might want him playing the 1 with the Stars?

[Xiao Yao You]

https://thejnotes.com/2023/10/19/zach-lowe-disrespects-the-utah-jazzs-watchability-and-fun/

When the Bum was off the floor last year it was as likable of a team as the Jazz have ever had. Unselfish and they played hard