Going into last season, many outsiders predicted that the Utah Jazz would be one of the worst teams in the league and that they lacked a solid collection of talent. However, for most of last year, they were inside the playoff race. They drastically outperformed expectations, and only didn’t make the play-in tournament because they backed off for a higher draft pick. It was a season that saw Lauri Markkanen blossom into an all-star starter, and late first rounder Walker Kessler finish third in rookie of the year voting. However, it doesn’t feel as if they want to miss the playoffs again. They traded for Hawks forward John Collins earlier this offseason, in a deal that was essentially a salary dump for Atlanta. The Jazz can now be consistently big in the frontcourt with a starting trio of Markkanen, Kessler, and Collins. This came after the team had arguably the best NBA Draft of anyone this year, landing Taylor Hendricks at 9, Keyonte George at 16, and Brice Sensabaugh at number 28. George looked like a future start in the Las Vegas Summer league, and looks like arguably the steal of the draft. Jordan Clarkson opted into the last year of his contract, and brings a lot of momentum after a solid world cup with the Philippines. The 21 points per game with the Jazz last season was a career high for him. Speaking of breakout players from last season, Markkanen will be looking to continue his ascension after being named an all-star starter last season. The organization and fans also love second year guard Ochai Agbaji, and he could take a step this year. Then they have wildcards like Collin Sexton, Talen Horton-Tucker, and Kris Dunn. This team overperformed last season, but with their impressive offseason, this season will come with real expectations. And Utah is ready for it. The Jazz are on the verge of a breakout season.
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4 Comments
The length the Jazz have is insanity. Kessler excels because he is very gifted and is an intelligent player. He is cerebral in his approach to the game and his development.
Lauri will continue to take the next steps to become a fundamental peice.
The biggest opportunity belongs to Sexton. He has been putting in the work like a man on a mission.
The rookies could have the true potential to be the future. Taylor Hendricks just might surprise the league. Keyonte has "it" and the franchise is all in. Brice Sensabaugh has worked hard to become more fit for the NBA game. IMO, he is the rookie with the most to prove. The org had him 19 on their board, but slipping to 28 is a shot at his game.
Lastly, Ainge, Zanick, Hardy, and his staff have built a culture that demands everyone to work like a champion.
Don't be surprised if Danny is active in the trade market.
Ryan Smith has stated publicly many times that he is dead serious about winning it all. They are creating something unique. He just launched the team's own streaming service in conjunction with The League Pass and bought a regional TV station to air all Jazz games free of charge. This year will be a blast and I think the Jazz will surprise a lot of people.
Think jazz be better than rocket's
Jazz could easily outperform OKC. They did last year up until they blatantly tanked
Jazz are coming for the league this year!! Seasons almost here herm!! Good to see your videos again 🔥