Official 2018-19 Utah Jazz Thread

[the27guy]

Another Year..... another Jazz thread

Who is ready for the Jazz to shock the world? :)

Anybody listen to Gobert on the Lowe Post today? Man I love Gobert. Dude has a mental list of who he has blocked and who he hasn't. Amazing.

Can't wait for the season to start. Go Jazz!

[OddityCards]

Over/under at 44??? I"m heading to Vegas baby!!

[SHowley2003]

Over/under at 44??? I"m heading to Vegas baby!!

Over. They are a well run team, they will win he games they are supposed to more often than not and they will be able to “steal” a few against the powerhouses of the West. They had 48 wins last years and I would assume they match or best that mark.

I’m just hoping Utah gets their fair share of nationally televised games.

[CubKings]

It would be lovely if we can shock the world.

[the27guy]

Over/under at 44??? I"m heading to Vegas baby!!

I hate under/overs because they can be so effected by a single injury.

Having said that, if they're reasonably healthy, I'd take the over. Team won nearly 80% of their games once healthy, they're bringing back the whole team, they are now getting a healthy Exum and Thabo, and you would expect the young core to get better.

Over. They are a well run team, they will win he games they are supposed to more often than not and they will be able to “steal” a few against the powerhouses of the West. They had 48 wins last years and I would assume they match or best that mark.

I’m just hoping Utah gets their fair share of nationally televised games.

Seems like Donovan is a darling.... I'd imagine we get a lot more than last year.

It would be lovely if we can shock the world.

If we're healthy.... watch out.

[babyfaceposey]

I was wrong about Mitchell. He is amazing. Looking to see what he does this year.

[jazz1232dc]

Very good read...

https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/8/22/17764968/are-we-sure-utah-jazz-second-best-west

[Jpayne7787]

They will have an excellent regular season, then trounced by the Rockets in the first round when Melo drops 50 on them in an eliminator, It is known.

[the27guy]

Very good read...

https://www.theringer.com/nba/2018/8/22/17764968/are-we-sure-utah-jazz-second-best-west

Read this today. Was also going to post it. Lots of high-IQ basketball stuff here. Love it.

They will have an excellent regular season, then trounced by the Rockets in the first round when Melo drops 50 on them in an eliminator, It is known.

I love how you love your Rockets. Apparently, Donovan, CP, and Harden have hung out a lot this summer. I hope we see you guys in the second round this year with a healthy squad. That could be a lot of fun. :)

[ballhawkdawk]

I never really have a “second team,” but if there was ever a non-Philly team I root for, it’s this Jazz squad. I think Donovan Mitchell has IT. Best of luck and hopefully a healthy season.

[SHowley2003]

I never really have a “second team,” but if there was ever a non-Philly team I root for, it’s this Jazz squad. I think Donovan Mitchell has IT. Best of luck and hopefully a healthy season.

I’m with you. I usually count San Antonio as my #2 but I’ve transitioned to the Jazz. Crowder (PC) helps, as does the Hayward connection. Outside of those factors though I’m just excited to see a small market team that is so well managed. (Unlike Philly and their burner accounts).

[Jpayne7787]

Read this today. Was also going to post it. Lots of high-IQ basketball stuff here. Love it.



I love how you love your Rockets. Apparently, Donovan, CP, and Harden have hung out a lot this summer. I hope we see you guys in the second round this year with a healthy squad. That could be a lot of fun. :)

I’m being optimistic and hoping this will be the conference finals match up rather than second round but yes this will be a fun series again, espicially if Ricky is healthy and my sleeper ROY pick pans out :D

[ballhawkdawk]

I’m with you. I usually count San Antonio as my #2 but I’ve transitioned to the Jazz. Crowder (PC) helps, as does the Hayward connection. Outside of those factors though I’m just excited to see a small market team that is so well managed. (Unlike Philly and their burner accounts).

Oh snaps... two months away from regular season and shots are already being fired! Gonna be a fun season.

[Orndorff24a]

I’m excited to see what some continuity brings. If Gobert stays healthy....watch out!

[the27guy]

Finally!

[theLUCKYshow]

Not a Utah fan but just wanted to drop in and say you guys are -8.5 against SAC tonight. I'm a Kings fan but Im Charlie Hustle tonight.

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[the27guy]

Not a Utah fan but just wanted to drop in and say you guys are -8.5 against SAC tonight. I'm a Kings fan but Im Charlie Hustle tonight.

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Good luck to you guys this year. Hopefully Bagley and Hield can form a young nucleus....

And hopefully we win. :)

[theLUCKYshow]

Good luck to you guys this year. Hopefully Bagley and Hield can form a young nucleus....

And hopefully we win. :)Thanks. Hopefully we find out who out of our young guys is our core by playing them a lot. I fear what minutes ZBo and Kosta may get.

Good luck to you guys, too. No one's sleeping on you this year but man you guys really don't have any weakness. I'd be shocked if the Jazz dont win by 20 tonight.

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[SHowley2003]

I just set them as a "favorite" on my cable box so I get notifications of when they are playing! Looking forward to seeing what this squad can do.

[Potgut]

Who is ready for the Jazz to shock the world? :)


Losing to Sacramento would definitely shock the world.

Anyway, yeah, I can see Jazz going to finals if our team stays healthy. Jazz vs Celtics in finals; but if not this year, within the next 3 years for sure.

[the27guy]

Losing to Sacramento would definitely shock the world.

Anyway, yeah, I can see Jazz going to finals if our team stays healthy. Jazz vs Celtics in finals; but if not this year, within the next 3 years for sure.

Closer than I’d have liked.

Game one takeaways.

1. Donovan was TERRIBLE. And ended up w 24.

2. Ricky was as bad as I’ve ever seen him.

3. Rudy was fine. Cauly stein was impressive. If he can avoid being a total head case, that guy has a chance to be really good.

4. Joe Ingles won this game for the jazz. Sacto was running away before Joe brought them back.

5. But the story of the night for me was Dante Exum. He was so good. Defensively. His speed. Decision making. To see Quin go with Dante over ricky says a lot. Dante was better tonight.

[JHH]

Closer than I’d have liked.

Game one takeaways.

1. Donovan was TERRIBLE. And ended up w 24.

2. Ricky was as bad as I’ve ever seen him.

3. Rudy was fine. Cauly stein was impressive. If he can avoid being a total head case, that guy has a chance to be really good.

4. Joe Ingles won this game for the jazz. Sacto was running away before Joe brought them back.

5. But the story of the night for me was Dante Exum. He was so good. Defensively. His speed. Decision making. To see Quin go with Dante over ricky says a lot. Dante was better tonight.

I agree with it too, the way Spidy and Rubio played today was surprising. :doh:

And Ingles played a great game like he did last year! :)!

[GoClips!]

Honestly, JIngles is one of the most underrated players in the game. I knew it was a mistake when the Clippers cut him, but I had no idea how big of one. I'll always cheer for Toby from the Office.

[the27guy]

Honestly, JIngles is one of the most underrated players in the game. I knew it was a mistake when the Clippers cut him, but I had no idea how big of one. I'll always cheer for Toby from the Office.

No one could have known. Dude is legitimately an above average starting small forward. Things I never thought I’d say. Tonight’s probably the fifth or sixth time where he gets to 20 points and literally just stops shooting.... and gets everyone else involved. Easily the third best player on the team. Which is just crazy.

And yes, he looks just like Toby.

[GoClips!]

No one could have known. Dude is legitimately an above average starting small forward. Things I never thought I’d say. Tonight’s probably the fifth or sixth time where he gets to 20 points and literally just stops shooting.... and gets everyone else involved. Easily the third best player on the team. Which is just crazy.

And yes, he looks just like Toby.

Yeah, no doubt. I thought he'd be a rotation wing player who offered some outside shooting and basketball IQ. I, along with everybody, had any idea how much that IQ would matter. He may be one of the smartest players in the whole league.

[jazz1232dc]

Well, looks like early season Rubio is back. Just lucky Exum looks like he's ready to take over the point. I really hope he stays healthy this year. Could be in line for comeback player of the year.

[the27guy]

Well, looks like early season Rubio is back. Just lucky Exum looks like he's ready to take over the point. I really hope he stays healthy this year. Could be in line for comeback player of the year.

I hear you. I thought the same things.

But remember how good Ricky was the last 40 games of last year and then several games of that OKC series. Might just be rust. Plys, Fox is FAST. Rubio is going to struggle with the really fast PG's.

[the27guy]

Dante Exum.

[daviswr7]

Jerebko? Really??

That isn’t our game, but it was fun to watch until the end...Better times ahead.

[Orndorff24a]

Love how the offense looks when the ball is in Ingles hands....Mitchell needs to show a bit more patience. And Rudy!! Don't let Jerebko box you out! That game was ours :(

[Potgut]

I'm happy with how deep good our team is and how good we're doing w/o Rubio and Mitchell not necessary playing like we're used to; imagine how good we can be once Rubio and Mitchell get their mojos back.

Ingles and Dante have been impressive these first 2 games, but now I'm even beginning to grow more confidence on Burks and Niang. I hope these games weren't just few-times great games for Ingles, but rather a sign of breakout year where he takes a leap of having consistent great games.

[jazz1232dc]

Donovan is really struggling. You can see him pressing. We'll see just how big of a superstar he is this year when every team's game plan is to shut him down.

I think his struggles will continue for a while but he'll figure it out. Tonight was an offensive struggle, but I was pleased with how the defense looked.

[the27guy]

Rudy Gobert, man. Second straight game where he had like 7 awesome dunks.

[HP7163]

Donovan is really struggling. You can see him pressing. We'll see just how big of a superstar he is this year when every team's game plan is to shut him down.

I think his struggles will continue for a while but he'll figure it out. Tonight was an offensive struggle, but I was pleased with how the defense looked.

He showed last yr in the playpffs he could handle teams.. hes getting everything thrown at him and is to.good not to respond

[the27guy]

He showed last yr in the playpffs he could handle teams.. hes getting everything thrown at him and is to.good not to respond

In the three games since that comment was made, Donovan has been stellar and the jazz have won all three.

[jazz1232dc]

I have to keep reminding myself that this is a LONG season. I wasn't expecting this kind of start.

[smalltown]

I have to keep reminding myself that this is a LONG season. I wasn't expecting this kind of start.

You guys will be fine. I think expectations were a bit high to start the year. But 4-6 isn't a big hole to dig out of.

[the27guy]

I have to keep reminding myself that this is a LONG season. I wasn't expecting this kind of start.

Four things.

1. The schedule. Go look at it. Jazz might have had the toughest schedule to date. Also, how’s this for a crazy fact - they don’t play a single team that won more than 50 games last year after the AS break. The point is, the schedule is a beast but if they can hold it together until the final 25 games, watch out.

2. No Donovan = in trouble on offense.

3. The jazz were possibly the team most effected by the freedom of movement rules changes. The NBA moved the goal posts on them. They need to figure out how to play defense without fouling. Thus far, they have not.

4. Ricky has certainly been bad-ricky so far. If it doesn’t get better, the team is toast.

[smalltown]

3. The jazz were possibly the team most effected by the freedom of movement rules changes. The NBA moved the goal posts on them. They need to figure out how to play defense without fouling. Thus far, they have not.

I've heard that a few times now but that's being overused as an excuse. The numbers just don't play out. The Jazz are getting to the line much more than their opponents. The NBA moved the goal posts on everyone.

Jazz 41 - Raps 14
Jazz 24 - Nuggets 19
Jazz 25 - Grizz 34
Jazz 30 - Twolves 24
Jazz 22 - Dal 25
Jazz 37 - Pel 29
Jazz 28 - Hou 14
Jazz 23 - Grizz 26
Jazz 29 - GS 19
Jazz 38 - Sac 18

I think the biggest issue is the Jazz have no real secondary scoring and teams have had a whole season to game play around Mitchell.

[the27guy]

I've heard that a few times now but that's being overused as an excuse. The numbers just don't play out. The Jazz are getting to the line much more than their opponents. The NBA moved the goal posts on everyone.

Jazz 41 - Raps 14
Jazz 24 - Nuggets 19
Jazz 25 - Grizz 34
Jazz 30 - Twolves 24
Jazz 22 - Dal 25
Jazz 37 - Pel 29
Jazz 28 - Hou 14
Jazz 23 - Grizz 26
Jazz 29 - GS 19
Jazz 38 - Sac 18

I think the biggest issue is the Jazz have no real secondary scoring and teams have had a whole season to game play around Mitchell.

I'm aware that the rules changed for everyone.


The defense went from being the best in the league for the second half of last season (with a HISTORIC rate) to average in the first ten games of this season with no material changes to the roster.

[smalltown]

the rules changed for everyone... no material changes to the roster.

That's what i'm saying. The rule changes are just a convenient excuse. They're getting more calls than their opponents. Other teams know what to expect from the Jazz now. They're not surprising anyone anymore.

I'm arguing it's their offence that's failing them right now. They're tied with Brooklyn for 20th - they need to figure that out more than their defence in my opinion. And i think they will.

[the27guy]

That's what i'm saying. The rule changes are just a convenient excuse. They're getting more calls than their opponents. Other teams know what to expect from the Jazz now. They're not surprising anyone anymore.

I'm arguing it's their offence that's failing them right now. They're tied with Brooklyn for 20th - they need to figure that out more than their defence in my opinion. And i think they will.

Their offense is close to the same ranking as it was last year. The defense has plummeted.

PS - listening to "the drop".... they literally just said the same thing I'm saying.

[the27guy]

Welp.... I can die a happy man. Check out who liked my tweet!

RUDY!!!!

http://i.imgur.com/oRn9yMph.jpg

[broncomanning18]

Why do they keep losing at home, I dont get it, they use to have an unreal home court advantage, mitchell even scores 35 and they still lose, what is happening ?

[the27guy]

We suck. We suck. We suck.

[broncomanning18]

We suck. We suck. We suck.

what is happening ????

[the27guy]

what is happening ????

I don’t have the emotional intelligence to talk about it. I am sorry.

We are all pissed off in jazz world. Everything is bad.

[broncomanning18]

I don’t have the emotional intelligence to talk about it. I am sorry.

We are all pissed off in jazz world. Everything is bad.

I understand man, well, ingles is still my favorite player in the league, and I still believe in mitchell as a real superstar in the future

[CubKings]

Yeah, idk what's going on either. The team is healthy, everyone is playing, but we keep getting blown out. Even by the scrub teams.

I hope they get something figured out and get this right. Because its not right.

[rhigh2390]

Hope you guys get it figured out soon. Really enjoyed this team last year and expected really good things this year. Been ugly so far.

You guys really remind me of the Celtics of the West. I know you don't have quite as much talent, but just a hard nosed, defensive team that can struggle offensively it seems.

[the27guy]

We suck.

[DevinKurant]

We suck.



Lol. Tank for Zion.

I’m sorry this season has not lived up to expectations thus far. 2019 offseason could bring good fortune

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181127/f25a4be27a9834ea1311d1e62e5ba85a.png


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[hofcollector2]

All the good teams across the board are down this year. I expect the good teams (rockets, jazz, warriors, etc, same with the east) to be in playoff form by mid season. Very odd season. I blame all the rule changes and lack of defense. It gives even a crappy team a chance to win now.

[the27guy]

Jazz are 1-0 since trading for Korver.









;)

[PKIPP]

Great games for Donovan and Rudy! Back in the win column!

Good move getting Korver in the trade, only somewhat disappointed that they traded AB. I like that dude off the bench but adding Korver is more important.

[clipperboy24]

Jazz are 1-0 since trading for Korver.









;)

Haha, enjoy it there hasn’t been much upside this season so far! I think this trade really balances them out, Burks just wasn’t a good enough shooter (decent this year at 37% from 3) but man to have a spot up shooter like Korver that’ll be nice

[the27guy]

Great games for Donovan and Rudy! Back in the win column!

Good move getting Korver in the trade, only somewhat disappointed that they traded AB. I like that dude off the bench but adding Korver is more important.

The sense that I’ve had is that spirits have been very low. No one has been happy. Just getting a guy with a championship pedigree like Kyle is extremely valuable. Now add that we know he liked it here, and the team really needs shooting, and the move makes a ton of sense.

The thing that I have always wondered is whether ingles should be playing some 4. This allows you to put Rudy on the court with two of the best shooters in the world and a guy in Donovan who showed last year that he can create for himself.

I don’t know how many minutes a game joe can give you at the 4.... but that could be really good. Now, if only Exum could shoot. :(

[theleica]

Great games for Donovan and Rudy! Back in the win column!

Good move getting Korver in the trade, only somewhat disappointed that they traded AB. I like that dude off the bench but adding Korver is more important.

I was at the game tonight. It was awesome. Donovan Mitchell signed a jersey for my 7 year old son before the game and somehow we got bumped to 8th row center court seats.

[SHowley2003]

I was at the game tonight. It was awesome. Donovan Mitchell signed a jersey for my 7 year old son before the game and somehow we got bumped to 8th row center court seats.

Now that’s a good night!

[clipperboy24]

I was at the game tonight. It was awesome. Donovan Mitchell signed a jersey for my 7 year old son before the game and somehow we got bumped to 8th row center court seats.

Dang very cool!

[PKIPP]

The sense that I’ve had is that spirits have been very low. No one has been happy. Just getting a guy with a championship pedigree like Kyle is extremely valuable. Now add that we know he liked it here, and the team really needs shooting, and the move makes a ton of sense.

The thing that I have always wondered is whether ingles should be playing some 4. This allows you to put Rudy on the court with two of the best shooters in the world and a guy in Donovan who showed last year that he can create for himself.

I don’t know how many minutes a game joe can give you at the 4.... but that could be really good. Now, if only Exum could shoot. :(

Ingles at the 4 may be good for them, it would give them a lot more spacing. And Favors could play some 4 and backup 5. Having Korver there also gives Grayson Allen a good example to follow and someone to learn from, who he probably really respects as a fellow 3-point specialist kinda guy.

[PKIPP]

I was at the game tonight. It was awesome. Donovan Mitchell signed a jersey for my 7 year old son before the game and somehow we got bumped to 8th row center court seats.

That's amazing and not surprising to me. Mitchell is a class act! That's an awesome experience that your boy will never forget!

[PKIPP]

They looked pretty good again tonight. Another big game for Donovan, also Rudy and Jae.. Korver looked nice in his return to Utah! Things looking up.

[tjforce]

They looked pretty good again tonight. Another big game for Donovan, also Rudy and Jae.. Korver looked nice in his return to Utah! Things looking up.

For sure....

Donovan has shown flashes here and there, but inconsistent.


Hope he can put up a few 30+ point games in a row.

[SHowley2003]

Crowder dropping 24 on 8 of 13. I wish I could watch this team more often. Looking forward to seeing what they can do with a healthy Donovan and Ashton Kutcher, I mean Kyle Korver, spreading out defenses. Gobert will be even better if Ingles, Kutcher and Crowder can be consistent jump shooting threats along with Mitchell being a go-to scorer.

[PKIPP]

For sure....

Donovan has shown flashes here and there, but inconsistent.


Hope he can put up a few 30+ point games in a row.

Yeah man, one thing that's really good is even though he's not been his best from deep so far this season, he's showing a very improved midrange jumpshot. Huge addition to his game.

[BayAreaWarrior]

Gobert is having a great year. 4 blocks in back to back games. Surely, a front runner for defensive player of the year again.

[the27guy]

Crowder dropping 24 on 8 of 13. I wish I could watch this team more often. Looking forward to seeing what they can do with a healthy Donovan and Ashton Kutcher, I mean Kyle Korver, spreading out defenses. Gobert will be even better if Ingles, Kutcher and Crowder can be consistent jump shooting threats along with Mitchell being a go-to scorer.

If the jazz can space the floor around Rudy and Donovan can get back to being a guy that can’t be contained in man defense, the jazz become a scary team.

[PKIPP]

well that was a fun game to watch tonight.. Unless you're a spurs fan! :D team 3 point records broken tonight. Donovan didn't even need to play the 4th. The ball movement tonight was vintage Utah Jazz!

Korver trade paying off already.

[the27guy]

well that was a fun game to watch tonight.. Unless you're a spurs fan! :D team 3 point records broken tonight. Donovan didn't even need to play the 4th. The ball movement tonight was vintage Utah Jazz!

Korver trade paying off already.

This team is so ridiculous. I’ve rarely seen a a team that can swing from incredible to awful so quickly. Looked awesome tonight. Not up to 3-6 at home. Sigh.

[spurs50fan]

This team is so ridiculous. I’ve rarely seen a a team that can swing from incredible to awful so quickly. Looked awesome tonight. Not up to 3-6 at home. Sigh.

Spurs say “hold my beer”......I think that’s the phrase lol

That may be why their records are close. You don’t know which team is going to show night to night

[ballhawkdawk]

Gobert tossed within 3 mins... WTF. National game with two good teams and Gobert has to get himself ejected.

[the27guy]

Gobert tossed within 3 mins... WTF. National game with two good teams and Gobert has to get himself ejected.

Jazz local media acting like this is the worst officiated game of all time.

[CubKings]

But we're up by 25....

[the27guy]

But we're up by 25....

35. Boom.

[drobfan8]

Utah are taking care of business, beating the teams around them on the ladder. And without Gobert essentially, and DM not playing so good.

These guys might rattle off 35 wins in 37 games again or whatever it was.

[Jhedges]

Looks like we are finally getting in a groove. I think the trade was a huge help oh and getting Donovan back sure didn’t hurt either!

[PKIPP]

At the Pistons vs Jazz game right now. Looking like the jazz are going to win. Andre Drummond was talking trash to mitchell at the beginning of the fourth. Mitchell goes on a tear down the stretch and points at Andre and says "you see that? That's your fault! Foh!" Lol they were cool after the game though.

I love my Pistons but man Donovan put on a great performance tonight! Glad I came to watch.

[Ross]

At the Pistons vs Jazz game right now. Looking like the jazz are going to win. Andre Drummond was talking trash to mitchell at the beginning of the fourth. Mitchell goes on a tear down the stretch and points at Andre and says "you see that? That's your fault! Foh!" Lol they were cool after the game though.

I love my Pistons but man Donovan put on a great performance tonight! Glad I came to watch.

He has been inefficient this year but if inefficient is at .500 and scoring 20+ a game than so be it. Kid is special- Ice cold down the stretch with a big three and a big icing 2... Hes the real deal.

[PKIPP]

He has been inefficient this year but if inefficient is at .500 and scoring 20+ a game than so be it. Kid is special- Ice cold down the stretch with a big three and a big icing 2... Hes the real deal.

100% agree. One of my favorite players to watch.

[Ross]

100% agree. One of my favorite players to watch.



Agreed. He gets a lot of criticism and I get it but man he just turned 22 and he’s out there getting em almost every night. Wait until he fine tunes his signature moves and gets more refined like the Lillards, Hardin’s and Westbrook’s


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[Jhedges]

So nice to have a Mitchell dominate performance. Especially after the 2 point first half. Our season turned around last year at Detroit hoping for a repeat this year.

[tjforce]

One of the least impressive 26 point games I've ever seen out of Mitchell.

8-24 shooting with 3 rebounds, 1 assist and 7 turnovers. Scoreless in the 4th.

Disappointing because they looked like they might win this one.

[the27guy]

Just saw this tweet.....

Jazz have played 25 road games in 84 nights since the season started = 1 every 3.3 days.

Now they face 16 road games in 93 days, or 1 every 5.8 days.

Get those legs back.

[Ross]

Just saw this tweet.....

Jazz have played 25 road games in 84 nights since the season started = 1 every 3.3 days.

Now they face 16 road games in 93 days, or 1 every 5.8 days.

Get those legs back.



Agreed. 8 of the next 9 at home and they have been playing all of the good teams tough. They still need another scoring option b4 trade deadline. Rumor is Kevin Love... That would be huge


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[the27guy]

Agreed. 8 of the next 9 at home and they have been playing all of the good teams tough. They still need another scoring option b4 trade deadline. Rumor is Kevin Love... That would be huge


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Not a good time to lose both Exum and Rubio. Donovon is going to get some time at point!

[ballhawkdawk]

What do y’all think about Mitchell’s future? I was big on him last year. He has the killer mentality to really dominate, but has been a brick machine this year. Wondering what the Jazz fans are seeing that the rest of us only see in glimpses. I still think he may emerge as the best player of the last 3-4 drafts. That kind of attitude is very rare. I’m just wondering why he’s struggled to take that next step this year. Talking strictly hoops here, not the hobby.

[the27guy]

What do y’all think about Mitchell’s future? I was big on him last year. He has the killer mentality to really dominate, but has been a brick machine this year. Wondering what the Jazz fans are seeing that the rest of us only see in glimpses. I still think he may emerge as the best player of the last 3-4 drafts. That kind of attitude is very rare. I’m just wondering why he’s struggled to take that next step this year. Talking strictly hoops here, not the hobby.

The whole team has taken a step back. He's probably the person who has fallen the farthest. Having said that, the team has played the toughest schedule to date. See my comment above about road games. The schedule has been a weird one for the Jazz. Examples

1. 16 home vs 25 on the road.
2. They had the awesome luck of playing Memphis three times in a month when they were destroying everyone.
3. Until a couple weeks ago they hadn't played any of the worst 6 teams in the league even once. Seriously. They've now gotten to play the Knicks and Cavs. Still haven't seen Phoenix, amazingly.

The point is, despite having the most difficult SOS in the league, they're a half game away from .500.

Now.... watch this though.... seriously look at this. The rest of the schedule. I know, I know, it's half of the season, but LOOK!

https://www.nba.com/jazz/schedule

I'm not saying that they're gonna go on a crazy run like they did the second half of last season, but the discrepancy between the first half vs the second half is WILD. They could easily still be a 50 win team.... if not for a new major problem.

Both Exum and Rubio are hurt. Both point guards. We're going to be running Raul Neto probably 25 minutes a game and running without a point guard for the rest of the game. It's a bad situation.... and it's happening right as the team should really be making hay.

HOw does all this relate to Donovon? No idea, honestly. He needs to learn to be more efficient. But don't let the current record dissuade you. Time to finish strong. 50 is still possible. But they have to get by without a point guard for a while.

[Ross]

What do y’all think about Mitchell’s future? I was big on him last year. He has the killer mentality to really dominate, but has been a brick machine this year. Wondering what the Jazz fans are seeing that the rest of us only see in glimpses. I still think he may emerge as the best player of the last 3-4 drafts. That kind of attitude is very rare. I’m just wondering why he’s struggled to take that next step this year. Talking strictly hoops here, not the hobby.



My challenge with the word “jump” is that it implies he was magically going to go 28-5-5 a game with no issues. The guy is 22 and is still learning the game at the nba level. In addition he has all the tools to be great and he’s confident in that, plus doesn’t get to high or low. Look at any of the 6’2-6’5 guards that are “stars” in the nba right now:

Westbrook, Harden, Curry, Lillard and so on. Check out their stats from their first 2-3-4 years- they to had challenges and hiccups. I am not implying that he is a shoe-in to being in the same class as all those guys mentioned, but to say averaging the same as last year on all fronts with the team .5 Games out of .500 against the toughest first half schedule is a little silly. What’s more is he was out more than half the summer with the injury.

Sure I’m a homer and a massive fan, but I guess I don’t know what folks expect. People are raving about Doncic right now and Dallas has themselves firmly in second to last place in the West.


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[ballhawkdawk]

My challenge with the word “jump” is that it implies he was magically going to go 28-5-5 a game with no issues. The guy is 22 and is still learning the game at the nba level. In addition he has all the tools to be great and he’s confident in that, plus doesn’t get to high or low. Look at any of the 6’2-6’5 guards that are “stars” in the nba right now:

Westbrook, Harden, Curry, Lillard and so on. Check out their stats from their first 2-3-4 years- they to had challenges and hiccups. I am not implying that he is a shoe-in to being in the same class as all those guys mentioned, but to say averaging the same as last year on all fronts with the team .5 Games out of .500 against the toughest first half schedule is a little silly. What’s more is he was out more than half the summer with the injury.

Sure I’m a homer and a massive fan, but I guess I don’t know what folks expect. People are raving about Doncic right now and Dallas has themselves firmly in second to last place in the West.


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I'm not hating by any means. I like Mitchell a lot. I'm just trying to get an objective take from you guys on this one and wondering what specifically you see as his struggling points.

If we're being honest, he's not averaging what he did last year. He averaged 22.5 PPG post AS break shooting 43.2%. I think it's reasonable to ignore the earlier portions of last year when he was just getting his feet wet, as the 9.3 PPG in October and 18.1 PPG in November are not indicative of how the rest of his year went when he made a strong push for ROY. His PPG and shooting % is down this year in comparison to how he ended the second half of last year. I get that young players struggle, but is it just a matter of shots not falling, poor shot selection, better defense, injuries? I'm not saying I expected him to be a 28 PPG guy, but to at least maintain what he had going at the end of last year and into the playoffs seems like a reasonable expectation. It's no secret that he's struggling.

You and 27guy both have good points... summer league injury, lack of a PG, incredibly tough schedule, etc. Other elite guards, Doncic, and the team and their current standing aren't necessarily relevant to DM himself, though. I'm curious to see how things go the rest of the season. Again, I'm not hating... I love him as a player and think he has D-Wade level potential once he really learns the game.

[the27guy]

I'm not hating by any means. I like Mitchell a lot. I'm just trying to get an objective take from you guys on this one and wondering what specifically you see as his struggling points.

If we're being honest, he's not averaging what he did last year. He averaged 22.5 PPG post AS break shooting 43.2%. I think it's reasonable to ignore the earlier portions of last year when he was just getting his feet wet, as the 9.3 PPG in October and 18.1 PPG in November are not indicative of how the rest of his year went when he made a strong push for ROY. His PPG and shooting % is down this year in comparison to how he ended the second half of last year. I get that young players struggle, but is it just a matter of shots not falling, poor shot selection, better defense, injuries? I'm not saying I expected him to be a 28 PPG guy, but to at least maintain what he had going at the end of last year and into the playoffs seems like a reasonable expectation. It's no secret that he's struggling.

You and 27guy both have good points... summer league injury, lack of a PG, incredibly tough schedule, etc. Other elite guards, Doncic, and the team and their current standing aren't necessarily relevant to DM himself, though. I'm curious to see how things go the rest of the season. Again, I'm not hating... I love him as a player and think he has D-Wade level potential once he really learns the game.

The second half may be very different from the first just because of SoS. If it's not, then that's a big red flag. He's at 20.4 PPG which is disappointing. His shot has not progressed. He needs to be better. I think he will be.

[SHowley2003]

The second half may be very different from the first just because of SoS. If it's not, then that's a big red flag. He's at 20.4 PPG which is disappointing. His shot has not progressed. He needs to be better. I think he will be.

I’m going to over simplify it by saying that based on the 2nd half of last year teams have adjusted and now are game planning their defensive schemes around interrupting his game. Also, like most 2nd year players, especially those that play in the playoffs, he has hit a wall as the physical and mental grind is so much more intense than he’s likely ever experienced. Between now and the end of next season it’s up to Mitchell to adjust to those new challenges. That doesn’t happen overnight. It does seem like the Jazz fans are confident that he does have the ability to make those adjustments and continue to improve.

[Jhedges]

How long can we keep the Mitchell is a Chucker/Overrated/Sophomore Slump narrative going? Asking for my PC.

[Texanwatson]

How long can we keep the Mitchell is a Chucker/Overrated/Sophomore Slump narrative going? Asking for my PC.



scoring 33 on 21 shots seems good to me, people sure are hard on this guy, maybe that is telling of how much talent he really has

[PKIPP]

As much as being down 20+ to the Orlando Magic is not good, it definitely was nice too see them comeback and Donovan lead them. I feel like they almost needed that scenario. Big confidence boost to the team, especially with Rubio and exum out. This Neto guy seems like a pretty good player to have stashed on the bench going down the stretch. Doesn't let his small size scare him from attacking

[the27guy]

5 straight wins.... good one against the Clips in LA last night....

Here are the talking points -

1. Is Donovan our point guard now? It's easy to be convinced about that, but Rubio/Exum getting hurt coincided with the schedule shift. Tough to tell.

2. Rudy is officially destroying everyone. Everyone. The defense is back to being the best in the league again. He keeps playing like this and the DPOY award is his again.

3. Trades? Risk it?

4. If the Jazz keep playing like this, where might they end up in the standings?

[Potgut]

Jazz started the 1st half of the year with one of the hardest schedule, now they follow the 2nd half with one of the easiest schedules (http://www.espn.com/nba/team/schedule/_/name/utah) including 8 of their next 10 games at home.

Watching these games it's crazy how much of a force Rudy Gobert is on the court. Just watch how the opponents offense changes when Gobert is out on the bench resting vs on the court. When Gobert gets on the court is mere presence will force the opponents to mold into playing differently to try to get points occasionally some players become frustrated and they start getting more fouls or even technical fouls.

[sigmachi]

Donovan needs to have the ball in his hands. That was proven in the playoffs and again during the winning streak. Sure he has a lot to learn as a pg but the team is so much better

[PKIPP]

5 straight wins.... good one against the Clips in LA last night....

Here are the talking points -

1. Is Donovan our point guard now? It's easy to be convinced about that, but Rubio/Exum getting hurt coincided with the schedule shift. Tough to tell.

2. Rudy is officially destroying everyone. Everyone. The defense is back to being the best in the league again. He keeps playing like this and the DPOY award is his again.

3. Trades? Risk it?

4. If the Jazz keep playing like this, where might they end up in the standings?

I really think Donovan has gotta play the point. I like Ricky but sometimes he only looks for the homerun pass on offense rather than the set up the offense pass. Which is frustrating because sometimes he goes a full quarter without even looking in Donovan's direction. I've noticed that a ton. When Mitchell is at point, just seems like everyone still touches the ball even though he's getting his. I still like Dante to be the backup at point, and him and Donovan can for sure play together at times. I feel like asking Ricky to come off the bench wouldn't be fair to him though, so it's not an easy decision they'll have to make. Unless he says he's cool with a bench role, but I don't think that's likely. I wouldn't blame him.

2. Without Rudy idk where they'd be. He's doing solid offensively and on the boards, and protecting the rim like always, Jazz defense runs through him. He's got a great chance at winning the DPOY back to back.

3. I think ideally for me at least.. Finding a trade for Rubio in exchange for a stretch 4 would be interesting. In that scenario the rotation would look something like this:

PG: Mitchell/Exum
SG: Korver/O'Neal/Exum
SF: Ingles/Crowder
PF: Favors/Newly acquired stretch 4
C: Gobert/Favors

Would be some combination of those 9 guys.

I have no idea who the right stretch 4 may be though, I've heard Jabari Parker and Otto Porter both mentioned by ESPN NBA people. I'm not sure if want to carry either of those contracts past this season though. So it's tough.

4. I'm not sure where they ultimately end up.. But I think they'll at least be in the playoffs. I wouldn't be shocked if they ended up in the fifth seed by season's end.

[the27guy]

I really think Donovan has gotta play the point. I like Ricky but sometimes he only looks for the homerun pass on offense rather than the set up the offense pass. Which is frustrating because sometimes he goes a full quarter without even looking in Donovan's direction. I've noticed that a ton. When Mitchell is at point, just seems like everyone still touches the ball even though he's getting his. I still like Dante to be the backup at point, and him and Donovan can for sure play together at times. I feel like asking Ricky to come off the bench wouldn't be fair to him though, so it's not an easy decision they'll have to make. Unless he says he's cool with a bench role, but I don't think that's likely. I wouldn't blame him.

2. Without Rudy idk where they'd be. He's doing solid offensively and on the boards, and protecting the rim like always, Jazz defense runs through him. He's got a great chance at winning the DPOY back to back.

3. I think ideally for me at least.. Finding a trade for Rubio in exchange for a stretch 4 would be interesting. In that scenario the rotation would look something like this:

PG: Mitchell/Exum
SG: Korver/O'Neal/Exum
SF: Ingles/Crowder
PF: Favors/Newly acquired stretch 4
C: Gobert/Favors

Would be some combination of those 9 guys.

I have no idea who the right stretch 4 may be though, I've heard Jabari Parker and Otto Porter both mentioned by ESPN NBA people. I'm not sure if want to carry either of those contracts past this season though. So it's tough.

4. I'm not sure where they ultimately end up.. But I think they'll at least be in the playoffs. I wouldn't be shocked if they ended up in the fifth seed by season's end.

Stellar post. I'll add a few thoughts.

It feels like your lineup is big on size and short on quickness. Korver just can't guard many if any two's in today's NBA. He's still good positionally... but IDK. If Royce can shoot.... wow. What a player, especially on that contract. Plus, obviously DM loves him. Exum at the two is probably my favorite in that he can really guard 1-3 very well, kinda shoot is and be a good secondary ball handler. Plus he can create and get to the rim - at least he showed that more than EVER right before the injury. But injuries man.... feels like it might never end.

A stretch 4? I like it. But who!? Not easy. I can think of someone who is in your neck of the woods who would be perfect but his contract is the mother of all contracts - Blake. Any chance Detroit goes full rebuild? Favors, Ricky, and a pick for Blake? The salaries line up? Would the Jazz do that? Lots of questions. But it's interesting. It'd be taking a serious shot. And if Detroit wants to bottom out, that might be the way to do it. Again, not sure if the Jazz would be interested. But it's a thought.

I like Crowder more at the 4 than the 3.

Check out the standings... they could be 5th by next weekend. Good thing the schedule finally eased up. I don't think people understand how tough Utah's schedule was through 41.

Last thing - I'm still not sure that DM is the point guard. Everything you said is true.... but remember who the 5 teams are that the Jazz just beat. The Clips win was a good one. But those other 4? Nothing impressive. Last night was impressive though.

[PKIPP]

Stellar post. I'll add a few thoughts.

It feels like your lineup is big on size and short on quickness. Korver just can't guard many if any two's in today's NBA. He's still good positionally... but IDK. If Royce can shoot.... wow. What a player, especially on that contract. Plus, obviously DM loves him. Exum at the two is probably my favorite in that he can really guard 1-3 very well, kinda shoot is and be a good secondary ball handler. Plus he can create and get to the rim - at least he showed that more than EVER right before the injury. But injuries man.... feels like it might never end.

A stretch 4? I like it. But who!? Not easy. I can think of someone who is in your neck of the woods who would be perfect but his contract is the mother of all contracts - Blake. Any chance Detroit goes full rebuild? Favors, Ricky, and a pick for Blake? The salaries line up? Would the Jazz do that? Lots of questions. But it's interesting. It'd be taking a serious shot. And if Detroit wants to bottom out, that might be the way to do it. Again, not sure if the Jazz would be interested. But it's a thought.

I like Crowder more at the 4 than the 3.

Check out the standings... they could be 5th by next weekend. Good thing the schedule finally eased up. I don't think people understand how tough Utah's schedule was through 41.

Last thing - I'm still not sure that DM is the point guard. Everything you said is true.... but remember who the 5 teams are that the Jazz just beat. The Clips win was a good one. But those other 4? Nothing impressive. Last night was impressive though.

Yeah I see what you're saying about opposition level the past 5 games, true outside of the clips, Jazz were decidedly better than the other teams. And to be honest maybe even the clippers are starting to come back to earth as well. It definitely isn't an easy decision to just move on from Ricky even though this stretch has been very good.

As much as I'd hate to see Blake leave after just one season, it might be best. The whole Stan Van gundy era in Detroit was a disaster and they might not recover until they get rid of every last shred of evidence that Stan was ever here. If I had to choose one team for Blake to go to, I couldn't think of a better fit or team I'd like him to go to more than Utah. Besides what he'd be able to offer on court with his play, him and Joe would be talking the other teams ears off- that would be fun to watch in itself!

You're spot on with that rotation not having much quickness outside of Donovan and Dante. It's possible that the Pistons would include one of our young guards to entice Utah front office into taking on the big contract of Blake. Bruce Brown is a very good defender for a rookie, but I'm not sure he'd be much help. Reggie Bullock or Langston Galloway would bring more to the table offensively than Bruce, both can play the SG.

[the27guy]

So here’s the question PKipp,

How much would it take to get Blake?

Do you think the pistons would take favors and rubio (both expiring) straight up? Do you think the jazz would need to add a first? Do you think that would get it done??

[PKIPP]

So here’s the question PKipp,

How much would it take to get Blake?

Do you think the pistons would take favors and rubio (both expiring) straight up? Do you think the jazz would need to add a first? Do you think that would get it done??

That would sound right to me if we are indeed planing to throw in the towel. And since Rubio is expiring the Pistons might just buy him out/waive him anyways which means Ricky could choose his team basically. I'd love to keep him myself if we got him but there's almost no point because we still have Reggie Jackson and ish smith at pg. and Reggie is under contract a few more seasons I believe. Plus Ricky would help us win games and if we trade Blake, it better be to start the tank job lol.

But I could see that as a realistic trade. Blake is great but the contract is so big that we can't expect more than that for him, especially if we're actually looking to move him. The first round pick along with those 2 guys should get it done.

[the27guy]

That would sound right to me if we are indeed planing to throw in the towel. And since Rubio is expiring the Pistons might just buy him out/waive him anyways which means Ricky could choose his team basically. I'd love to keep him myself if we got him but there's almost no point because we still have Reggie Jackson and ish smith at pg. and Reggie is under contract a few more seasons I believe. Plus Ricky would help us win games and if we trade Blake, it better be to start the tank job lol.

But I could see that as a realistic trade. Blake is great but the contract is so big that we can't expect more than that for him, especially if we're actually looking to move him. The first round pick along with those 2 guys should get it done.

From a talent perspective..... Blake makes the Jazz crazy good. Perfect fit.

[BayAreaWarrior]

Gobert has been leading one of the best defenses on the Jazz' winning streak.

Had 18 points, 16 rebounds, 4 blocks in another win. He deserves to be an NBA All Star!

[the27guy]

Gobert has been leading one of the best defenses on the Jazz' winning streak.

Had 18 points, 16 rebounds, 4 blocks in another win. He deserves to be an NBA All Star!

If only I had his logoman auto :)

[Wolves4Life]

Gobert has been leading one of the best defenses on the Jazz' winning streak.

Had 18 points, 16 rebounds, 4 blocks in another win. He deserves to be an NBA All Star!

It might come down to him or KAT for a spot, Don't see both going and since Mitchell probably is, Should be KAT.

[BayAreaWarrior]

It might come down to him or KAT for a spot, Don't see both going and since Mitchell probably is, Should be KAT.

You see Donovan Mitchell getting an All Star invite this year?

[the27guy]

You see Donovan Mitchell getting an All Star invite this year?

Rudy will make it. Most experts have him as the 5th bench guy in.

I’d put him as 80% and Donovan at 15%. Donovan will only get in with a. Few more 30 point games and an injury or two of other players.

[PKIPP]

Rudy is a beast. Clutch block in the final seconds. Great game. Donovan was off but still got to the line to kinda make up for it, and the 11 dimes. That baseball pass into the corner for 3 was tight.

[Wolves4Life]

You see Donovan Mitchell getting an All Star invite this year?

I do. He's arguably been the best Jazz player this year.

KAT should be the 3rd big for the ASG. Obviously Jokic will go before KAT cause he beats up on everyone but KAT head to head and Davis is a PF but true center KAT should be next.

[SHowley2003]

Just got outbid on a Crowder G/U Jazz jersey. It would have been my first Jazz jersey since my purple Malone jersey from middle school....

[the27guy]

Just got outbid on a Crowder G/U Jazz jersey. It would have been my first Jazz jersey since my purple Malone jersey from middle school....

It was me.





Not.






:flex:

[SHowley2003]

It was me.





Not.






:flex:

Haha. I know it wasn’t you. A) you’d be in on Rudy & B) you’re down on my boy! It would have looked good next to my C’s G/U Crowder though.

[the27guy]

Haha. I know it wasn’t you. A) you’d be in on Rudy & B) you’re down on my boy! It would have looked good next to my C’s G/U Crowder though.

I love Crowder man. Not down on him at all. He had a stretch of like 6-8 games where he was down right bad. Then he got in Jokic's grill and was drawing fouls on three pointers and punking guys.... and now I'm in love again.

[SHowley2003]

I love Crowder man. Not down on him at all. He had a stretch of like 6-8 games where he was down right bad. Then he got in Jokic's grill and was drawing fouls on three pointers and punking guys.... and now I'm in love again.

That’s his game. I saw his stat line from the last game was all his field goals from beyond the arc. He really has learned to adapt to the league and has become a true “3&d” guy. It’s funny because in college that wasn’t his game. Working under Brad Stevens was probably the best thing that ever happened to him. Then landing in Utah revitalized his career and will earn him his next contract.

Edit: maybe I should just start a Jae Crowder thread!

[theleica]

It will be interesting to see if the Mike Conley / Ricky Rubio trade happens.

[the27guy]

It will be interesting to see if the Mike Conley / Ricky Rubio trade happens.

It really will.

Look out for Holiday as well. Jrue fits the timeline and the identity and next to Donovan better than Conley. If I had my druthers, I'm in on Jrue. Though, I'm not certain yet that they're ready to go full rebuild. If they are, then our Rubio/Exum/Jirst round pick deal is out there.

[PKIPP]

Gotta revive this thing!

Good win vs Dallas tonight after the 2 OT loss vs OKC last night.

Donovan and Rubio each with 25, jae with 22, ingles 18, Rudy 15 and 12. Taking care of business in less minutes than normal getting rest and a W.

[the27guy]

Gotta revive this thing!

Good win vs Dallas tonight after the 2 OT loss vs OKC last night.

Donovan and Rubio each with 25, jae with 22, ingles 18, Rudy 15 and 12. Taking care of business in less minutes than normal getting rest and a W.

The OKC loss was rough. But the comments after we’re good. The team still believes in each other and as a group. After the next couple games look at those last 15 or so. They should be able to make hay. Home court is still possible.

[PKIPP]

Big time win over the Clips tonight.. Spida and Rudy taking care of business. Neto stepping in with 10 big points. Sucks to see Ricky get hurt again, hopefully he'll be back ASAP.

i loved the block Party tonight. Even Kyle Korver got one!

[the27guy]

A second half of a back to back win against a rested nuggets team might be the best win of the year to date.

Oh, and the jazz didn’t have a point guard.

[Jhedges]

I definitely think it’s our best win yet. They are showing some grit and bounced straight back from the double OT loss with 3 straight wins.

I’m hoping we can start taking care of the ball.

[PKIPP]

A second half of a back to back win against a rested nuggets team might be the best win of the year to date.

Oh, and the jazz didn’t have a point guard.

Man.. It really showed at some points in the first half too. Just how important it is to have Rubio, exum, and/or Neto.. At least one of them needs to get back ASAP!

Thankfully the Jazz did their thing on defense.. :)!:)!

[sigmachi]

A second half of a back to back win against a rested nuggets team might be the best win of the year to date.

Oh, and the jazz didn’t have a point guard.

I really loved seeing Korver look like a youngster again knocking down shot after shot. Ingles did very well handling the ball...obviously out of his comfort zone but he showed his "jack of all trades"ness. Favors with another solid effort. Thebo had a couple minute stretch where he contributed off the bench. Rudy changes the game at the rim...Jokic didn't have a bad game but you could tell that Rudy "altered" his shot selection. Donovan really took over in the 4th, he's not the best ball handler and he still is a little reckless sometimes but he really has shown a lot of growth and maturity from the beginning of the season.

[PKIPP]

Donovan Mitchell tho.. 46 piece ripped the bucks heart out

[Jhedges]

D O N O V A N M I T C H E L L!!!!

What a roller coaster of a game. MVP has to be Favors, he changed the game in the 2nd and 4th quarters.

[oshmeehan]

Mitchell and Favors were good, especially in the 4th. Bucks coming in late after playing in LA the night before and missing their starting backcourt and the main PG amd SG backups.

[sigmachi]

Mitchell and Favors were good, especially in the 4th. Bucks coming in late after playing in LA the night before and missing their starting backcourt and the main PG amd SG backups.

You want to talk about missing a PG or 3?

[the27guy]

Good to see our guys really bringing it after the All star break. Win in Denver. Tonight with Giannis going all Giannis. Even the loss against OKC, they played well. Four wins in a row.

Ps - Rudy’s worst game of the last three season tonight. Totally serious.

[oshmeehan]

Good to see our guys really bringing it after the All star break. Win in Denver. Tonight with Giannis going all Giannis. Even the loss against OKC, they played well. Four wins in a row.

Ps - Rudy’s worst game of the last three season tonight. Totally serious.

For whatever reason Giannis has owned Gobert recently and has made him look small and weak.

[the27guy]

For whatever reason Giannis has owned Gobert recently and has made him look small and weak.

Giannis is unreal. But he gets away with some stuff that others don’t. The number of pushoffs that he got away with tonight alone is dispiriting. When a defensive player is in proper position and a guy that big goes into the defender with that momentum and actually moves the defender backwards, you have little recourse but to fall and sell the foul. At least three times tonight Giannis did that to Rudy. Rudy stood strong once - no call. Tried to sell it twice - no call. By definition, that’s an offensive foul.

If the officials allow him to do that, he’s unguardable. Literally.

Add to that the 5-out lineup that the bucks throw out there and Gobert really struggles. Probably to no team in the league like the bucks.

Lopez is awesome. Truly.

[Ross]

Giannis is unreal. But he gets away with some stuff that others don’t. The number of pushoffs that he got away with tonight alone is dispiriting. When a defensive player is in proper position and a guy that big goes into the defender with that momentum and actually moves the defender backwards, you have little recourse but to fall and sell the foul. At least three times tonight Giannis did that to Rudy. Rudy stood strong once - no call. Tried to sell it twice - no call. By definition, that’s an offensive foul.



If the officials allow him to do that, he’s unguardable. Literally.



Add to that the 5-out lineup that the bucks throw out there and Gobert really struggles. Probably to no team in the league like the bucks.



Lopez is awesome. Truly.



Lopez is no joke blocking shots, especially in the first quarter! Big win for the jazz- heating up at the right time!! Let’s go!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[oshmeehan]

Giannis is unreal. But he gets away with some stuff that others don’t. The number of pushoffs that he got away with tonight alone is dispiriting. When a defensive player is in proper position and a guy that big goes into the defender with that momentum and actually moves the defender backwards, you have little recourse but to fall and sell the foul. At least three times tonight Giannis did that to Rudy. Rudy stood strong once - no call. Tried to sell it twice - no call. By definition, that’s an offensive foul.

If the officials allow him to do that, he’s unguardable. Literally.

Add to that the 5-out lineup that the bucks throw out there and Gobert really struggles. Probably to no team in the league like the bucks.

Lopez is awesome. Truly.

I do agree on the pushoffs, and honestly this was the first time I have seen Giannis do that in a game, at least to that extent. Even the Bucks announcers pointed it out.

[the27guy]

It's been a while since we've bumped this one. A few random thoughts.

The way the last few days of the regular season went really really sucked for the Jazz

Jazz fans had a few goals in the past week of the season. Home Court Advantage was a hope. We wanted to see the team playing well going into the playoffs.... but above all else..... we wanted to see the Rockets in the three spot. It looked incredibly likely. All of the models had the Rockets landing in the 3 spot. The Jazz looked destined to play the Nurkic-less Blazers..... Nope.

Not only did Denver sit their starters down the stretch of a game to the Blazers to give the Blazers an opportunity to move into the 3 spot (and allowing the Rockets to slide to 4)..... each of the following things HAD to happen. If any of these games went the other direction, the Jazz would have faced Portland in round one.

OKC had to beat Houston in Houston's last game. Houston was up big with a minute to go. But Harden missed a free throw and Paul George hit a clutch 3 with 1.8 to win.

That same night, the Blazers were down big in the final minutes to the Lakers, but in the final 30 seconds had the last two fieldgoals, including a 3 at the end of regulation to win.

Both games took buzzer beaters and crazy comebacks.... both went against the Jazz.

Then on the final night, the Blazers were down at halftime by 25 to the Kings..... if the Kings won, the Jazz would face the Blazers. The Blazers rallied behind Anfernee Simons and pulled out the amazing come from behind victory. Incredible. Again, going the opposite way Jazz fans wanted.

But not all was lost. Denver was playing the TWolves and was down 11 with three minutes to play. As long as Minny could protect an 11 point lead with three minutes to go.... the Jazz would still face the Blazers.....

The Nuggets went on a 15-0 run and the rest is history. If you take the odds of any of those four games going against the Jazz at their least likely, in compounds to a 1:500,000 chance that the Jazz would play the Rockets.....


And yet, here we are.


The Rockets are the single worst matchup for the Jazz in the league

It's not particularly close. Of the 9 worst offensive outtings of the year for the Jazz, three of them are against Houston. Their switching defense just kills the Jazz like nobody else.

Donovan looked like a bad basketball player in game one

The spacing is bad. And even when the Jazz put in all their shooters, they still can't get open. But Donovan has to play better.

The one bright spot is Gobert got a lot of easy looks and played good defense. I know some people will disagree but I think the bigger issue is figuring the scheme out. Houston may be entirely unguardable. The Jazz have been so locked in defensiely and didn't have any kind of answers against the 4 other guys on the court.

I believe each of the last two seasons, we lost game one and went on to win the first round series, so hopefully that's what's happening here..... but man. Game one was BAD.

[Ross]

It's been a while since we've bumped this one. A few random thoughts.



The way the last few days of the regular season went really really sucked for the Jazz



Jazz fans had a few goals in the past week of the season. Home Court Advantage was a hope. We wanted to see the team playing well going into the playoffs.... but above all else..... we wanted to see the Rockets in the three spot. It looked incredibly likely. All of the models had the Rockets landing in the 3 spot. The Jazz looked destined to play the Nurkic-less Blazers..... Nope.



Not only did Denver sit their starters down the stretch of a game to the Blazers to give the Blazers an opportunity to move into the 3 spot (and allowing the Rockets to slide to 4)..... each of the following things HAD to happen. If any of these games went the other direction, the Jazz would have faced Portland in round one.



OKC had to beat Houston in Houston's last game. Houston was up big with a minute to go. But Harden missed a free throw and Paul George hit a clutch 3 with 1.8 to win.



That same night, the Blazers were down big in the final minutes to the Lakers, but in the final 30 seconds had the last two fieldgoals, including a 3 at the end of regulation to win.



Both games took buzzer beaters and crazy comebacks.... both went against the Jazz.



Then on the final night, the Blazers were down at halftime by 25 to the Kings..... if the Kings won, the Jazz would face the Blazers. The Blazers rallied behind Anfernee Simons and pulled out the amazing come from behind victory. Incredible. Again, going the opposite way Jazz fans wanted.



But not all was lost. Denver was playing the TWolves and was down 11 with three minutes to play. As long as Minny could protect an 11 point lead with three minutes to go.... the Jazz would still face the Blazers.....



The Nuggets went on a 15-0 run and the rest is history. If you take the odds of any of those four games going against the Jazz at their least likely, in compounds to a 1:500,000 chance that the Jazz would play the Rockets.....





And yet, here we are.





The Rockets are the single worst matchup for the Jazz in the league



It's not particularly close. Of the 9 worst offensive outtings of the year for the Jazz, three of them are against Houston. Their switching defense just kills the Jazz like nobody else.



Donovan looked like a bad basketball player in game one



The spacing is bad. And even when the Jazz put in all their shooters, they still can't get open. But Donovan has to play better.



The one bright spot is Gobert got a lot of easy looks and played good defense. I know some people will disagree but I think the bigger issue is figuring the scheme out. Houston may be entirely unguardable. The Jazz have been so locked in defensiely and didn't have any kind of answers against the 4 other guys on the court.



I believe each of the last two seasons, we lost game one and went on to win the first round series, so hopefully that's what's happening here..... but man. Game one was BAD.



It will be okay. Have faith


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[the27guy]

It will be okay. Have faith


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Maybe I'm wrong.... but I literally would have taken the Jazz against any other team in the west.... including the Thunder who swept the Jazz in the regular season. I really would have. But Houston? I think we lose in 4-5..... Hope I'm wrong.

[Ross]

Maybe I'm wrong.... but I literally would have taken the Jazz against any other team in the west.... including the Thunder who swept the Jazz in the regular season. I really would have. But Houston? I think we lose in 4-5..... Hope I'm wrong.



Oh don’t get me wrong

Denver
Portland
SA
Clippers

Oh the other half

As it is:

Beat Houston

Then warriors

Then whoever comes from that other side. That said this series win lose or draw will set the jazz up for the future. They need another play maker and Rubio ain’t it. They will learn here regardless but let’s get a good game two and go from there.

#IAMAHomer


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[jstasyk1121]

i dont think anyone on Utah played good defense...Gobert included...there seemed to be an open layup or alley oop every 2 mins in that game...sure not all RG fault...but it seems that its more accurate to say no one played good defense

[drobfan8]

Tough match up and it'll be a shame to see either team go home. That's the West for ya.

Next game will be much closer I'd say

[Jpayne7787]

Get the brooms ready on this one

[SHowley2003]

Maybe I'm wrong.... but I literally would have taken the Jazz against any other team in the west.... including the Thunder who swept the Jazz in the regular season. I really would have. But Houston? I think we lose in 4-5..... Hope I'm wrong.

It's a tough match-up for sure. I see the Rockets winning in 5, maybe 6. Some may know I've been in on the Jazz since last year and they have been my second team. I hate this match-up for them.

Mitchell needs to be better. He needs to be more efficient, hit his FTs and keep the ball moving. Rubio, Gobert and Mitchell need to play their game. Then it will come down to Ingles, Crowder and Korver hitting their open shots. Ingles shot 25% from the field (1/4), Crowder 11% (1/9) and Korver didn't get up a shot in over 10 minutes of time.

[Rip67vdub]

Helluva win. Mitchell showed up big time down the stretch. Congrats Jazz fans.

[PKIPP]

Tough way for the season to end. All of us who watched this team all year know they're a lot better than the way they played tonight. But, that's the way it goes sometimes.

Jazz will be back and be better next season. Donovan and the crew are going to be hungry to put this series behind them.

Despite the crummy ending, I really enjoyed watching all season, and looking forward to see what kind of moves they've got in store for this offseason.

[daviswr7]

Tough matchup for us. As a die hard...how do we add “that piece”?

Who knows.

Been watching for multiple decades now and the frustration is real

[the27guy]

Tough way for the season to end. All of us who watched this team all year know they're a lot better than the way they played tonight. But, that's the way it goes sometimes.

Jazz will be back and be better next season. Donovan and the crew are going to be hungry to put this series behind them.

Despite the crummy ending, I really enjoyed watching all season, and looking forward to see what kind of moves they've got in store for this offseason.


No shame in losing to one of the best teams in the league. Houston does a good job of making most teams look bad. I was impressed that we made them look as bad as they did.

Proud of how they played till the end. They could have rolled over after game 3 or even game 2.

[the27guy]

Tough matchup for us. As a die hard...how do we add “that piece”?

Who knows.

Been watching for multiple decades now and the frustration is real

The worst matchup for us in the league.

Internal development.

I’d say watch for Brogdon. Really feels like he’s fit next to Donovan.

[PKIPP]

No shame in losing to one of the best teams in the league. Houston does a good job of making most teams look bad. I was impressed that we made them look as bad as they did.

Proud of how they played till the end. They could have rolled over after game 3 or even game 2.

Absolutely man. They gave it their best. I'm just salty the season is over. I can't wait for next season already.

Houston is better than I thought they were defensively. I watched them a good amount this year also but 95% of the time used to seeing them just out score everybody and James put up 40+. When Jazz took Hsrden outta his rhythm CP3 stepped up and so did Houston's defense. All I can say is, I really hope they play this defense against Golden State next round.

[Ross]

Donovan has to get more consistent imo. Tonight was yet another game where he’s the star and has to show up. If you want the shoe deal you have to show up, plain and simple. I’m his biggest fanboy in the world, but game 3 and game 5 were plagued by his inability to make shots for long stretches. Can’t go 4/22 and win... Even with that they still had a chance late which is incredible.


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