Hey everyone I just started an NBA blog with my friends and I am covering the northwest. I feel that the best way to learn about a team is to talk to its fans (other than watching it). So I have some questions for you guys and if you would answer them it would help out a lot.
Do you think the Jazz are a playoff team this year?
Do you think the Jazz will make a trade?
If they make a trade what do you think they should target? Who should they deal?
Who has been the biggest pleasant surprise on your team and who has been worse than expected?
Thanks a ton in advance.
Question 1
We have the 7th easiest schedule in the NBA from here on out with plenty of home games but I think there are 2 cases-
Case 1-
We'll be out of a playoff spot if the starting lineup doesn't change. We're starting 3 below average defenders and 1 incapable defender in Tinsley. If these 4 guys get significant minutes, the Jazz at bottom 5 defensive team.
Case 2-
Hayward and Favors are put into the starting lineup with Foye and Milsap out. All of a sudden we're a top 15 defensive team and we get into the playoffs at the 6-8 spot easy.
Question 2
No. I think the Jazz have been actively shopping Milsap AND Jefferson but its a catch 22. On one hand, other teams know we want them gone so they offer less. On the other, the Jazz don't want a bad deal so they don't take the bad offers.
Question 3
Mo's injury is likely season ending. We trade for a PG if we do make one. Al and/or Milsap should be dealt. Due to Milsap's recent comments, it will be him.
Question 4
Biggest surprise? There's many.
1- I'm surprised at how much of a negative effect Foye has on the game. I wouldn't be surprised if it's historically bad.
2- Hayward, the elite defender. I'm amazed how Hayward is usually the go-to defender on this team and he always produces. He can guard the 1,2 or 3 and put up a hell of a fight against CP3 who is a dwarf compared to Hayward. Also, he's adding moves to his game. Floaters, hooks, post ups...it's coming along nicely.
3- Milsap, the terrible. Milsap has been unpleasant this season. He went from being the best player on this team to somewhere down below. His attitude is just terrible, he's got no offensive game anymore, his jumper looks flat. I really think he'll be making a squib wage next year and he made a huge mistake on the contract extension. I'm glad Ty is putting him on the bench in the 4th quarter.