Stifle Tower
Punch Bowl Re-Filler
Thanks. You too.
As much as I like DMC, I think Hood will be a better SF for us. It really comes down to finding that core 8 or 9, fitting them in comfortably under the luxury tax limit and then backfilling with bargain vets and young players.
SF/SG (3): I really like Hayward, Burks and Hood as the wings. Gordon and Rodney can play the 2 or 3. And despite Alec's struggles, the Jazz would be well-served to continue developing him at the spot in case of emergency/injuries.
PG (2); Burke may prove me wrong after all. I've been down on him, but he's having a stellar preseason. Keep it up and I may have to start an official "I was wrong / my deepest apologies to Trey" thread. Exum is still a big unknown. And Neto may yet be one of those cheap rookies we can bring over in 1-2 more years.
PF/C (3): Favors and Gobert look like keepers. Can Kanter be the third big? IS he worth a huge contract? That's TBD, IMO. If not, the Jazz turn to guys like Booker and specialists like Novak to man the position while targeting an eventual replacement via the draft or in a trade.
I've probably had too much Kool-aid (or Diet Coke), but I'm pretty excited about this team. I think Utah needs to do 3 things:
1. Keep Alec or replace him with an equally talented player. If he wants too much (or gets a huge offer sheet), Hayward can always move back to SG, with Hood starting at SF. Then find a third wing for the rotation. Exum is also a consideration (MAYBE) to play some minutes at the 2.
2. Find a stud PF. Could be Kanter, could be someone TBD. Also, in the next 2 years, I think Gobert will force the Jazz to find 30 mins/per for him. That means Favors has to develop some range so he can play around 15 minutes of his time at PF.
3. Getter better at PG. Would LOVE to see Burke and Exum splitting time at PG and both killing it in their own ways. But neither is a sure bet. Exum was, IMO, the highest risk/reward player in the draft. And Burke has struggled with shooting and defense.
Maybe I am too optimistic. But the Jazz may very well have their core already in place (or be 1 player away). Lindsey has been phenomenal in the last 2 drafts. I can't wait to see who the Jazz add next season - or if they make a trade. Might start cashing in some of those picks.
