If there's one thing we've learned from this stretch of games missed by Favors, it's that Trey Lyles is no where close to being able to fill those shoes. Favors is just a flat out better player. Whether or not he ever gets back to being 100% healthy seems to be a big question mark, but replacing him with an inferior player because of better fit is and always has been fool's gold.
Why would anyone max Hood?
Burks received a 4/40 deal. That is the type of deal Hood will get (obviously it will be more money, because the cap is a lot higher, but Hood will get that "above average starter" money...because he is a very average starter).
It's embarrassing how underrated Favors has become.
Agreed. Favors was a near allstar before his injury. Neither Hood or Lyles comes close right now, especially defensively where they both suck a lot. But that's "fans" for you. You get hurt 2 months and they already want to trade you to China.
Now the best move would be waiting to see if Favors can play 100 % healthy again for at least half a season. If so, he's basically irreplaceable.
Jazz is a contender only if Favors is healthy. The killer defense comes from having both Gobert and Favors inside, with Hayward / Hill outside. If you remove one, Jazz is still a very good team but probably not a contender anymore.