Optimism around Al Jefferson
- Thread starter The Midnight
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LogGrad98
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Hell, even if he settles in at an even 2 assists per game. 20/10/2 with a couple blocked shots and a steal thrown in. Now that's a solid player. Kind of like some predictions some people had about him before the season started.
orangello
Well-Known Member
The optimism that I have around Jefferson is due to the high tradability that he has right now. I agree that he is playing much better than I thought that he would but I still would like to see more time for the young players. My hope is that Jefferson could be traded for cap flexibility and some future draft picks.
Gyp Rosetti
Banned
Except he's less than that in every category, most notably at just 8.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game.
You will notice I referenced last night.
The thing is he is not at 20 PPG - Not at 10 RPG - Won't get to 2 Assists per game - and is not averaging a couple of blocks / steals.
I feel we know what we have in Jefferson and even though I'm not the biggest fan I do see the value right now. With that being said, hopefully Favors and Kanter develop enough to where we can get some Value in a trade. Jefferson has this year and 1 more year on this contract. If we get 'lucky' and get our pick and Golden States (I do want us to make the playoffs though so I know this cannot happen if we do) and draft well (Trade both picks to move up for 1 player would be my option), Jefferson may become a valuable trading chip this up coming off season since his big salary comes off the books.
Gyp Rosetti
Banned
True I guess. But within a 1.5 average, there are always going to be some 4 and 5 assist nights so I'm not impressed just yet. Not saying you were or that your statements didn't hold weight by the way. I'm just not holding my breath. He's been this way for years. I suppose last March and April do leave me to hold out some hope though.
Grandpa Jazz
Active Member
Al is a potential all-star this year and my experience is that you just don't get better by trading those all-star caliber players. Well, unless his last name is Anthony.
D
Deleted member 848
Guest
Me and Brown Notes were probably two of Al's biggest supporters of the off-season. Its is much too early to say anything as of yet, but I will be so happy when I get to tell all of the pessimists to eat some serious crow. Im hoping he can average at least two assists, and score at a high %; Im not too worried about averaging a 20/10. As long as his defense improves, his assists improve, and his blocks stay the same, Ill be a very happy Jazzfan.
I am not implying Al is there at that level. But a big that is 20/10/3.5 is worth alot more than a 20/10 guy. That is my point. I would love to see Al become that but you are correct in that he is not.
Last night looked like a completely different Al though. He was definitely looking pass first on many plays, almost to a fault. I haven't seen that in any other game and am hoping this visible mental focus is a trend that sticks.
Maybe it's a sign of better team chemistry?? One may tend to make a pass to a teammate one likes and enjoys playing bb with, I'd think.