Optimism around Al Jefferson

[Deleted member 848]

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.

 

[Stoked]

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.

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.

 

[franklin]

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.

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.

 

[Dr. Jones]

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.

 

[Gyp Rosetti]

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.

I like where your head's at kid.

 

[zbone]

I noticed AL is in much much better shape now. His lift on his shots is much higher than last season. Especially it's noticeable in 2nd half.

 

[footawn]

i own a Jefferson jersey. it's the only basketball jersey i own.

 

[Stoked]

i own a Jefferson jersey. it's the only basketball jersey i own.

Only one I own is a Hayward jersey. I plan on buying either a Burks, Kanter or Favors on this year.

 

[Ellipse]

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.

When you know you are the focus of the offense and will get plenty of touches, you can be generous and pass a few to others. I think Jefferson felt uncomfortable in his position last year with Deron running the team -- he didn't know what he was supposed to do and he was afraid of recieving a "Hayward Assault" from Deron if he screwed up, so he defaulted to doing what he knew how to do ... he shot the damn ball when it was thrown to him.

Jefferson looked far more comfortable with his teammates the last few games.

 

[Jazz Spazz]

I heart Al's play lately.
He was unstoppable vs. Cleveland.
Let's see if he can make good decisions vs a much better Gasol/Bynum tandem.

 

[NUMBERICA]

He's going to go 13/17 every night with 10+ rebounds and 3 assists from here on out. We're in the clear! Let's please ignore that just in the previous game (and 7 years leading up to this) he spent most of his time on the block bulling into triple teams and missing most of those shots.

But yeah, he played the best I have ever seen him play last night.

 

[Scorpjazz]

Im sorry, but I dont even understand how people can still say we need to trade him (actually, I never understood it). Stupid is as stupid does I suppose.

 

[billyshelby]

Al drilling Millsap with that top of the key pass last night was a beautiful thing. He wasn't even doubled as I recall. Not to mention, but he was also perfectly comfortable with the strategy to abuse Jamison with Sap and not at all trying to force looks for himself. I'd say Al has bought all the way in with what we're doing.

 

[NUMBERICA]

Stupid is as stupid does I suppose.

When in Rome.

 

[BabyPeterzz]

I heart Al's play lately.
He was unstoppable vs. Cleveland.
Let's see if he can make good decisions vs a much better Gasol/Bynum tandem.

This will be key tonight. Al witnessed very recently what playing selfishly gets you against the Lakers. Let's see if he's able to think on his feet, pass out of the double team, and get the team some good shots. Cause we'll need every good look we can get tonight.

 

[Thee Jazz Fan]

If Big Al continues to pass and assist the way he did last night and average 3 a night I think his value doubles. A 20/10 guys is hard to find. A 20/10 guy that can get 3-4 assists a game is even harder to find.

If he could look like he did last night, he would definitely be in the Jazz longterm plans, but you are probably right, sell high.