Derrick Favors
In the off-season, Favors signed an extension to stay with the Jazz, to much of Jazz nation’s delight. So far this season, Favors is proving to everyone that the Jazz made the right decision. Also, the Jazz are showing everyone that they got a bargain.
Favors is unique in the fact that he is freakishly athletic at 6′ 10″ and 260+ pounds. GM’s around the league see that and love what Favors can do and what Favors can become. If the Jazz didn’t sign Favors to an extension prior to the season, he would have became a restricted free agent after this season. If that would have happened, Favors would most likely have signed an offer sheet worth a max contract. The Jazz could have, and most likely would have, matched that deal, but it would have been harder to keep the young core in tact.
Favors is becoming a double-double guy that the Jazz were hoping he could become. He has a consistency thing to work on, like I think I’ve said on almost every player on the roster, but he is getting there. So far averaging 13.3 points and 9.2 rebounds per game, while shooting 51.9% from the field. However, since being moved to the center position, Favors shooting percentages have gone up to 55.9% from the field.
Favors can be one of the best big men in the game. He works hard and shows improvements every time he steps on the court. If he does happen to become one of the best big men in the league, I for one am happy to see that happen in Utah.
Grade : B +