Early Top 5 Potential Utah Jazz Free Agent Targets: Centers
By Ryan Aston
Jan 26, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel (4) battles for a rebound with New Orleans Pelicans center Omer Asik (3) and forward Anthony Davis (23) during the second quarter at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
2. Omer Asik, New Orleans Pelicans
Imagine, if you will, a world where Gobert and Favors are terrorizing the opposing frontcourt. No one is able to score on them. One of the two picks up their second foul and is forced out of the game. Most team’s would breath a sigh of relief, but with the Jazz? Not so. Omer Asik is entering the game and Utah’s elite defensive front won’t miss a beat.
It’s an enticing thought for anyone that’s a fan of punishing defenses or having a roster laden with intelligent, lengthy defenders. As much as Anthony Davis‘ ascension to MVP-caliber player has been responsible for bringing the Pels more wins this season, Asik’s defense and rebounding have also played a large role.
He once balked at the notion of playing second fiddle to Dwight Howard in Houston, but could count on his fair share of minutes with a Utah team that has placed increased emphasis on defending.
Moreover, his numbers on the pick-and-roll offensively are better than his reputation as a non-scorer would suggest.
A big man rotation featuring Gobert, Favors and Asik would be one of the most physically imposing units in recent history.
Next: 1. Greg Monroe, Detroit Pistons