Utah Jazz: Top 5 Ante Tomic Replacements
By Ryan Aston
Jan 24, 2015; Austin, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns forward Myles Turner (52) rebounds against Kansas Jayhawks forwards Jamari Traylor (left) and Cliff Alexander (2) during the first half at the Frank Erwin Special Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-USA TODAY Sports
For several years now, Utah Jazz fans have anxiously awaited the arrival of fabled European star Ante Tomic. The seven-foot-two Croatian was drafted by the Jazz with the 44th pick of the 2008 NBA Draft. Since then, Tomic has evolved into a perennial MVP candidate in the Euroleague.
Earlier this year, it appeared as though the talented center would finally bring his game stateside. Then, in short order, reports of his decision to re-sign with FC Barcelona Basquet hit the press wires.
So, with the dream of Tomic seemingly laid to rest, the team finds themselves in need of a fourth big to complement the current frountcourt cadre of Derrick Favors, Rudy Gobert and Trevor Booker (whom most expect the Jazz will retain for next season).
While the club will have the funds necessary to make a larger move during free agency, most feel that Jazz GM Dennis Lindsey and his brain trust will ultimately target one of the secondary talents on the market for a back-up role.
Another option for Utah is the NBA Draft, where the team will likely own a late-lottery pick.
Failing a run at one of the big names available this summer, here are my top five options the team could explore to fill the void left by Tomic.
Next: Myles Turner, Texas