Hit it Big in Free Agency
The Jazz have been quiet during the offseason in recent years, foregoing short-term improvements in order to build up their young core for the long haul. For the most part, this strategy seems to be paying off, but it’s hard to imagine the Jazz finally taking that next step forward without making a splash this upcoming free agency period.
It’s no secret that the Jazz were open to making moves during the season, with Lindsey saying that Utah nearly completed major trades prior to this year’s deadline and further adding that the Jazz passed on a substantial offer for Trey Lyles. As the team approaches the offseason, they should maintain the same willingness to add veteran talent.
This site has looked at numerous free agent targets at every position, however there are three in particular that most excite me (while still being somewhat realistic): Mike Conley, Kent Bazemore and Ian Mahinmi.
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While the chances of landing all three of these players would probably be lower than the championship odds Vegas assigned to the Jazz, the mere thought of adding that kind of talent is exhilarating.
Conley has long been considered one of the most underrated players in the league. Adding a point guard with his talent onto a squad that has been so severely lacking at that position would be incredible. A solid player such as Bazemore would help shore up the small forward position that, beyond Gordon Hayward, is rather weak.
Meanwhile, Mahinmi quietly had a highly impactful season in his first year as a consistent starter for the Indiana Pacers. He likely deserved more than the three votes he received for the Most Improved Player Award. While not a prolific scorer, his powerhouse defense, ability to run the floor and willingness to come off the bench would provide the Jazz with much-needed relief for Rudy Gobert (not to mention both are from France).
If the Jazz hope to make strides towards qualifying for the postseason, they’ll need to look to fill glaring holes in their roster with experienced and battle-hardened veterans. The most crucial include the starting point guard and back-up small forward and center spots.
Adding and developing more young talent no longer seems like the right formula for a Jazz team that has already invested so much time into their existing core.
Next: Trade Away Unnecessary Pieces For Value