Counting down the Top 5 (ish) power forwards in Utah Jazz history
By Ryan Aston
3) Paul Millsap
Given the way his career has skyrocketed since his departure, it’s hard not think about Paul Millsap and wonder what might have been. After joining the Atlanta Hawks, Millsap played in four-straight All-Star Games and cemented himself as one of the Association’s more versatile frontcourt players.
If Carlos Boozer hadn’t been on the team or if the Jazz had been more proactive in helping him expand his shooting range, he may have been able to achieve similar status with the Jazz. Regardless, Millsap was a fan favorite during his Jazz days thanks to his blue-collar style, a knack for clearing the glass and some hard-nosed defense.
While he never reached his full potential in Utah, he still gave the club a strong seven years. In his final season with the team — which had actually been a step back from the previous campaign — Millsap was one of just five players league-wide to average at least 14 points, seven rebounds, 2.5 assists, a block and a steal.
For the record, the others were Kevin Durant, Marc Gasol, Josh Smith (when he was good) and Al Horford. That’s elite company.
Undoubtedly, Millsap’s best game with the Jazz was 2010’s “Miracle in Miami” when he led the team to an unlikely overtime win over LeBron James and the Miami Heat. ‘Sap scored 46 points in the game and hit timely shots to secure the 116-114 victory, one of the more memorable performances in team history.
Utah Jazz Stats: 540 GP, 12.4 PTS, 7.0 REB, 1.1 STL
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