Utah Jazz: Five things to be thankful about this Thanksgiving

It can only get better from here

This might seem like a bit of a cop-out, but it’s the truth nonetheless. Although the Jazz were playing far from perfect ball even when Rudy Gobert and Joe Johnson were both in action, the fact of the matter is that part of Utah’s recent struggles have to do largely with the fact that once again they are far from 100 percent healthy. With both the Stifle Tower and Iso Joe out of commission, Utah has struggled on both ends of the court.

Not only that, but it’s quite clear that the team’s chemistry is far from where it can potentially be. Is it possible that this team will simply never quite jive? Sure it is. But it’s also hard to see it going anywhere but up. Quin Snyder will figure out his rotations. The team’s newcomers will figure out how to assimilate and little by little this team should improve in terms of cohesion.

And once both Rudy Gobert and Joe Johnson are back in action, it’s undeniable that the team will be better as a result. The All-NBA center and grizzled veteran were key pieces in Utah’s success night in and night out last year and their return will certainly create a positive spark.

Not only that, but looking beyond this season, the future is undoubtedly bright for the Jazz. Dante Exum looked phenomenal during summer league and preseason and though his injury-riddled NBA career has been discouraging, there’s no denying that he could still blossom into a formidable player. Additionally, this season was always bound to be an evaluation year, not a season of overwhelming success. However, along those lines, Utah is poised to have ample financial flexibility over the next two offseasons and could quickly transform the team into a powerhouse.

Donovan Mitchell will be a bright part of Utah’s future and as the team takes advantage of cap space and strategically crafted contracts with team options, the Jazz will use this year to evaluate what their next moves should be and could be an overwhelming player in the trade and free agency market the next two summers.

Next: Utah Jazz: Now is the time for injury-riddled team to play catch-up

Thus, regardless of how this season pans out, Jazz fans shouldn’t get too antsy. There’s plenty to be thankful for regarding promising performances this year and the potential of a stellar team in the not so distant future.

Don’t lose hope, Jazz fans, and be sure to cling to these reasons to be grateful about your team at this wonderful time of year.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The J-Notes!