After missing the majority of the season with injury, Dante Exum returned to Utah’s rotation in March.
Despite the ups and downs of his return, Exum showed plenty of signs for Jazz fans to be optimistic. Heading into the playoffs, many considered Exum to be a much-needed X-factor off of Utah’s bench.
After a 10 point performance of 4-of-6 shooting in Game 1, Exum failed to score more than four points in a single game the rest of the series. The moment appeared too big for the former 5th overall pick.
There is no questioning Exum’s quickness and ability to get to the rim. Combining those skills with his length can create a number of matchup advantages in Exum’s favor. He just never seemed to be able to get into the flow of the game throughout the series.
Rubio’s Game 6 injury provided Exum with a golden opportunity to take the reins with an extended role. After an early turnover, Coach Snyder elected to roll with Burks over Exum.
The Jazz are hoping that Exum can develop into a perfect backcourt partner for Mitchell for years to come. If the first round is any indication, Exum still has a long way to go.
It’ll be interesting to see how much trust Snyder puts in him going forward and what Utah’s front office decides to do with Exum in the offseason. Regardless of his future role with the team, the Jazz simply need more production out of their six-foot-six guard.