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Utah Jazz ’17-18 review: Ekpe Udoh will block your shot

By Zachary Padmore

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - DECEMBER 23: Ekpe Udoh #33 of the Utah Jazz attempts a free throw in the second half of the 103-89 win by the Oklahoma City Thunder at Vivint Smart Home Arena on December 23, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - DECEMBER 23: Ekpe Udoh #33 of the Utah Jazz attempts a free throw in the second half of the 103-89 win by the Oklahoma City Thunder at Vivint Smart Home Arena on December 23, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images) /
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In his first season with the Utah Jazz, Ekpe Udoh served as a reliable backup center that blocked a lot of shots and brought loads of energy off the bench.

My J-Notes colleague Jared Woodcox reviewed Raul Neto’s season yesterday on Raul’s birthday. So, it felt fitting to review Ekpe Udoh‘s season with the Jazz on his birthday. Happy Birthday, Ekpe!

Fans were unsure about what the 31-year-old center would bring to the Jazz after playing multiple seasons overseas and being out of the NBA completely. His first stint in the league wasn’t great, but he fought hard to make it back and played very well when called upon this season for the Jazz.

When Rudy Gobert was out with knee injuries, Ekpe stayed ready and really produced when given the opportunity. On the season, Udoh posted averages of 2.6 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.2 blocks. He played in 63 games, making three starts.

Those numbers don’t jump out at you. However, I believe Udoh not only showed all of Utah what he is capable of, but also showed the entire Association that he’s an NBA player and would be worthy of a spot on just about any roster.

Udoh had a lot of good moments throughout the year. Two games in particular stand out to me: the Jazz defeating the Wizards in Washington on January 10, and Utah’s loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on December 16. Udoh started both games, and showed how valuable he is.

Against Washington, Udoh finished with 16 points on 7-of-10 shooting, nine rebounds, four steals, two blocks and two assists.

Against Cleveland, Udoh had nine points, seven rebounds, six blocks, three steals and three assists.

The Jazz were without both Gobert and Derrick Favors in those games, so Udoh stepped up and gave the team some big time minutes.

Before the season, Udoh claimed he is one of the best defenders in the world and, clearly, his rim protection is impressive. But while he’s great on defense, he knows he needs to improve offensively.

Udoh talked about how he plans to improve on that end of the court this summer during his exit interview —

"“Score, do something offensively. Defensively, I won’t back down from my statements earlier in the season as being one of the best defenders in the world. But, you know, being able to score. I think that’s the key. Work on my short-roll game and expand my range.”"

Next: The four toughest decisions facing the Utah Jazz this summer

The Jazz had to get tricky with free agent signings after losing Gordon Hayward. Nevertheless, Jazz GM Dennis Lindsey pulled it off. You have to give him credit for bringing in two former Baylor Bears in Udoh and Royce O’Neale. Both guys really gave the Jazz good minutes this season after being under-the-radar free agent signings.

Udoh’s future in Utah is currently unknown. What we do know, though, is that he was great for the Jazz this season as a third-string center. He didn’t complain about playing time, didn’t complain about his role, he stayed ready and made an impact on the court and in the locker room.

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