9) Carlos Arroyo, PG — Puerto Rico
After bringing up the rear as a third-stringer the previous year, Carlos Arroyo was given a daunting task as the 2003-04 season tipped off. Specifically, he was the guy asked to replace the retiring John Stockton.
We’re only talking the greatest pure point guard in the history of the game; no pressure, right?
Nevertheless, Arroyo acquitted himself rather well as a key cog to one of the most entertaining teams the Jazz ever fielded. In 71 starts that season, he averaged nearly 13 points and five assists per game. In doing so, he helped a squad that was pegged to win eight games finish 42-40.
Of course, his best moment while a member of the Jazz actually came internationally when he and Ortiz led Puerto Rico to a blow-out win over Team USA ahead of the 2004 Olympic Games.
Arroyo ultimately fell out of favor in Utah. Still, he carved out a decade-long career for himself in the Association.
Jazz stats: 145 GP (87 starts), 8.7 PPG, 3.9 APG, 1.8 RPG, .435 FG%, .338 3P%
Next: No. 8