Based on the development track record of the Utah Jazz, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the organization produce a Most Improved Player award winner in 2018-19.
Although the Utah Jazz still have a few days remaining to decide on the contracts of Jonas Jerebko and Ekpe Udoh, it’s looking more and more like Dennis Lindsey and Co. will be bringing back a nearly identical roster to last season. They’ve already re-signed Derrick Favors, Dante Exum and Raul Neto, and while some speculated that Utah would pursue and add free agent Nemanja Bjelica, he has reportedly been snatched up by the Philadelphia 76ers.
Things could certainly change between now and July 8th (Udoh’s guarantee date) and 9th (Jerebko’s guarantee date), but indications seem to be pointing now to both of them staying. This would mean that newly drafted Grayson Allen would be the only new addition to Utah’s 15-man roster, essentially taking the spot formerly held by David Stockton.
Meanwhile, guys like Georges Niang and Naz Mitrou-Long continue to impress in Summer League, thus they could very well make a case for earning a spot, though it would seem that unless they prove themselves immensely, they may remain solely on two-way contracts barring some other change with the Jazz roster.
With Utah returning almost the same roster, it’s a clear signal that Jazz brass is banking on continuity being their key to success. And while some may not see that as the most exciting approach, it’s certainly not a bad approach by any means either. In fact, it’s a testament to just how confident the Jazz are in their own ability to grow and build off what began to blossom last season.
The Utah Jazz have retained their three key free agents, meaning next season should be just as fun (if not more so) than last season. Via @jaredwoodcox https://t.co/QKXbCxJC8X
— The J-Notes (@TheJNotes) July 4, 2018
It’s no secret that the Jazz hang their hats on internal development which has become one of the best such programs in the league. If they can cultivate several of the guys on their roster and help them make major strides this offseason, we could see a Utah Jazz team that’s significantly better than last year simply due to organic growth.
And if I had to put money on it, I’d say that’s precisely what is about to happen. Several Jazzmen seem poised for breakout seasons that could propel the team to unforeseen heights.
One of my favorite end of season NBA Awards is the Most Improved Player Award. Recognizing a player that upped his game to a whole new level is always exciting to behold. We’re a long ways away from the start of the upcoming season, and even further from the conclusion of it, but based on Utah’s development track record and the situations of some of their current guys, there are four Jazzmen who I think could legitimately contend for the award.
Let’s dive in and take a closer look at each one of them that I believe could be MIP candidates for the 2018-19 season–