Utah Jazz: Four big bright spots after the first four games
By Ryan Aston
3) They’re getting to the line
Jazz coach Quin Snyder has made a concerted effort to put pressure on opposing teams at the rim, capitalizing on the verticality of Gobert and Derrick Favors, as well as the penetrating abilities of Mitchell, Dante Exum and Alec Burks. For the most part, it’s proved to be a good strategy, with the most substantial gains being made at the foul line.
The Jazz are currently racking up 29 free throw attempts per 100 possessions. Not only is that a great number, but as of Friday afternoon, it’s second across the entire Association and just 0.3 attempts/100 poss. behind the aforementioned Pels at No. 1.
If Mitchell would start getting the ref respect many anticipated was coming his way, they’d really be cooking.
Bottom line — in a league where 3-point shooting has become the emphasis, the Jazz are attacking the basket and, when they don’t score, they’re getting to the line. That’s still the most efficient way to get points that there is, so Utah’s propensity to draw fouls will serve them well if it keeps up.
Particularly if the team free throw percentage remains in the high 70s.