Utah Jazz: Three free agents that are unrealistic, but would be a lot of fun

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PORTLAND, OREGON – MAY 18: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors shoots the ball against Meyers Leonard #11 of the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half in game three of the NBA Western Conference Finals at Moda Center on May 18, 2019 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) /

Klay Thompson

If there’s one thing that’s been high on the Jazz wish list the past couple seasons, it’s shooting. And Klay Thompson would bring just that. As prolific of a shooter as they come, Thompson has built a reputation of being able to drain the deep-ball with the best of them and when he gets hot there’s really no stopping him.

He’s shot better than 40 percent from the perimeter in each of his eight NBA seasons including a career-high 44 percent in the 2017-18 season. He’s put up that kind of efficiency while hovering between 7.1 and 8.3 attempts from deep per game which is just astounding.

The gravity that he would command on offense would open things up incredibly for the Jazz on offense, beginning with Donovan Mitchell who would have abundant room to get into the paint at will and then an amazing guy to dish the ball to on the perimeter if needed in teammate Klay Thompson.

Klay is far more than just a 3-point specialist, though, as he’s averaged 20 points or more per game in each of his past five seasons. He can create his own shot as needed and is also an excellent defender on the opposite end.

In terms of adding the shooting Utah needs, Klay Thompson checks that box emphatically. But he’d also be a third star to pair alongside Mitchell and Gobert that would cover an enormous scoring load, wouldn’t hinder Utah’s defense at all (in fact, he’d enhance it), and he’d be able to help space the O while also serving as a second creator for a Jazz team that desperately needs more playmaking.

If I had to guess, my money is on Thompson staying right where he is in The Bay. And even if he were to depart, I would never expect him to join the Jazz but rather could see him going to a team like the LA Clippers (if they add another star alongside him) or Los Angeles Lakers where he could remain in a large market, sign a big contract, and take on a big-time role as number two guy rather than 3a alongside Draymond Green with the Golden State Warriors.

Even so, it’s fun to dream what it would be like to see a shooter and all-around great player of his magnitude join up with a Jazz squad that would likely compete at the highest level with his services.

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