The J-Notes
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Utah Jazz: One intangible trait that each newcomer will bring to the team

By Jared Woodcox

MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 11: Mike Conley #11 of the Memphis Grizzlies is seen on April 11, 2019 at Methodist University Hospitals Center of Excellence in Faith and Health in Memphis, Tennessee. consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TN - APRIL 11: Mike Conley #11 of the Memphis Grizzlies is seen on April 11, 2019 at Methodist University Hospitals Center of Excellence in Faith and Health in Memphis, Tennessee. consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY MARCH 17: Emmanuel Mudiay #1 of the New York Knicks shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 17, 2019 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY MARCH 17: Emmanuel Mudiay #1 of the New York Knicks shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers on March 17, 2019 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Emmanuel Mudiay – Determination

Emmanuel Mudiay wasn’t your typical free agent addition. Unlike what is usually the case when it relates to the Utah Jazz, he and his agent came directly to the organization with an interest to sign with the team. Being familiar with what Utah’s renowned development program was known for, Mudiay wanted a chance to expand his still growing game with some of the best in the business.

That’s exciting in and of itself for many reasons. It shows that Mudiay is willing to humble himself and go to work. It shows that the Jazz are becoming more and more appealing as their culture and winning ways gain more respect.

It’s also exhilarating because it means that Mudiay is going to bring a phenomenal trait to this already stacked Jazz team. Considering how greatly he wants to work hard and salvage his thus far underwhelming NBA career, Mudiay is going to bring a passionate determination that might outmatch that of just about every other player on the team.

Playing on a meager one-year minimum contract, Mudiay knows that this season will be his proving ground. Of course, there is a risk of that permitting him to become selfish and try to do too much, but considering the solid coaching, teammates and organization that will be around him, I’m not too worried about things tilting to that side.

More than anything, I expect a Mudiay who will be anxious to learn and determined to hone his craft. A player with that level of motivation and willingness to work, improve and perform is a great addition for any team. Mudiay will have to fight and scrap for minutes, and I project that the determination he plays with could also help spur his teammates on as well.

We’ve talked about all of these traits thus far likely having an impact on the teammates surrounding these players. The story is no different with Mudiay. While his opportunities will likely be less than others, his stakes are quite high. And as he plays with determination and works relentlessly to improve his game, his efforts could very well be inspiring to a team with lofty goals this upcoming season.

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