This year, the Jazz will aim to be like the old school team in more than one way. For one, they are bringing back the old uniforms and court. Many fans are pleased with this as they have requested it for years.
For two, they are aiming to replicate the most successful era in franchise history. Only twice have the Jazz appeared in the NBA Finals, and it was back-to-back in 1997 and 1998. Both times they came up short to the Chicago Bulls, led by Michael Jordan.
To be fair, everyone came up short against Michael Jordan in his prime. He prevented several NBA legends from winning a championship including Patrick Ewing, Charles Barkley, Shawn Kemp, and Reggie Miller. For other NBA legends, their championship ring was delayed because of His Airness. Back then, nobody could beat the Bulls with Jordan.
But that’s beside the point — the Jazz are aiming to get back to the Finals and win it this time. The closest thing we had to the Bulls Dynasty was the Warriors, but now that they’re dismantled the door is wide open for a championship.
The return of the purple mountain jerseys is more than just an exciting new look. It signals elevated expectations to live up to the illustrious heights of the last squad to don the colors. Via @jaredwoodcoxhttps://t.co/CTcJsPLIfc
— The J-Notes (@TheJNotes) August 29, 2019
Now, if the Jazz plan on replicating the late 90s success, they have to get off to a good start. Check out the midseason record for Utah from the 1995 to 2000 seasons:
- 1994-95: 31-10
- 1995-96: 27-14
- 1996-97: 28-13
- 1997-98: 28-13
- 1998-99: the equivalent of 31-10 (lockout shortened season)
- 1999-2000: 27-14
So, basically, the Jazz should be at least 27-14 at midseason point. This is a realistic goal for improvement.