Utah Jazz: Three takeaways from training camp with preseason looming

#3 Quin Snyder already really trusts Conley and Davis

It’s no secret that the Utah Jazz have had their eyes on Mike Conley for quite some time and that everyone from the coaches to management was thrilled when they finally landed him. And based on what we’ve seen and heard thus far, Coach Snyder is very much trusting of his new point guard.

The coach had the following to say about his new point man:

"“It’s unusual that you trust a player so quickly, but I think he’s earned that. That’s who he is.”"

Snyder added that merely calling Conley smart is selling him short, which speaks volumes to how confident he and the Jazz are in Mike running the offense for the team. He was brought in to be a stabilizing force at the point guard position, a dynamic shot creator and a reliable player on both ends of the floor. Considering some of the inconsistent ups and downs the Jazz have had at the point guard position with the likes of Ricky Rubio, George Hill and others, Conley should prove to be a breath of fresh air.

Conley has long been known as a great teammate, an excellent defender and a high-IQ guy that takes care of the ball. And as he does all those things in Utah while meshing seamlessly with his teammates, expect him to only further gain Snyder’s trust.

But Conley isn’t the only newcomer that Snyder has really highlighted thus far in training camp, he’s also had exceptional things to say about big man Ed Davis. When asked what he’s liked about Davis up to this point, he replied bluntly, “What have I not liked?!”

That is befitting of what Davis has brought to the table for every team he’s played with. He has an incredible motor, an unrelenting hustle and an amazing drive. He’s not afraid to do the dirty work, and his extra effort and determination plays will likely make him a favorite in no time among the Jazz faithful. He’s an elite rebounder and a solid rim protector that will be both a trusty backup for Gobert while bringing a unique dynamic of his own when he’s on the floor.

It’s great to see Quin trusting these new guys so quickly. Coach Snyder has built a reputation as a guy who has high expectations for his players and that wants to see them succeed within his system, so for the newcomers to already be earning high marks is a great sign.

Conley and Davis have already obviously both made a major impression on their teammates as well with Mitchell and others praising Conley as a leader and teammate and Rudy Gobert speaking about Ed Davis’ relentless toughness and effort.

Of course, during the optimism and excitement of training camp, it’s rare to find much discouragement or criticism. This Utah Jazz team is looking and sounding great, but they still have a lot to prove. Nevertheless, there seems to be an undeniable confidence and readiness about them that makes it hard to not be giddy about the upcoming year.

Save for the disappointing setbacks for Dante Exum, the team seems to be coming together nicely, earning both the trust of their coach and the trust of each other. If their solid chemistry and elite play together can uphold throughout the rigors of a challenging season against daunting opponents, this Utah Jazz team could very well be poised to make big waves in 2019-20.