Utah Jazz: 5 target players to pair with Donovan Mitchell

Marcus Smart

Recently the Jazz played the Celtics twice in a two week frame, so my memory and feelings of Marcus Smart are really fresh right now. Smart is one of those players that I can’t stand to watch, and here’s why:

• He draws charges/flops all the time
• He complains way too much to the officials
• He can now hit three pointers in abundance, which used to be his only weakness
• He constantly is jawing and talking trash with the opponents

But imagine what Smart could do for the Jazz. He’s basically a more consistent version of Royce O’Neale that can handle more offensive responsibility when called upon.

He was originally drafted as a combo guard with point guard skills, but has evolved into a monster that can guard four positions.

And as far as the toughness element: has this not been what the Jazz have lacked all season long? An enforcer?

Because of how volatile Smart is (and his occasional overconfidence in his shot), there’s a chance he completely clashes with Utah’s high culture that doesn’t attract big egos or personalities. Is it a risk worth taking though?

If it works out, the Utah Jazz have one of the most balanced offensive-defensive backcourts in the Western Conference. Their defense most likely returns to its normal stinginess we all love, and this set-up just might allow the Jazz to remain at the top of the Western Conference.

The Warriors will be storming back to power next season, and young teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and New Orleans Pelicans will be on the rise as well. I’m worried if the Jazz don’t make a move this offseason, they will drop to the bottom of the Western Conference playoff picture.