5. Utah Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson
The reigning NBA Sixth Man of the Year is likely to compete for the same award next season, which will be the 29-year-old’s third with the Utah Jazz. And there’s no reason to think Jordan Clarkson is anything but happy in Salt Lake City these days.
He’s had sufficient time to settle into his role and build chemistry with the other showmen in town. Last season, while lighting up defenses off the bench with a career-high 18.4 points per game, Clarkson repeatedly alluded to how much he is embracing the opportunity to attempt to get the franchise over the hump by whatever means necessary.
Sure, the “Flame Thrower” could use a touch more fire on the defensive end. Plus, as a high-volume shooter who only ever sees green lights in his mind when he’s on the floor, Clarkson’s cold nights can become a headache to watch due to the constant clanging sounds.
But Clarkson boasts a unique ability to come in and refire a stagnant Jazz offense. Therefore, one would think Quin Snyder will again consistently instruct the 6-foot-4 shooting guard to go in and be the bucket manufacturer that he has become in seven years as a pro.
Projected playing time for Jordan Clarkson: 27 minutes per game