The 60 reasons to expect 60 or more Utah Jazz victories: Nos. 11-20
11. Donovan Mitchell should now officially have his sights on an MVP — plain and simple.
12. This will be the first season with Dwyane Wade as a minority owner of the Utah Jazz from start to finish. Just look at the positive effect that Wade’s regular presence seemed to have on Mitchell’s lights-out performances in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. His powerful sideline stares, post-game man hugs, and words of wisdom should only aid Mitchell in shining even brighter.
13. On that same note, this will be the second season with Ryan Smith — Wade’s golfing buddy — as the franchise’s majority owner. The value in the 44-year-old’s youthful outlook and positive vibes behind the scenes is underrated.
14. Three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert acts as a Turtle Wax paint protector by warding off playmakers of all shapes and sizes with his innate instincts, nimble feet, and condor wingspan.
15. The Jazz seemed to have upgraded their backup center with the free-agency addition of Hassan Whiteside, who has been no stranger to leading the league in blocks and rebounds per game.
16. Another free-agent pickup, Rudy Gay, has a multifaceted toolbox that should give Utah plenty of freedom in concocting various specialized lineups. Plus, the 35-year-old’s veteran presence will be helpful.
17. With Gobert, Whiteside, and Gay on the roster, there’s every reason to assume Utah will again be among the elite rebounding squads after winding up with the NBA’s most boards per game (48.3) last season.
18. That goes for blocks as well (eighth in the NBA with 5.2 per game in 2020-21).
19. Additionally, by trading for Eric Paschall, the Jazz added bulk to the equation while reuniting Mitchell with his childhood friend.
20. Including Paschall, Utah has nine players on tap who have averaged double-digit points in an NBA season.