As the winners of seven consecutive games and holders of a sterling 20-7 record, one could make the case that the best move the Utah Jazz could make in 2021-22 is no move at all. It may not the flashiest decision, but this is a well-balanced, deep roster of talented veterans. It may be fully actualized and maximized as it stands. On the other hand, the Jazzmen do face stiff competition, particularly in the Western Conference. While 20-7 is an impressive record, the Golden State Warriors (23-5) and Phoenix Suns (22-5) both sit considerably ahead of the Jazz in the standings.
Meanwhile, the defending champion Milwaukee Bucks (19-11) and star-studded Brooklyn Nets (20-8) both loom as sleeping giants in the event that the Jazz punch a ticket to the NBA Finals. The Bucks have been riddled with injuries all season, and have looked like rightful champions when healthy. The Nets have managed a 20-8 start without Kyrie Irving: should a plant-based vaccine hit the open market, the NBA might be in trouble.
Other teams have been impressive too, from the Chicago Bulls (17-10) to the plucky Memphis Grizzlies (17-11), but the four previously mentioned teams are probably the ones the Jazz need to be comparing themselves to.
Here, we’ll compare the Utah Jazz to the best teams the NBA has to offer, and hope to come to a conclusion about whether they necessarily need to broker a significant trade this season.