5 burning questions for the Utah Jazz ahead of free agency 2022

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DALLAS, TX – MAY 6: Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball as Frank Ntilikina #21 of the Dallas Mavericks defends during the first half of Game Three of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Western Conference Semifinals at American Airlines Center on May 6, 2022 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images) /

4. Who can the Jazz target to add toughness to the lineup?

One of Utah’s biggest problems in the post-season has been their inability to step up and play the tough, physical game that playoff basketball can become, while sticking to your strengths as a team, and that’s something that can certainly be fixed in the upcoming period. Sure, if the Jazz keep Rudy Gobert, he offers the backbone of a potentially great defense, but he can’t do it alone, and with so many talented defensive players available via trade or free agency, they need to make a move.

There are plenty of names available, such as P.J. Tucker, Bobby Portis and potential trade targets such as Matisse Thybulle, Frank Ntlikina and Marcus Morris, and if the Jazz are serious about stepping up when it matters, this should be one of the biggest priorities this off-season. If Gobert is on the move like most expect, then the Jazz will need to target some other defensive minded players to make up for the loss, because there’s no one man in the NBA that can replicate what the Frenchman does as a defensive presence.

If Donovan Mitchell is the one to lead this young team forward, there’s no doubt that there will be a bigger emphasis on offense, but defense wins championships in sports, and if the Jazz can add 2-3 players with a defensive minded attitude along with all the scoring, this could be a team to watch in 2022/23.

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