The J-Notes
Fansided

3 Young Utah Jazz players to watch down the stretch

By Jared Koch

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 11: Talen Horton-Tucker #0 of the Utah Jazz handles the ball against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden on February 11, 2023 in New York City. 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 Evan Yu/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 11: Talen Horton-Tucker #0 of the Utah Jazz handles the ball against the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden on February 11, 2023 in New York City. 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 Evan Yu/Getty Images) /
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SALT LAKE CITY UT- NOVEMBER 23: Udoka Azubuike #20 of the Utah Jazz sets up for defense during the first half of their game against the Detroit Pistons November 23, 2022 at the Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Chris Gardner/ Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY UT- NOVEMBER 23: Udoka Azubuike #20 of the Utah Jazz sets up for defense during the first half of their game against the Detroit Pistons November 23, 2022 at the Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Chris Gardner/ Getty Images) /

3. Udoka Azubuike

With the recent news of standout rookie center, Walker Kessler, being likely out for the rest of the season with a concussion, the Jazz will need a new center to start in his place. That player can be former Kansas Jayhawk, Udoka Azubuike.

While Kessler’s production will likely be tough to replicate, the Jazz would be wise to give Azubuike increased playing time to close the season. Azubuike is 23 years old and entering free agency this summer. Therefore, allowing Azubuike to prove his value to the front office could benefit both Udoka and Utah.

In 33 games this season, Azubuike has put up 2.8 points and 2.9 rebounds per game on an incredible 81.5% shooting from the field. While these averages aren’t anything insane, Azubuike, like Kessler, is also known to be more impactful on the defensive side of the ball.

The Jazz decided to give Udoka the start at center in Tuesday’s game vs. the Lakers. In that game, he logged 20 minutes while putting up two points and five rebounds. Anthony Davis also shot 43% from the field in the contest.

Coincidence? I think not.

In short, as a result of the Kessler injury, Utah should continue to start Azubuike for the final three games of the season. In the Jazz’s current position in the league standings, the team should be doing all it can to give these young players opportunities.

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