The J-Notes
Fansided

3 Utah Jazz players who definitely shouldn’t be back next year

By Jared Koch

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 13: Rudy Gay #22 of the Utah Jazz handles the ball while being guarded by Bennedict Mathurin #00 of the Indiana Pacers in the second quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 13, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 13: Rudy Gay #22 of the Utah Jazz handles the ball while being guarded by Bennedict Mathurin #00 of the Indiana Pacers in the second quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 13, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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 Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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SALT LAKE CITY UT- APRIL 8: Simone Fontecchio #16 of the Utah Jazz grabs a rebound from the Denver Nuggets during the second half of their game April 8, 2023 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- APRIL 8: Simone Fontecchio #16 of the Utah Jazz grabs a rebound from the Denver Nuggets during the second half of their game April 8, 2023 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) /

2. Simone Fontecchio

If you have never heard this name before in your life; I don’t blame you. Fontecchio is a 27-year-old rookie from Italy who averaged 6.3 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in his first year in the league. Despite being signed to a two-year deal by the Jazz last offseason, Fontecchio really shouldn’t see any more time with the Jazz going forward.

Last season, Simone struggled a bit with his efficiency. He shot 37% from the field and 33% from three. With him already having so many years under his belt as a player, it’s not like there’s much progression to be expected with him.

The Jazz will have a great opportunity this offseason to improve their backup forwards as well. Whether it comes from one of their three first-round picks, or from their substantial cap space this offseason, the Jazz should most likely have some better players coming in to take up some minutes at forward.

So let’s take a step back and ask ourselves: does Simone Fontecchio really have a long-term future with the Utah Jazz? Probably not, and with him being owed about $3 million next season, that’s money that can be better spent elsewhere.

If Fontecchio can be dealt for a late pick, or be thrown in as a salary dump in a deal this offseason, the Jazz should jump on it. The roster spot and cap space can be spent better elsewhere.