Jazz's controversial strategy is vindicated by Ace Bailey

Ace Bailey just had the best game of his young career for the Utah Jazz last night. The Jazz rookie put up 25 points on 11-for-16 shooting, but the game film told the story better than his statline did. Bailey hasn't exactly dominated in his rookie season overall, but he has given Utah every reason to believe the future is bright. Because of Bailey's palpable potential and talent, it justifies Utah's tanking strategy.

Just look at these highlights and try your best not to think Bailey has the makings of a franchise cornerstone.

Now imagine the Jazz getting another Bailey-like prospect in addition to what they already have. Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George (presumably) will be here for the long haul in addition to Walker Kessler (again presumably). Utah has three proven commodities in addition to an exciting youngster in Bailey, and is in line to get another one from a loaded draft class if the tank continues to go swimmingly.

It's not fun to watch the Jazz lose over and over again because at some point, something's gotta give. However, it's nights like last night that justify why they're doing this. Besides of course, giving up their pick to Oklahoma City. Still, imagine adding a young player just as exciting as Bailey, if not more so.

These next three months will be a little difficult to watch (and it will probably get worse by March/April), but Bailey's breakout last night demonstrates the long-term potential of this Jazz team. Even better, by the start of next season, the narrative on them could completely flip.

Bailey also helps this year feel different from last year

At first glance, the Jazz repeating the same tanking strategy they did last year would make the fans groan. However, this year feels different because there aren't nearly as many questions. Many wondered whether Utah would have that franchise building block, and Bailey made a pretty compelling case that it's him.

And it's not like he's entirely the endgame for this team. Last year, many questioned exactly what Keyonte George was as a player, and now there's no doubt about the kind of player he is. More than that, there's now excitement that he might simply be scratching the surface for what he could be.

After a pretty concerningly bad season from Markkanen last year, he showed that he still has his best stuff ready for Utah. All of these points to the fact that, even if this Jazz team finishes with the same record as last season (unlikely), fans have reason to believe the persistent losing ends in April.

And Bailey's explosive night serves as proof of why this losing, however ugly it may look, is worth it in the end.