3 under the radar players the Utah Jazz should be keeping an eye on

Deni Avdija

When looking at players who could make an impact on the Utah Jazz without serving as a replacement, that is a short list. One of the names that makes the most sense is Deni Avdija of the Washington Wizards. He had a breakout year campaign during the 2023-2024 season, proving he can score the ball with efficiency.

He shot over 50% from the floor, and just shy of 40% (37.5%) from three this season while scoring nearly 15 points (14.7). It was a true breakout season for the young forward. He also pulled down seven rebounds and dished out nearly four assists per game as well.

He's not just an effective offensive player, but a solid defender. 2023-2024 was the worst defensive year of his career but that has more to do with the fact that he played alongside players who guarded people with the same efficiency as holding up a pasta strainer against the Titanic's haul breach. In Utah, he'll have (hopefully) Kris Dunn and Walker Kessler, giving him some really talented defensive players to lean on.

Avdija could be a great compliment at small forward, next to Collin Sexton, Dunn, Lauri Markkanen, and Walker Kessler. That's a starting five that I believe can make the playoffs.