Jazz record prediction makes their best season approach crystal clear

Even though they may not be on the same level as the Wizards or the Pistons, the Utah Jazz are likely going to be bad. This isn't just because of the talent level on their roster but also because almost every team in the West will fight for a playoff spot.

There's always the chance they may go in a different direction, but tanking for a higher lottery pick is actually even better for the Jazz this season, knowing what could be at stake if they don't. Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus outlined the situation while explaining why he believes the Jazz will finish with a record of 22-60.

One subtle reason why the Jazz should tank

Pincus harped on something that hasn't gotten much attention for the Jazz as they enter the 2024-25 season.

"Lauri Markkanen is an All-Star talent, but the Jazz don't have enough support to win consistently. While the franchise can try to scrap out every win for a mediocre result and a lost draft pick to the Thunder—instead, look for Markkanen to sit at some point as the team commits hard to the tank.

For context, the Jazz owe a top-10 protected first-round pick to the Thunder because of the Derrick Favors trade from 2020. The Jazz traded that pick to Oklahoma City as compensation for taking Favors' contract.

The Thunder are already one of the league's best teams. In fact, many believe they could reach the NBA Finals with the roster they have and knowing who they added. Getting a potential lottery pick on top of that would only make the rich get richer.

While giving up a late lottery pick isn't nearly as bad as giving up a high lottery pick is, OKC has hit bullseyes with a few of their first-round picks for the last few years, which has played a hand in why they have pretty surly expectations this season. Give them another one, and they could further fortify a potential dynasty in the Western Conference.

The Jazz's primary focus should be acquiring young talent for themselves more than anything else, but continuing with the same approach they've taken for the past two seasons could have consequences that they don't want.

It may not be fun to watch the Jazz not play all too well, but knowing that they could actually lose their pick if they don't go for the tank, that could make the losing more than worth it.