Thus far, the Utah Jazz haven't really had too much competition in terms of tanking. Some of the worst NBA teams, like the Wizards and the Raptors, were to be expected. However, there have been some unexpected competitors, like the 76ers and the Pelicans.
Both have been torn apart by injuries to start the season. The Sixers have spent time with Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey unavailable for stretches. The Pelicans have been dealing with injuries to Zion Williamson (what else is new?) and Dejounte Murray.
Well, the Pelicans, who like the Sixers, were supposed to be good this season, just got some good news. Chris Haynes reported that Murray will return on Wednesday after the last few weeks with a broken hand.
Sources: New Orleans Pelicans star Dejounte Murray — who fractured his left hand on opening night — intends to make his return Wednesday against the Toronto Raptors. pic.twitter.com/5T4DGxdo0y
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) November 25, 2024
The Pelicans technically have a worse record, as they have one more loss than the Jazz do at 4-13. Murray may not necessarily be a superstar but he is an impactful player. Coming off as an awkward fit in Atlanta for the last two seasons, Murray has something to prove in New Orleans.
Why this is good news for the Jazz
With Murray coming back in the coming days, that could help steer the Pelicans back in the right direction. Granted, they have a mountain to climb from here since the Western Conference continues to be the dogfight it has always been, but Murray should be a step in the right direction.
That, in turn, should lead to the Pelicans getting more wins, which should separate them from the Jazz in the Western Conference standings. While lottery odds may be spread out, the Jazz having to deal with one less bad team in the league should put them at ease regarding their chances of getting a franchise player in the draft.
The Jazz have had some surprising wins recently, but they have been few and far between. Luckily, they're not committed to putting a downright terrible product on the floor, but their intention has been to lose as many games as they can.
Teams like the Pelicans and Sixers are in the same place as the Jazz by accident. Because the season is still young, there is still time to just let their guys return, and when they do, they can then play like the teams they hoped they would be.
In turn, if those teams get what they want, the Jazz will get what they want. It's only been a minor inconvenience thus far, and from the looks of things, it shouldn't be for much longer.