NBA lockout: What about the draft?

Look for the lockout beard to claim Stern's face once again

Not being the brightest mathematician, my freshman year of high school I found myself wedged in a math class with snot nosed, hormone in-raged, screeching 7th and 8th graders... I was one of two 9th graders in the class (and the other, an "Einstein" who used to stick sowing needles into his palm... great company right?).

As miserable as that experience was, like many historical events, I am able to now gleam from it a greater understanding of how Jimmer Fredette might of felt as one of the few 4 year college players in a draft of one and done's... like sticking needles in your palm.

Fortunately for me, I was able to move on out of Jr. High and into my sophomore year. I was then placed with other mathematical "slows" my own age. God bless "No child left behind"!

Unfortunately for the Jimmer, he may of just been placed on an team busting open with "needle in palm" types.

Good luck with that James.

Jimmer is a rather rare bread in today's "youth and potential over proven experience" style of NBA draft classes. One and done has gone from being the new baby elephant at the zoo, to just another pigeon in the city. Nothing against the pigeons of the league, but if a new flock are gonna learn to fly every year, can we at least keep more of them in the city park until they are less likely to "bomb" in mid flight (Hassan Whiteside anybody)?

What the front door am I talking about!? I'd like to see a better transition, with more options, from High school all-star to NBA rookie. The one and done, or the Jimmer four are fine, but shouldn't there even be more options? I would say yes, and can think of a few depressed NBA young guys (did I mention Hassan Whiteside) who would agree.

So assuming Adam Silver and Derrick Fischer are diligent readers of the Sports Cave, here is the second instalment of...

The NBA Lockout: How to fix it - The Draft & Rookie Development. (Read the first installment here)

The LeBron Clause

When LeBron opted to pass over the college experience (or took too much cha-ching to be allowed to play in college) he did so with a pretty good perfect understanding that he not only was going to be a first rounder, but a lotto draftee.

Mr. James is why the league needs to be able to draft out of high school again (18 year old+), to of missed the rookie season of L.J. would have been a shame.

Now what makes it the LeBron rule is where he was drafted...

Rule: Any player drafted out of high school (18 years or older) must spend 1 full season in the D-league if not selected as a lottery pick, and 2 full seasons if selected in the 2nd round/or signed as an un-drafted free agent.

This would greatly discourage any player from signing with an agent unless they felt very strongly they were a going as a high pick, and it would discourage a franchise from reaching too much late in the 1st and in the 2nd round.

It's not perfect, but it does give options to both players and franchises.

The Jimmer Clause

Jimmer spent four years becoming a better player without getting a dime. Mostly because he had to to get the exposure he needed, but there is no doubt he is a much better player today than after his Freshman year at BYU.

He will be able to contribute at a much higher level right out of the gate... he should be rewarded for the hard work he put in.

Rule1 : If a college player spends four seasons in college, his first 2 year's salary do not count towards the cap space of the team that drafts him for those two years.

The same four season player skips his rookie salary structure and starts his structure at the mid level exception if he is drafted in the first round.

If he is drafted in the 2nd round or as an un-drafted free agent, he is due to receive the same salary amount as any other 2nd rounder, but unlike any other 2nd rounder, is given the same guaranteed years as a first rounder.

Rule 2: A player that is drafted after his third season gets all the above, except he does not skip his rookie contract, and only his first year salary does not count towards the teams cap.

Rule 3: A player drafted after his 2nd season receives the same as the 3 college season player, but the franchise that drafts him does not receive any salary cap advantages.

Rule 4: A player who leaves after one season (one and done) receives the same as the 2 season college player, except does not receive the guaranteed contract if drafted in the 2nd round.

I almost called this the "No name guy from Iran Clause" as I was thinking about all the well developed, experienced college players that were passed on this last draft in the second round to pick up "some no name guy from Iran"!

By placing these draft rules into effect, the NCAA would also be more cooperative with the NBA. Allowing a much later date for college players to withdraw their names from the draft able players list and still maintain their college eligibility.

I had a few young students in that math class that actually became pretty good friends, and even helped me a lot with my sweet math skills.

NBA, meet NCAA. NCAA, meet NBA. I know you two would be great friends if you would stop trying to knock each other out!

If the NCAA would help guide great players to an NBA career instead of practically penalizing them if they even think about the NBA, the NBA would be much more "helpful" with donations and clinics. If you regulate those type of things instead of outlawing them both sides could benefit greatly.

and finally, one more though...

Just got this from a good friend of mine, Cody (Check out his blog here). Interesting possibility if the NBA lockout takes the whole season...

"Fist of all, let's hope it doesn't come to this.

So I read your tweet about where the Jazz might pick if the entire NBA season is cancelled. (Again, not hoping for that) I couldn't think of any precedence in the NBA, but I remembered that the NHL was locked out all of the 2004- 2005 season. Here is what they did (via Wikipedia) "As a lockout cancelled the 2004–05 NHL season, the draft order was determined by lottery on July 22, 2005. Teams were assigned 1 to 3 balls based on their playoff appearances and first overall draft picks from the past three years. According to the draft order, the selection worked its way up to 30 as usual; then instead of repeating the order as in past years, the draft "snaked" back down to the team with the first pick. Therefore the team with the first pick overall would not pick again until the 60th pick. The team with the 30th pick would also get the 31st pick. The draft was only seven rounds in length, compared to nine rounds in years past." Not sure if the NBA would do something similar but who knows? Another tidbit, that draft was the year the Pens nabbed Sidney Crosby. Things are looking dim. On PTI today the ESPN capologist pegged the odds of missing the entire season at 75%. 75%! I hope he is wrong."

I wonder if there is a written rule for this, or if it is just a "make it up as you go" kinda thing... just evidence that we are once again on a path that has never been tread.

Thanks Cody.

So now you have it, installment two on How to fix the lockout.

Mr. Stern, I will expect my "mediator fee" check to be in the mail.

NBA Lockout: How to fix it!

What a draft! The most watched boo session on David Stern since he shook hands with Kevin Durrant in 2007!
So now what? Now, after all the talking heads said was one of the most "talentless" draft classes became one of the most watched, and after a finals that pitted the villains of Miami against the "team first" Mavericks, and after the single most exciting college player in the last 25 years has just "Jimmered" his way into the league... now what? Now David Stern, Derrick Fisher, and the rest of the league want to shut it down, wear matching t-shirts, and whine about who's gonna pay for the insurance on their third home in Maui.

Great idea, fake businessmen.

When grown men wear matching T-shirts to a business meeting, how much progress can really take place? It's gonna be a long Summer... Fall? Winter?!

So how do you fix it? Like this!

A salesman in the NBA
Have you ever seen a really good salesman? Why are they good, because they have to be, that's how they feed their families.

Have you ever seen a player give up on a play, a game, a season? Yea, you have. What about owners? Yup, them too.

It's time to put a door to door salesman attitude into the league... it's time to bring a commission+base salary to the NBA!

Rookie Salary Structure:
A player is drafted and signed to a similar amount as is right now, but only 20% of it is guaranteed. The other 80% is divided up into 82 parts and one part is paid out with each win.

1st year: 20% Base 80% Win commission
2nd & 3rd year: 25% Base 75% Win commission
4th year: 30% Base 70% Win commission
5th year (team option): 50% Base 50% Win commission

Example: Gordon Hayward 2010-11 actual salary: $2,356,320

  $471,264 guaranteed (20% Base of $2,356,320)

+ 39 wins @ $22,988 a game= $896,532


Gordon's 2010-11 "Sportscave" salary = $1,367,796

the 2nd contract and beyond will follow a similar structure, but with a higher Base rate, and even higher if re-signed with current team.


Resign with current team:
1st year: 60% Base 40% Win commission
2nd year: 65% Base 35% Win commission
3rd year: 70% Base 30% Win commission
4th year (player option): 75% Base 25% Win commission

Free Agent sign with a new team:
1st year: 50% Base 50% Win commission
2nd year: 55% Base 45% Win commission
3rd year: 60% Base 40% Win commission
4th year(player option): 75% Base 25% Win commission


*A bonus system could also be applied for making the playoffs, conference finals, or NBA finals.

The cap would be hard, but would based off of 75% of the total potential salary. Each team could have 2 players that don't count towards the cap.
One is the "native"; any player that was drafted by the team and has never left under free agency (Example:Kobe Bryant, C.J. Miles, or Dwayne Wade). This rewards good drafting, and loyalty.
The second is 1 mid-level-exception player.

That's it. That's the basics of my salary structure.

This will be an on-going series that will deal with the reality of the CBA and what else is wrong with the NBA. If a fat guy sitting on his couch can solve the problems of the NBA, than there might be a fighter's chance for a new CBA to be drawn up... even if one side can't stop wearing matching clothes!

*My next one in the series will be on the draft and how to improve it.

Utah Jazz Draft Review

The NBA draft has come and gone for another year and the Jazz have picked up two young players. The Jazz had 2 picks and they drafted:

1st round, 3rd pick - Enes Kanter; Turkey, 6'11" 260 lbs, Center

Kanter brings much needed depth to the Jazz front-line and gives them a potential star. He sat out all of last season with Kentucky and has not played as much basketball as other prospects that were in this draft. From the tape I have watched on him I think he is similar to Brook Lopez of the New Jersey Nets. He has great size and is a better offensive player than he is a defensive player.

Here is his post draft interview as well as some highlights:





For more on Kanter checkout Draft Express

The Jazz with their 2nd pick selected:

Alec Burk; Colorado, 6'6" 190 lbs, Shooting Guard

Burk has been compared a lot to Ronnie Brewer by the local media, which is not a great comparison. Burk does not have the defensive abilities that Brewer did when he came into the league but he is a much better scorer. Burk has very good handles with the basketball and can create his own shot.... something Brewer still does not have. Another point is that Brewer came into the NBA after his Junior year (avg 18 pts a game)and Burk is only a Sophomore (avg 20 pts a game). Look for him to be more aggressive with driving in the lane rather than settling for a jump shot... something that Wes Matthews did extremely well with the Jazz.

Here is his post draft interview and highlights:





For more on Burk check out Draft Express.

You can check out what coach Tyrone Corbin had to say about the Jazz draft here.

Yahoo Sports are saying the following about the Jazz Draft:

"Winner: Utah Jazz:"

"The Utah Jazz quietly improved their team by adding Kanter (No. 3) and Colorado guard Alec Burks (No. 12). Kanter proclaimed a day earlier that he is the best player in the draft, and with his size, scoring ability and rebounding he has the talent and potential to prove he is right. While Burks isn’t a household name, he was a proven scorer in college, averaging 20.5 points last season as a sophomore. The Jazz have an intriguing group of young players in Kanter, Burks, Derrick Favors, Gordon Hayward and Jeremy Evans."

Fox Sports is also calling the Jazz a Winner:

"Many Utah fans were hoping the team would use one of its two lottery picks on BYU star Jimmer Fredette, but the Jazz got an impressive duo in center Enes Kanter (right) and shooting guard Alec Burks. Both are unfamiliar to many fans since Kanter was ruled ineligible before playing a game at Kentucky and Burks played for a Colorado team that didn't make the NCAA tournament, but they may be the best athletes at their respective positions."

Even a few ESPN analyst are jumping on board the Jazz draft:

Pick for draft winners-

"Hayes Davenport, Celtics Hub: Other than Metta World Peace, who has to be pretty excited that he out-trended the draft, the Jazz had the best evening. They were able to draft for need and overall value with both of their first-round picks without taking too many risks. But it's a close call, because the Wizards did the same."

Pick for draft steal-

"Dan Feldman, PistonPowered: The Jazz taking Alec Burks. Three guards -- Kemba Walker, Jimmer Fredette and Klay Thompson -- went immediately ahead of him, but Burks will be the best of the four.

He's predominantly a slashing scorer, but he'll also rebound and pass well for his position."

For more reviews check out the Deseret News.

NBA Mock Draft 3.1

Dear OKC Thunder fans

From A Jazz fan

Dear OKC Thunder fans,

Thank you. Thank you for the reminder… check that; thank you for the slap in the face and the ice-cold water on our sleeping faces.

The word passion is often over used to describe less than passionate realities. Not this time. The passion you put out to this paralyzing entertaining, but young Thunder team the past few years is astounding. Such a young franchise (or an old one beat up and re-built) often gets some excited NBA fans to follow right away, and drip by drip add in “home team” fans. But in OKC, a city known for overcoming adversity time and time again, someone turned the “big city/big market” sprinklers on and flooded the basement!

As an outsider looking in with no connection to your great Midwest town, I have no real reason to be an OKC fan… except for the fact that something has drawn us in. I use us, because there is an “us”.

The “us” is not just I and the few friends I waste too much time talking about Westbrook & Durant’s brilliant plays. It extends further than my limited following on twitter (@sportscavelive) or Facebook. It stretches a little more than the Salt Lake Valley. I know a good portion of Utah is on board, and hope our home team Jazz can emulate in some way what you have been a part of. When Durant quietly signed his extension without letting us know where is “talents” were going, it grew a little. When Westbrook first broke out those sweet interview specs… it spread a little more. When the beard took over the face, it took over a few fans too. After the fascination of “what’s in the backpack” took over a good portion of the web, we gained a few OKC bus riders. And when YOUR Thunder broke the mold of “what it takes to win in the NBA”… and still won, it became a passion again.

So although I may root against Durant when they come to play in SLC, from this moment on I’m not just a follower of the Thunder, I’m a fan.

-Sincerely,

A “new” OKC Thunder fan.

What will the Jazz do with the 3rd pick

The 2011 NBA Lotto came and went...

The "half" man won, the neurotic manager came in second, and the grumpy old G.M. came in third... or lost.

That sounds way too similar to this new hit show I've been hearing about...

So does that make our pal Kevin O.C.... Charlie Sheen? Winning?

Well with third pick Utah does have a "winning" shot of getting a game changing player in the draft. But in what is widely considered a two player draft, is third really just the first loser? Or am I just thinking too much on the last Jazz season? I can't tell anymore... No wonder Mr. Sheen went off the deep end... where's my machete?

Getting away from Sheen and onto what really happens with the third pick is both exciting and REALLY disappointing.

Like I said, it's a two player draft. Derrick Williams and Kyrie Irving are considered interchangeable at the one and two picks, but after that it's WIDE open. So who is the next Jazz man? These are the options that are rumored to be on Utah's short list:

Enes Kanter - C/PF

Enes Kanter: A big bodied C/PF with a wide variety of scoring abilities but who doesn't have the super overwhelming height (he's 6-10 if he's lucky) to be a stand alone 5, or any type of flashy lateral quickness to be a pure 4.

Why I like him: He is NBA ready. He will compete right away for serious minutes and seems to have an offensive game (at 18 years old) that is already on par with at least the middle of the pack Bigs in the NBA.

Another reason I really like him is going to sound heartless, and I may get tared and feathered for saying it (I might even supply the feathers!), but if you draft him he makes Paul Millsap completely trade-able. I know; Millsap has been the man through thick and thin, but this IS a business (cliche anyone?) and his trade bait could return some pretty impressive wing pieces.

Why I don't Like him: He adds to the log jam a bit of bigs Utah already has, and he is a bit undersized for his natural position at the 5.

Comparable: Best case-Kevin Love. Worst case-Under sized Chris Kaman

Brandon Knight - PG

Brandon Knight: A smooth PG that can play SG.

Why I like him: He could end up being a big time PG. He has a long body, and can score from anywhere. He has the ability to distribute the ball. He would be groomed to be the next franchise PG in Utah.

Why I don't like him: Had a lot of problems early on at Kentucky. He grew into a pretty impressive player later in the season, but perhaps for me the biggest question is that Utah already has him! What do I mean? He reminds me a lot of Devin Harris.

Comparable: Best case- it's not way hard to see some D. Rose in Knight. Worst case- Devin Harris... that's not so bad.

Kemba Walker - PG

Kemba Walker: A PG that plays like a leader, and has a chip on his shoulder.

Why I like him: He is a winner. He does what it takes for his team to win games. If he is on your team, you are never out of a game. He's well rounded but seems to prefer to shoot.

Why I don't like him: Undersized and seems to always look to shoot. I have questions about what he will be able to do on defense.

Comparable: Best case- Ty Lawson. Worst case- Aaron Brooks

So there you have it. It will most likely be one of those four players.

A couple of semi-long shots would include names like Bismack Byombo, Jan Vesely, or Kahwi Leonard.

The best case scenario for Utah is if Derrick Williams slides out of the top two. That could be the case if Cleveland does what's expected and takes Irving, and Minnisota looks at how many SF's and PF's the have.... and thy take Kanter. At that point Kevin OC will be dancing in SLC as Utah is able to bring into Utah what just may end up being the best SF Utah has EVER had. 

The other question; what/who can Utah package to convince Minni to trade picks? Millsap? CJ? The rights to Ante Tomic? The 12th pick?

So are the Jazz winning in this draft? Only if they can be Ashton Kutcher (just took Sheen's JOB on two & a half men), and Not Chuck Sheen. 

Winning.

Utah Jazz 2011 Draft update v.3

So there you have it. The experts have weighed in and have disagreed across the board! This truly is a wide open draft. As for myself and the rest of the cave, expect another full 2011 NBA mock draft in the near future.

Right now I am working on an off-season article that brings in free agents, draft picks, and other crazy pieces to develop impressive and realistic off-season moves that would totally change the landscape of the team! Get ready for a wild off-season... if we can get by this lockout!

UPDATE: The sportscave's Mock Draft is now part of the biggest Mock Draft Database on the Internet! Do not miss this site! It is clean, sharp, and very cool! Click here

Who do the Jazz take with the 12th pick?

The Jazz have two top 12 picks in, as luck would have it, the pretty "weak" up coming draft. Baring a nice or nasty bounce of the ping-pong balls the first pick will be the 6th and the second pick will be the 12th.
Assuming they keep both picks and don't trade them away, with that 6th pick the Jazz will likely add one of these top players:

Utah Jazz 2011 NBA draft: Dignan's little board

The season is toast! Play the rookies and look to the future.

The Future: The Jazz have the 6th pick in the 2011 draft as of right now. Below is my top 6 picks for the Jazz. Not necessarily the top 6 players in the draft (although...?). I used a combination of "best available" and "position needs" to determine these picks.

my top 6 picks for the Jazz as of right now...

6. Brandon Knight | PG/SG | 6-4 | 183lbs.

*Great scouting report on Brandon Knight HERE!

5. Enes Kanter | C/PF | 6-10 | 255lbs.

Kanter is a bit under sized as an NBA center, but has a thick frame and one of the most NBA ready games in the draft. He will contribute immediately wherever he goes.

4. Terrence Jones | WING | 6-8 | 226lbs.

I keep waiting for this guy to NOT impress me... hasn't happened. His game is being compared to Lamar Odem, A.K., and Shawn Kemp... three very different players. That right there should impress that he is versatile to say the least.

3. Perry Jones | C/PF | 6-11 | 220lbs.

Said to be a guard in a Center's body... that can be great (amazing ball control & smooth shot out to the perimeter), and bad (unusually poor rebounder & his back to the basket is just average). With his size and athleticism, I have a hard time seeing him as anything less than a true starter, with one or two All-Star appearances.

2. Kyrie Irving | PG | 6-2 | 180lbs.

He is what he is... in a good way. Kyrie can man the role of PG for just about any NBA team that doesn't already have an elite franchise guard. He has all the tools to be one of the top guards... only time will tell if he translates into the Williams, Rose, Wall, Rondo, and Paul class, or is just a good starter that should be the 2nd best player on a playoff team.

1. Harrison Barnes | WING | 6-7 | 212lbs.

Barnes can and should be a career top 3 wing player. He has every tool needed to be elite. I think he's ready to help any team right now, and could be the go to guy on almost any team in 3-5 years.

*Guys just outside my top six: Derrick Williams(SF), Kemba Walker(PG), & Kawhi Leonard(SF)

As of right now, Utah has a 2nd pick in the lotto at 12. This is an interesting pick, on the one hand it's great to have a second pick in the lotto. On the other, if it can be packaged in a trade in the off-season...

anyway, other than the guys mentioned above, who i don't think will be there at 12, here are a few scenarios:

If the Jazz get Harrison Barnes, Kyrie Irving, Terrence Jones or Brandon Knight with that 6th pick; I think you obviously look at true a big for the next pick.

John Henson(C/PF), Patric Young(PF/C), & Donatas Motiejunas(C/PF) (in that order) would be at the top of my list.

If a big like Kanter or Perry Jones is taken with that earlier pick, a wing would DEFINITELY need to be taken at 12. If Leonard, Derrick Williams, or Kemba (in that order) are still on the board, it's a no brainer! I don't think they will be. Guys that probably will be available are Jordan Hamilton(WING), Jimmer(PG/SG), Alec Burks(WING), and the stretch to Travis Leslie(SG) (think under-sized DeMar DeRozan with a much better touch on his jumper out to the three).

Terrence Jones

As far as sleepers go, if a lotto pick can be a sleeper, I have a mid to late lotto pick that I think perhaps might be the best guy in the draft... and a potential NBA super star: Terrence Jones! I really have a hard time not picking this guy as my #1 for the Jazz. Barnes and Irving edged him out just because they look like guys that can help out right now on any team. But in the long run (might not be that long!), Terrence might be the best player out of the draft. His ball control is clean and tight as he's able to keep his dribble when most guys with his size and build only put the ball on the floor when they are attacking the rim. He is physically built like LeBron James, and has a game similar to AK's best stuff.

As I have discussed with Ice Man before, Those 20-30 games AK has every year that are super impressive (Sat 2/26/11 : 21pts. 7asts. 7rbds. ) would make AK an all-star if he could do it 70+ times a year!

Enter Terence Jones; A much stronger and more durable AK... yes please!

With the gray sky of missing the playoffs and the looming season lock-out, the draft may be the best thing to look forward to for a long time. 

Utah Jazz 2011 NBA draft watch

Another look at what "experts" are predicting in the 2011 NBA draft.

"With the 6th pick the Utah Jazz select..."

Enes Kanter

Draftexpress.com : Enes Kanter | 6-10, 250lbs. | C/PF | International | 18 yrs old |
Kanter is what he is; an NBA ready big that plays with a lot of maturity and intelligence. He isn't a freak athlete or anything, but he has a thick body that when combined with his court vision and intelligence, will be a steady scorer and rebounder that will make him a starter at the 4/5 spot on almost any team that doesn't have an all-star already there.
Compared to Kevin Love.

ESPN.com : Harrison Barnes | 6-7, 212lbs. | SF | North Carolina | Fr. |
Harrison has come on as of late! He has rebounded back a little bit his high school charm of "the most complete wing since Kobe Bryant".
I feel strongly that he will go sooner than 6, but if he is still on the board at 6 don't expect the Jazz to take anyone else!

Jan Vesely

NBAdraft.net : Jan Vesely | 6-11, 240lbs. | SF/PF | International | 2o yrs old |
International guys always make me nervous. That being said, Jan is one of the most athletic "non-euro league type" guys I've seen (Youtube him!). By that I mean he plays aggressively and dunks everything he can! It's hard to gage weather he is as NBA ready as he looks, or if he is just dominating a soft league.
Don't take this the wrong way, but his game actually reminds me of a MUCH lesser version of LeBron James... I know, that sounds ridiculous. O.K., so then perhaps the 76'ers' "Iggy".
A huge wing that has quickness, but is still lacking the ability to play in the paint on a regular basis. Has the best shot in the NBA as a freakishly long SF rather than a PF.

-As of right now, the Jazz are still a few games out of the playoffs, and have th 13 pick in the 2011 draft.

 "With the 13th pick, the Utah Jazz select..."

Draftexpress.com : Harrison Barnes | 6-7, 212lbs | SF | North Carolina | Fr. |
No way Barnes slips this far, but if he does expect the Jazz to front office to be dancing in the streets of ESA!!! I really like the evaluations of http://www.draftexpress.com/, and think that they usually are the most accurate draft guys... I think they missed this one. BARNES WILL NOT BE HERE AT 13!

Kawhi Leonard

ESPN.com : Kawhi Leonard | 6-7, 225 lbs. | SF | SDSU | So. |
*I actually took this off of Chad Ford's top 100 list, because Jimmer is still the 13th pick on the mock draft, which I already reported on and don't think is realistic.
Kawhi is an NBA guy. I can't stress enough how much this guy reminds me of Gerald Wallace! It is one of the strongest compressions I have seen.
Leonard rebounds extremely well for a SF and plays that aggressive scoring wing so well. He is not a spot up shooter, but with his great athletic ability it would be a waste to spot him up! He gets to the rim well, but doesn't do it enough. His real strength is to rebound, put it back up aggressively and draw the foul. He needs to develop a go to move, and work on his ball control.

Brandon Knight

NBAdraft.net : Brandon Knight | 6-4, 183lbs. | PG/SG | Kentucky | Fr. |
This guy might be the biggest bust/all-star guy on the board. Some scouts say he won't even go in the first round while others say he will be gone in the top 10.
He can flat out score! he shoots very well from behind the arc, and has the quickness to get to the rim... although sometimes seems to not really know what to do when he gets there. His thin frame also makes him a great target for head hunter defenders.
I would not be disappointed with this pick at all. I would love to see a combo guard on the Jazz squad right now. With Harris on the court he could play off the PG and look to blow by slower wing defenders, or be the extra pass guy. His ability to defend the wing or PG is amazing as well. He's long and athletic, but can be pushed around by meatier guards (like D-Will).



My gripe about the title of "poor draft class":


This draft class has been considered a "poor" draft class... that to me is as silly as trying to predict how March Madness will turnout!
Although some seasons produce a clear #1, this season does not. That does not mean there isn't a big time NBA guy or multiple guys in this draft! Just like the tournament, Butler looked incredible, but no one would of predicted that.
I'm not just saying this because the Jazz might have 2 picks in the top 12, but that is frustrating.

The huge upside to this draft is I think there will be less "busts". It seems like there is a smaller amount of D. Cousins type guys, and more Greg Monroe type guys... both were high pick guys, but with Cousins you had a chance of landing a super star or a washout head case... Monroe had less upside, but a lot less possible downside too. Perry Jones, Harrison Barnes, and Enes Kanter are all that type of guy. NBA starters with potential to be a little more or a little less. That's why I like this draft class. If we can get two guys out of a solid and consistent draft class, odds are one of them is going to be pretty special.

I'll take that.

Jeremy Evans: Rotation player?

This is in response to a @SPORTSCAVElive (Twitter) follower ; @juicelake

"Rumors saying Evans may go to D League. Can @SPORTSCAVElive explain your feelings about Evans and why he doesn't play?"

Evans has quickly become a fan favorite, and has shown some incredible athleticism in his time with the Jazz. He can jump out of the building, and has pretty good hands around the rim (as seen as in his ally-oops). He has shown a simple jumper at around 10-12 feet too that has been pretty consistent.
Evans was a shot blocker in college, and was not a bad rebounder either. Those are two traits that almost always translate to the next level.
His man on man D is questionable, not because he can't or wont but because of what I will call the only reason he is not a big time player out of the first round:

He is the definition of a "tweener".

At 6-9, he has the height to play tall SF or mid PF, but because of his freakishly thin frame, can't defend any type of PF post players.
He can however stay in front of almost all basket facing PF's, and a good amount of SF's.
His athleticism is un-real and allows him to move laterally about as well as a completely raw player can.
Evans lacks the polish of a "prime-time" player. And when I say lacks I mean he lacks the polish of the guy that lacks the polish of a prime time player. The D-league will be great for him (I actually am working on a D-league piece right now), as it will give him a much larger amount of minutes and allow him to find out what he can and can't do against defenders.
If the Jazz were already WAY out of the playoff race, I think he would be getting a lot more minutes. But with all the changes, Ty is trying to get himself and his playoff bubble team into the playoffs. If the Jazz lose another handful right in a row (oh please no), Evans will see the NBA floor more.
Evans is a great example of how incredibly difficult it is for a good player to not get minutes in the NBA. Growing the awe of Millsap, a second rounder, even more! Remember, most teams draft in the second round with a "numbers game" attitude: Draft as many as you can, see if they show real promise immediately, throw the ones back that don't, and put the ones that do through hell and see if they stick. If they do, you get guys like Millsap, Landry Fields, Boozer, and CJ miles. If not you get guys like Morris Almond.
I think there is a seat for Evans long term on this team, the problem is right now that seat is occupied by Fes and Frank! Both of whom will be gone after this season.
Look for Evans to see minutes next season (if we don't lose the whole thing to a lockout), especially if he takes this off season aggressively with his shooting set and body development.

Utah Jazz NBA Draft watch 2011

This is a little piece we will be updating after each game from here on out.

With The biggest trade in Jazz history, came a great guard, a future all-star (maybe) PF, and a lotto pick from New Jersey.

Even though this Draft class is suspect according to the "experts", a lotto pick is always a little exciting.

Here is how the Jazz stand right now in the draft, with what Draftexpress.com and ESPN.com are projecting the Jazz to do.

If the 2011 Draft was today:

Or pick from New Jersey shows we pick 6th (there is a 6.3% chance the Jazz can land a 1-3 pick in the lotto, but we will go as though that did not happen)




"With the 6th pick, the Utah Jazz select..."

ESPN: Harrison Barnes 6-7, 212lbs. Small Forward Freshman North Carolina

He was the #1 player coming out of high school, and was strongly compared to Kobe Bryant! Yea, that Kobe. He has been less than amazing at N.C., and now there is a little fear that he will even be less impressive in the NBA. One thought is though that a player who's game resembles Kobe at 18 and loses a little over the next few years, might still have a game that resemble Stephen Jackson's. A 20 year old Stephen Jackson with a cool head... I'd take that!

Draftexpress: Enes Kanter 6-10, 250lbs. Center 18yrs old International

At one point Kanter was projected to go #1 in the draft. The fact that he has not played competitively in well over a year and is still thought of this highly by NBA scouts is pretty incredible.







Hopefully the Jazz will not have another lotto pick because they win some games and make the playoffs. But for now...




"With the 13th pick, the Utah Jazz select..."

ESPN & Draftexpress: Jimmer Fredette 6-2, 195lbs. Guard Senior BYU

I like this pick; not because I am a huge BYU fan (even though I am), but because it is a great pick if it is the Jazz's second pick of the draft.

Jimmer is an electric player that has a lot of "?" about if his incredible college game can translate to the NBA. I'm not 100% sure on that. While I watch him, I get so wrapped up in what he is able to do on the court that I tend to think he will make the jump.

Then the game ends, and my feet hit the ground and I tend to think he just doesn't have some of the tools that a guard in the NBA must have to do well.

But again, if he can be an already good team's second pick, who wouldn't take that risk!?

The Jazz's road ahead... any little Dutch boys?

A little down? Don't be!

Sloan and D-Will... Two guys who did a lot for the Jazz. So much to say about Jerry I think it's insulting to even try. Derron, Good luck. As one of the most talented players Utah has ever seen, you gave a lot to Utah. For that- Thank You.

Was the trade a good idea? Yes. I wont waste my time arguing that point.

Was Sloan pushed out by Williams? NO! Jerry said so, that's why. Respect the man enough to take him for his word. (It's true by the way. Ask me in person or e-mail me and I'll tell you what I know.)

That is all I really want to say about that.


Now, the new look Jazz!

First off:

It is what it is... and it will be good!

Devin Harris and Derrick Favors are now Jazz men. Wow, what a cool thought! Even though it's tough to see change, sometimes it's at least exciting. The unknown leaves that hint of "what if" in the air.

What if....

... Devin Harris becomes an All-Star... again (was in 08-09 season)

... Favors takes that next leap and challenges Millsap next year for the starting spot---> that's called a good problem!

... the new guys gel much quicker than expected, Jazz finish winning 20 games to close in on the playoffs, make a deep playoff run, and Ty and Jerry share "Coach of the year"! (It's a 'what if'', not an 'I predict')

The starting line-up & depth

Position: Starter, Reserve(s)

PG: Devin Harris, Watson

Devin is not Derron... he's Devin. He's an All-star, he's the fastest man alive with a basketball (Guinness book of records), and will be a great PG in Corbin's system. What gave this trade added wheels was Watson. He is by far one of the best back-up PG's the Jazz have had, and loves his role as a back-up!

SG/Wing: Raja Bell, C.J.

This is the weakest link on this roster, and it really isn't too weak. Raja is a Jazz fit: he works hard, fouls hard, and plays with emotion. He's also 34. That's a big deal. I think Bell can be Bell, but for 20 minutes a night, not 30+.
C.J. is the back-up at the 2 and the 3. That doesn't work. Hayward needs to be that other back up. He needs to be the guy that gives the Jazz that unexpected spark... the only problem is now it's expected. Play the minutes Ty gives you big. Play big 9th pick. Play big.

SF/Wing: A.K., C.J. (again)

AK is in his contract season, and he is for the most part living up to the "contract year" stereotype; a player plays much better when he is on line for a new contract next year.
He has had his injuries, but while on the floor AK seems to be channeling the 2004 AK... All-Star A.K.
As much as I like AK's game and hope we re-sign him to a much less contract, I feel this and the SG position is the true need for the Jazz future.

PF: Paul Millsap, Derrick Favors

This is a strong position with a future and depth. The skill set that Paul was forced to develop being undersized and the limitless raw talent and build of Favors... wow! This tandem will wear down even some of the deepest PF teams.
Now, the Jazz just need to make good on a request from Karl Malone... bring him in as a big man's coach. The greatest TRUE power forward to ever play the game wants to coach... the Jazz have a new, young power forward that has an endless well of ultra raw talent and limitless athleticism just wanting to be molded into something fine tuned and amazing! Karl would do it, he just needs to be home by Friday (I really hope you heard his in game interview with Craig and Matt)!

C: Al Jefferson, ? , Fes

Al Jefferson has come on strong as of late, and is showing something amazing; the willingness to re-train and re-build his skill set to better fit the Jazz system... Folks, that just does not happen to a 6 year veteran in the NBA. He is putting up stellar #'s right now, competing for a team that is going through a lot of turmoil, learning a new system, playing at the 5 when he is a true 4, giving up and now re-taking the role of the go to guy, all while making adjustments to deep rooted fundamentals such as how he plays defense, how he uses his body for positioning, how he uses his outside shot, and most of all his pick and roll/screen play.
I am super impressed with Al, and consider him the best center the Jazz have had since Mark.
As for who is backing him up... uh... well... yup.
Fes has shown flashes, but has also shown such a lag that it is ridiculous. I am usually an apologist for fes, but I am just sick of him not being consistent. If he wants to be a true big in this league, he needs to do 3 things in my opinion: make at least 65% of his FT's, NEVER leave his feet on D (he's taller than almost everyone in the league!! no need to big guy), become a rebounding expert.
If he can figure these things out, he will be a great option for the Jazz, and will get good minutes tied to a good contract with Utah. If not, good luck where ever you land next year big guy!

Utah has been given one, maybe two chances, to find a little Dutch boy.

With the Williams trade Utah got NJ's first round pick this draft. THAT PICK WILL BE A LOTTO PICK. NJ will not make the playoffs. That is a given.
the 2nd chance is the pick Utah might create for themselves by not making the playoffs. Now I for one really hope they make the playoffs, and I think they will. But if they don't, the pick they sent to the T-Wolves is protected and the Jazz get to use it! That's a lotto pick.
I believe the needed Dutch boy to plug the hole in the Jazz dam is somewhere in that draft class. Let's look at a few likely options.

Harrison Barnes:  A 6-7 wing player that was compared to Kobe in high school! He has disappointed at North Carolina as a freshman, but is still considered to be at least a strong asset at the wing.

Jordan Hamilton: A "score first, score now" wing player that in his second year is running the Jazz system! Texas coaches came to Utah to learn the flex from the team that runs it better than anyone, the Jazz. That has to be a big gold star to Jazz executives looking for a guy that can help right away.

Terrence Jones: This guy is for real! Unless the Jazz can get a top 5 in the lotto, this guy will be gone. He is a do everything guy. He rebounds, scores, and has a NBA ready body.
at 6-8 he is a good sized 3 that can play the 4. Has some long ball skills as well.

The Jimmer: The hometown favorite. One of the most exciting players ever in college basketball-- can it translate to the league? Above amazing shooter with reach that is unheard of! Suspect D, and average speed are a big question, but if he can hold close to the same shooting percentages in the NBA that he is putting up in college, he could be one of the best floor spacing tools in the league.

Kawhi Leonard: Instantly creates miss-match issues, much like AK and Gerald Wallace do in the NBA. I really like his game, and think his skill set and basketball IQ will translate well into the NBA. He has a consistency that is usually reserved for pros, and in his sophomore year (huge plus in my mind when a player stays for at least two years in college) has improved in just about every category!

With the trade, the new players, the coaching change, the draft picks, and the looming lock-out, this truly is turning into a new era of the Utah Jazz.

"What if", "Just maybe", "I hope", and "Wow!"... perhaps the new Jazz slogan.

Thoughts on Williams, the Millers, and why a lock-out is needed.

Jerry is now on his farm. He will be missed by the NBA and can never be replaced.

Ty is going to be a great coach not only because he has vision and patience, but more so because he has the Millers as his owners. The millers trust to the point of blood as long as a reason isn't given to them to distrust. Ty has been loyal, and will be loyal. The Millers will do the same, and over time we will see a transition from the Sloan era to the Ty era... they will have resemblances, but will also have clear differences.

Williams is in New Jersey. He gave a lot, and was given a lot while in Utah. The Millers and Kevin O'C. made a decision to separate Williams from themselves before they were forced to. Williams has an idea of what he wants. He wants to win, and expects an owner to buy what he needs to help him get that win. The Millers want to win too. They expect to do it a little differently. The Millers will spend money (maybe not as much as Williams wanted them to), but only on pieces and players that meet three criteria: 1) Do they want to be here? 2) Do they fit the coaches system (was Sloan's, now Ty's... this is why Utah really is a great place to coach; they give the head coach a lot of say on who comes in)? 3) Are they over achievers who work hard as close to 100% of the time as possible?

Williams fit that criteria while he was in Utah because he was under contract to do so. I can respect that. He committed to do what was asked as long as he was being paid to. The problem was this: Williams would no longer meet that criteria after the 2011-2012 season. He would be out from his contract, and would not then feel obligated to live by those same terms he was brought in on. Again, I can respect that. He is a man of his word that respects the hand that feeds him. Unfortunately he was not going to be taking food from the Millers after 2012, so he might of bite (perhaps unintentionally) the Millers and the Jazz by holding hostage his talents for a much larger payroll with much bigger stars to surround him. The Millers might have the means to commit the kind of money Williams wanted to see spent on the Jazz. In fact I would say they do have that money. But that is not the way they do things. That does not fall into those three criteria. That is not 'the Jazz".

That might be frustrating at times. The Lakers, Celtics, Bulls, Heat, Mavericks and others have shown that success in the NBA can be bought. You can have a parade in L.A. when the Lakers win championships, but don't applaud Kobe. Don't look up to Gasol as the guy that brought L.A. the title again. The addition of Mr. Kardashian and Bynum didn't put the Lake-Show in the driver's seat. It wasn't guts and glory, sweat and blood, or just plain old hard work either. It was a 77 year old fan with a checkbook. It was Jerry Buss. Or Jerry Buss's money.

That seems to be the way things are done right now in the NBA, bye the title for a few years, then let someone else pay for it while you save a few bucks for a few seasons.

Is this what Utahans wants to see happen to the Jazz? Pay the money, get the title? I hope not. I hope they will take the frustration of losing to L.A. 9 years out of 10 in the playoffs so that when that one season happens, the ones like the 97' & 98', Jazz fans can hold their heads high knowing they are fans of a team that does it the way it was meant to be done. When that basket was first hung by Naismith well over a hundred years ago, was a winner intended to be decided by old men with deep pockets, or by young athletes leaving everything they have on the court?

So to the Millers, as a fan, I want to thank you. Not just for bringing the Jazz to a community that had no business hosting a professional franchise at the time, but for playing by the rules in a time when it seems the norm is to pay for top talent without any regard to fair play or respect for the game. Thank you for not bastardizing a team game with a super-star first mentality, and for not fully manipulating true competition with an inflated "super team".

I would rather never see a championship com to Utah in my lifetime, than to see a sweaty wad of money leading the parade down John Stockton Avenue.

Jazz Trades: Williams today, Harris tomorrow? ...A.K. all week.

As I sat surrounded by what seemed to be the visitor’s section for Golden State, I witnessed something that has not happened in my lifetime; the Jazz completed their worst home court losing streak since 1982.

If it hadn’t of been for the dry humor of my wife trying to convince me to steal the recently purchased Jazz ball from the pre-teen next to me, and then giving it to her to hurl at someone’s head, I might not of made it through the historic lose.

With a cool head from my wife’s humor, a good night’s sleep, and a much needed break ahead, I can calmly present what I will be using as therapy for the next 7 days… ESPN’s NBA Trade Machine.

1st trade: We found him, let’s get him back! (Submitted by: Ice-Man)

This is the trade to get Wes Mathews back! Giving up two pieces for “the one that got away” seems like a lofty price… until we saw Wes’s first game as a Blazer.

So consider this the Sportscave crew standing outside of Mathew’s house in the rain holding a boom-box blasting “In your Eye’s”.

2nd trade: Half the fat, twice the taste!

I have already presented this one… but I still like it. Especially when you look at the $ saved! Hill is an up & coming guy that hasn’t really had a fair shake in the league yet… put him in our rotation, shake the hell out of him, and see what comes out!


Lee is the most under rated, under used, under paid wing I can think of… If he is on this Jazz team, he shows his value and we have a good problem in a few years; Utah will have to pay him the big bucks to keep him!



3rd trade: “The big boy reset button” trade.

This is the one. This one hit’s the reset button on your old, grey Nintendo. You have gotten pretty far with this group, but you just can’t beat the last few levels… sometimes frustration kicks in, and in a haste you hit the reset button… S@#T! Mario would roll over in his grave.


After the despair drifts away, a slight amount of hope, excitement, and vision begins to seep in your sleep deprived & over carbonated brain as you see what could be… how you’ll do things differently this time around.

By giving up the talent of D-Will (hard to even think), the pieces that come back are REALLY exciting. Taking back Outlaw convinces N.J. to take A.K., and Harris is a top 10 PG now who could be even a little better in a few years with this team. The key to this is Watson, who let’s you do this because he is such a good back-up.

Kevin Martin is a scorer. End of story. He is average at everything else, but right now, for this team, that works. I think Patterson and Hill speak for themselves. Both will be productive, defensive minded bigs who can chip in a good night of scoring every once in a while as well.

It may take a while for this one to sink in, but I think it is an interesting thought.

So until Feb. 24th, look for me hoping for a trade... maybe.

Williams "Motors" the Jazz in Denver... can he do it against the Thunder

The sun is out, the birds are singing, children are playing, and all is right in SLC.

Oh what a difference a win makes.

Oh what a difference D-Will makes.

By beating the Nuggets in Denver, the Jazz have turned around a massive slump and have reminded Jazz fans what it feels like to have a team that could beat anyone, anytime. 

They may not be favorites, but they can be a long way from long shots. 

"He is the motor." sad a dejected coach Karl, speaking of Williams, after Utah made a statement game out of his Nuggets. That is exactly what it looked like. Williams not only reminded Jazz fans and ESPN what he brings to this team, he reminded Al, Earl, Raja, and the rest of this little band of over achievers of what can happen when you  make sure you are running on all 8 cylinders and then add in an all-star fuel additive. Super charged!

OK, no more car puns.

The Jazz minus Williams, AK, and Okur did everything they could to beat Houston on Wednesday. They came up a few mistakes too many, and one point too short. Dejected and depressed, The Jazz men felt the sting of playing at or close to 100% and still losing. 

Had Mr. Williams not played in Denver, a similar outcome might of happened. Guys played there guts out. Al had a huge night, and still, the Jazz had to have Williams explode with points, assists, and leadership in order for this team to win. Guess what; that's what All-Stars do. The great ones make others play better, lead by example, and are an extension of a coach on the floor. That is what Deron was last night...

 ...inspiration in Nike's. 

Can Utah do it again tonight against OKC

Against Durrant and Westbrook, Utah needs to be at near perfect. That is easier said than done faced up with those two.  

Durrant does almost everything well above average... that's actually the good news. The bad news is he  averages over 12 shots at the line against Utah this year... while connecting on a stupidly accurate 96%. He will spend a lot of time there tonight, especially if AK doesn't play. My advice: run him ragged and beat him up. the man he picks up on "D" needs to never stop moving. With Evans showing a lot of promise the Jazz have a pretty good group that can rotate in to work him up and down the court, making your fouls count and get in his head (for more instruction on how to get in a player's head, please see Harpering or Raja)!!

In my opinion, Durrant is in a fierce competition for "MVP on the Thunder" with Westbrook. Durrant has a slight lead and will probably clam that more often than not, but Westbrook will still a few each night.

He scores like Williams by getting into the paint, and has yet to miss a free throw against Utah this year. Freaky good. His speed and field goal percentage (57% against Utah this year) make him almost un-guardable  when he drives. Fes, Al, and Milsap; let him FEEL you all night. He will shoot a lot at the line... make him wince when he does.

Both are shoot first guys, so expect to see a lot of shots from them. Westbrook doesn't shoot the 3 well or often... Durrant does and does. I would like to see anyone else score but these two. Westbrook hasn't "earned" the double team respect yet like D-Will. Give him the "respect" he deserves! Jump out on him and make him get rid of the ball... just not to Durrant.

Utah seems to have "it" back.  With Earl getting a good helping of PG minutes while Williams is on the court, Al continuing to speed up his offensive decision making, C.J. working Durrant on both ends, and everyone fouling hard (not more), "this" Utah team can win tonight.