How do you upgrade this team?

[zero24gravity]

Starting PG, Sexton, spend 31 minutes on the court against the Blazers and collected zero AST on his scoresheet. Amazing how he could pull that off!

Conclusion: he is no PG.

I'm not arguing that Collin is a pass-first PG, but pulling one stat in one game and saying it creates a "Conclusion" is far from an accurate way to make a decision, IMO. If you're only using assists as a measuring stick, then at least be fair with the stats. His last 7 games have been; 12, 7, 5, 6, 6, 5, 0. That's nearly 6 apg (w/ 2.6 TO's) over that stretch.

Again, I'm not arguing he's a great floor leader (he has other strong qualities), but let's at least give him credit for making attempts to go out of his comfort zone and share the ball.

With that said, I'm looking forward to when Conley gets back on the floor. I think the issue with the position has been more about the back-up PG minutes being lost (THT and JC are even worse "point guards" than Sexton), and decision making in crunch time, which will be solved with Mike back in the line-up.

[FranchisePlayer]

Starting PG, Sexton, spend 31 minutes on the court against the Blazers and collected zero AST on his scoresheet. Amazing how he could pull that off!

Conclusion: he is no PG.

I'm not arguing that Collin is a pass-first PG, but pulling one stat in one game and saying it creates a "Conclusion" is far from an accurate way to make a decision, IMO. If you're only using assists as a measuring stick, then at least be fair with the stats. His last 7 games have been; 12, 7, 5, 6, 6, 5, 0. That's nearly 6 apg (w/ 2.6 TO's) over that stretch.

Again, I'm not arguing he's a great floor leader (he has other strong qualities), but let's at least give him credit for making attempts to go out of his comfort zone and share the ball.

With that said, I'm looking forward to when Conley gets back on the floor. I think the issue with the position has been more about the back-up PG minutes being lost (THT and JC are even worse "point guards" than Sexton), and decision making in crunch time, which will be solved with Mike back in the line-up.

Obviously the conclusion was to provide little bit more of discussion in here. It's not too crowded in here...

Ironically, I see people changing their opinion of Sexton based on those games you mentioned. Not much of a sample size either.

I've seen him play before and either he's slow to learn or like I've said it elsewhere, it's just a lack of general basketball IQ that prevents him of being a true PG. He's like a poor man's Lavine.

Can make the passes if he completely focuses on it but it's not natural to him and he cannot seem to do it consistenty enough and most importantly, as a PG, his play is not making the players around him play better.

How many games the Jazz have won when he's been the starting PG? I call that 6 apg empty calories.

You'd imagine you can't walk away from the court with zero assists as a PG when you play half an hour next to one of the most efficient scorers in the league. I mean, I'd assume that's way beyond an anomaly? Is there stats that provide data of how many times per 100 games a PG leaves the court without assists? I really would like to hear that.

I'm not backing down from my opinion, though. I see a SG, not a PG. To be blunt, I'd trade him to a natural PG every day and twice on Sunday although I'd like to see him play a stretch of 10 games as starting SG.

[Inigo Montoya]

I don't think that PG play is the reason for the recent losses, as I think Sexton has been playing well. He's scoring efficiently, shares the ball, and does not force the issue as much as before. After watching the game vs the Blazers, I thought he played well and felt like he probably logged his usual number of assists, and it wasn't until it was pointed out that I noticed he finished the game with zero assists. It happens, but it didn't feel to me like he wasn't sharing the ball. The point about the lack of a backup PG when Sexton is starting does make sense, but I still think the issues are larger than the PG play.

As for Markkanen, as others pointed out, it is ridiculous that he finished with 21 points on 10FGA while Clarkson finished with 24 points on 26FGA. But that's more on Clarkson than it is on Sexton because it's not like Sexton was chucking, he finished with 6-11 from the field. Markkanen needs to learn how to demand the ball instead of passively letting others jack up shots when he's the most efficient player and the best scorer on the team, and Hardy needs to put an emphasis on getting him the ball more and call some plays for him.

As for how to upgrade this team, as long as we don't have a franchise player, upgrading the roster is futile.

[FranchisePlayer]

I don't think that PG play is the reason for the recent losses, as I think Sexton has been playing well. He's scoring efficiently, shares the ball, and does not force the issue as much as before. After watching the game vs the Blazers, I thought he played well and felt like he probably logged his usual number of assists, and it wasn't until it was pointed out that I noticed he finished the game with zero assists. It happens, but it didn't feel to me like he wasn't sharing the ball. The point about the lack of a backup PG when Sexton is starting does make sense, but I still think the issues are larger than the PG play.

As for Markkanen, as others pointed out, it is ridiculous that he finished with 21 points on 10FGA while Clarkson finished with 24 points on 26FGA. But that's more on Clarkson than it is on Sexton because it's not like Sexton was chucking, he finished with 6-11 from the field. Markkanen needs to learn how to demand the ball instead of passively letting others jack up shots when he's the most efficient player and the best scorer on the team, and Hardy needs to put an emphasis on getting him the ball more and call some plays for him.

As for how to upgrade this team, as long as we don't have a franchise player, upgrading the roster is futile.

You can set the rhythm for the offense even if you don't actually log the decisive assist on the scoresheet. I don't see that quality in Sexton.

Conley has that but he's about to get replaced sooner or later so sooner or later this team does need an actual PG.

Even if you think upgrading this roster is futile and you want the team to fail and catch Wembanyama, STILL this team needs a new (starting) PG. It's just inevitable since we currently have none?

Obviously it's Hardy who needs to stop giving green light to Clarkson.

[Inigo Montoya]

Even if you think upgrading this roster is futile and you want the team to fail and catch Wembanyama

Catching Wembanyama sounds like an STD.

"What's wrong with you?"

"I need to go to the doctor, I caught a Wembanyama."

[mg]

I don't think that PG play is the reason for the recent losses, as I think Sexton has been playing well. He's scoring efficiently, shares the ball, and does not force the issue as much as before. After watching the game vs the Blazers, I thought he played well and felt like he probably logged his usual number of assists, and it wasn't until it was pointed out that I noticed he finished the game with zero assists. It happens, but it didn't feel to me like he wasn't sharing the ball. The point about the lack of a backup PG when Sexton is starting does make sense, but I still think the issues are larger than the PG play.

As for Markkanen, as others pointed out, it is ridiculous that he finished with 21 points on 10FGA while Clarkson finished with 24 points on 26FGA. But that's more on Clarkson than it is on Sexton because it's not like Sexton was chucking, he finished with 6-11 from the field. Markkanen needs to learn how to demand the ball instead of passively letting others jack up shots when he's the most efficient player and the best scorer on the team, and Hardy needs to put an emphasis on getting him the ball more and call some plays for him.

As for how to upgrade this team, as long as we don't have a franchise player, upgrading the roster is futile.

Clarkson, Beasley, THT, and Simone shot 2 for 19 from 3 in that Blazer game. Not really much chance for any of our guys to get assists if we can't shoot the ball.

I think Sexton has made strides this season. He's making better decisions with the ball. That's really all you can ask. Obviously Mike has been in this league forever and is going to garner more respect in terms of getting the players into their sets especially in the 4th quarter of close games. Our offense has looked good even with Conley out it's just closing out the games where we have struggled.

As much as I like Lauri still think this team needs an alpha #1 guy. Someone who can get to the FT line in the 4th quarter.
They are missing a 6'-8" wing or maybe an upgrade over Vandy. Imagine a Siakam type in that Vando role.
The Celtics got to the Finals last year with Smart as their starting PG. Sure if they can add another bigger PG with some height (there are a few in the next draft) to ultimately replace Conley that would be nice but it's not at the top of the "need" list for this team. Ainge drafted both Brown and Tatum for the Celtics so going to assume finding that athletic wing for the Jazz is probably his top priority.

[BigJimFinn]

I think Sexton has made strides this season. He's making better decisions with the ball. That's really all you can ask. Obviously Mike has been in this league forever and is going to garner more respect in terms of getting the players into their sets especially in the 4th quarter of close games. Our offense has looked good even with Conley out it's just closing out the games where we have struggled.

As much as I like Lauri still think this team needs an alpha #1 guy. Someone who can get to the FT line in the 4th quarter.
They are missing a 6'-8" wing or maybe an upgrade over Vandy. Imagine a Siakam type in that Vando role.
The Celtics got to the Finals last year with Smart as their starting PG. Sure if they can add another bigger PG with some height (there are a few in the next draft) to ultimately replace Conley that would be nice but it's not at the top of the "need" list for this team. Ainge drafted both Brown and Tatum for the Celtics so going to assume finding that athletic wing for the Jazz is probably his top priority.

The offense has only looked good at times, when the game gets into high-tempo transition chaos, where the Jazz guards can thrive. In slow half-court offense the Jazz without Conley really haven't looked good, other than getting hot from 3 occasionally, and the lack of execution becomes a huge problem in clutch minutes, because Jordan Clarkson hero-ball is not going to win you many tight games.

PG in this discussion really means "primary ballhandler/playmaker", who no longer is the smallest guard for most good teams. If that guy is also your primary alpha scorer, then you are really cooking because you've got your franchise player, and I agree finding THAT guy would make the biggest leap for this team, but it's not something you can do quickly and easily. For the Celtics, it's Tatum; Smart is not their primary ballhandler, but he is an elite defender. Clarkson and Sexton, well, are not, and I bet the Celtics wouldn't have made the Finals or conference finals with either of them starting.

So, in the big picture it's not the priority, but if you want to make the playoffs rather than draw a ticket for Wemby, getting a reliable backup PG would be the easiest step to upgrade. A solid 3&D wing would also be very useful, since none of the Jazz rotation guards or wings are plus defenders, so Vando has been used to guard the best opposing perimeter threat. A banger/rebounder with real size would help in the games where a big center is killing you on the glass and putbacks, though Kessler adding strength and minutes should be the long-term cure.

[Jammer]

Would you swap 22 year old 6' 2.5" Talen Horton-Tucker for 23 year old 6' 6.5" Cam Reddish?

Even though Reddish was a 2019 #10 pick and Horton-Tucker was a #46 pick, I would not add a 1rst Round Pick into this trade. However, I would throw in a 2nd Round Pick.

Trade ID #7627517 - Trade Checker says it works. Cam Reddish is in the last year of his Rookie Deal and due for an extension this summer.

You have to wonder what Reddish will get on the open market this summer, even though the team with his BIrd RIghts will have the right to match any offer.

[mg]

Would you swap 22 year old 6' 2.5" Talen Horton-Tucker for 23 year old 6' 6.5" Cam Reddish?

Even though Reddish was a 2019 #10 pick and Horton-Tucker was a #46 pick, I would not add a 1rst Round Pick into this trade. However, I would throw in a 2nd Round Pick.

Trade ID #7627517 - Trade Checker says it works. Cam Reddish is in the last year of his Rookie Deal and due for an extension this summer.

You have to wonder what Reddish will get on the open market this summer, even though the team with his BIrd RIghts will have the right to match any offer.

Probably would do it since this team desperately needs a big wing that can keep up with the athletic Kumingas of the world.

With that said THT has a player option for next summer. Not sure if that's something the Knicks would be interested in. Seems they are trying to get off contracts at this point.

[Inigo Montoya]

Probably would do it since this team desperately needs a big wing that can keep up with the athletic Kumingas of the world.

Funny enough, the actual Kuminga of this world isn't exactly setting it on fire or requires much keeping up with.

Spoiler:

2021-22	19	GSW	NBA	SF	70	12	16.9	3.4	6.6	.513	0.7	2.1	.336	2.7	4.4	.598	.567	1.9	2.7	.684	0.8	2.6	3.3	0.9	0.4	0.3	1.1	2.1	9.3
2022-23	20	GSW	NBA	PF	22	2	16.5	2.5	5.2	.474	0.5	1.9	.244	2.0	3.3	.603	.518	1.1	1.5	.727	0.9	2.1	3.0	1.0	0.4	0.5	1.3	2.0	6.5
Career			NBA		92	14	16.8	3.2	6.2	.505	0.7	2.1	.316	2.5	4.2	.599	.557	1.7	2.4	.691	0.8	2.5	3.3	0.9	0.4	0.4	1.1	2.1	8.6

Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 12/8/2022.

[dr0welf]

Would you swap 22 year old 6' 2.5" Talen Horton-Tucker for 23 year old 6' 6.5" Cam Reddish?

Even though Reddish was a 2019 #10 pick and Horton-Tucker was a #46 pick, I would not add a 1rst Round Pick into this trade. However, I would throw in a 2nd Round Pick.

Trade ID #7627517 - Trade Checker says it works. Cam Reddish is in the last year of his Rookie Deal and due for an extension this summer.

You have to wonder what Reddish will get on the open market this summer, even though the team with his BIrd RIghts will have the right to match any offer.

I would take Reddish over THT even though the Jazz office might not. I like the fit of Reddish better on this team.

[dr0welf]

Actually if I look at the Jazz roster and rank from players I least enjoy watching at the top these are the guys that would really help us upgrade if we moved on from them.

1. Gay
2. THT
3. Azubuike

Bolmaro and Potter I haven't seen enough to really have an opinion on. The rest of the roster I'm fine with

[AingesBurner]

Being a fan is odd right now, when we lose I peeved but then realize we will get a better pick!

[AingesBurner]

I would make some under the radar trades; Vando and a pick for OG would be one. I would see what young PG’s are available as well.

[babyjax13]

I would make some under the radar trades; Vando and a pick for OG would be one. I would see what young PG’s are available as well.

We aren't getting OG for Vanderbilt and a mid first, especially because the last thing Toronto needs is another power forward to play out of position.

[mg]

Probably would do it since this team desperately needs a big wing that can keep up with the athletic Kumingas of the world.

Funny enough, the actual Kuminga of this world isn't exactly setting it on fire or requires much keeping up with.

Spoiler:

2021-22	19	GSW	NBA	SF	70	12	16.9	3.4	6.6	.513	0.7	2.1	.336	2.7	4.4	.598	.567	1.9	2.7	.684	0.8	2.6	3.3	0.9	0.4	0.3	1.1	2.1	9.3
2022-23	20	GSW	NBA	PF	22	2	16.5	2.5	5.2	.474	0.5	1.9	.244	2.0	3.3	.603	.518	1.1	1.5	.727	0.9	2.1	3.0	1.0	0.4	0.5	1.3	2.0	6.5
Career			NBA		92	14	16.8	3.2	6.2	.505	0.7	2.1	.316	2.5	4.2	.599	.557	1.7	2.4	.691	0.8	2.5	3.3	0.9	0.4	0.4	1.1	2.1	8.6

Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
Generated 12/8/2022.

That was actually my point. Kuminga is crummy but looked like a star playing against the Jazz because we don't have any big athletic wings on the roster.

[FranchisePlayer]

Actually if I look at the Jazz roster and rank from players I least enjoy watching at the top these are the guys that would really help us upgrade if we moved on from them.

1. Gay
2. THT
3. Azubuike

Bolmaro and Potter I haven't seen enough to really have an opinion on. The rest of the roster I'm fine with

Would you rank our 5-6 regular starters in the order you least enjoy watching? Since if Ainge is ready to move some players, I doubt he'll settle for trading only marginals players.

[bkohler]

Can someone explain the Collins rumors? I don't understand it from the Jazz point of view.

[Inigo Montoya]

Can someone explain the Collins rumors? I don't understand it from the Jazz point of view.

For all we know this is an attempt by the Hawks to create some urgency with other teams that are interested in Collins by leaking that there were discussions with the Jazz about trading him, while in practice what happened is they called the Jazz and offered to trade Collins for Markkanen, and the Jazz said no and hung up the phone. But hey, it still counts as a "trade discussion involving Collins."

[zero24gravity]

Can someone explain the Collins rumors? I don't understand it from the Jazz point of view.

For the record, despite trending down this year, I like Collins. His uncertain role & being perpetually "on the block" all season have to be contributing to his sudden decline. I can't imagine his drop from career 55%/36% to 48%/22% is not due to circumstances, but also may be a way to get him as a "buy low" trade candidate. I can see why the Jazz might be interested in him. Despite it's "youth", the team is still lacking in top-end athletes. Collins is an elite athlete, and at 25 years old, fits in with their timeline. He's also a good rebounder who can score inside and out. With that said, he's a pretty pricey for a 3rd option. (Behind Lauri & whatever player they eventually get to be #1, because that's what they need to contend.)

What the Jazz would need to offer, that the Hawks would want while matching salaries, is more perplexing than Utah's interest, IMO. While Young/Murray/Conley seems like a really strong guard rotation, I don't see the Hawks being in the market for a player at Conley's price tag to play a bench role. Sexton might fit in with Atlanta in a similar role as he plays for the Jazz, but are the Hawks wanting to center their trade of Collins around a backup guard? Seems unlikely to me. The Hawks are first in their conference, so they aren't just looking to get assets/picks at this point. When I look at the Hawks roster, I see a forward-weak roster (AJ Griffin & Onyeka Okongwu are both logging over 20mpg even with Collins on the roster, and while Okongwu may be intriguing, I don't think his lack of shooting is what the Hawks want to pair with Capella for big minutes), so I can't imagine them trading Collins without getting a solid forward in return. What does that leave the Jazz able to offer? Vanderbilt? Olynyk? Rudy Freakin' Gay? Honestly, Olynyk may be the best fit for the Hawks, as they could use his shooting as a big. Moving Kelly would leave the Jazz paper-thin at center, and would mean Kessler becomes the only serviceable center on the team, unless you think Collins (6'9" 235lbs) &/or Vandy (6'9" 214lbs) are capable of playing 20ish minutes a night at center. Still, in this scenario, would something like Olynyk, THT & a protected 1st round pick be enough? Would it need to be Beasley in place of THT? If so, then it starts to get iffy regarding it being in the Jazz's best interest, IMO, as I think Malik is an important piece of the puzzle, as it relates to the teams overachieving so far this year. Maybe if the Hawks throw in Kaminsky or Forrest to help round things out? I don't know. The rumors may be a smoke screen by the Hawks to drum up interest. Maybe the Jazz have inquired, maybe they haven't. What I do know is that Lauri isn't being traded for Collins... I'd put money on that!