Can Boozer lead?

[jazzfan1971]

I've noticed that Boozer is doing a terrific job at post game interviews lately. He's saying the right things. He comes across as thoughtful and intelligent. So, I'm wondering if he's got the tools to be a leader for the team. Or if he's just figured out how to talk to reporters. (finally)

That being said, he's had his fair share, and then some, of trouble with reporters.

So, I really don't know what to think. Is he just a two face? Or is he a guy that's starting to get it when it comes to running his mouth?

[Pai Gow]

Honestly, it's hard for me to believe what he is saying right now. People have to remember it is a contract year for him, he has NO choice but to do the right things or he hurts his paycheck next year.

It is perfect though, he hasn't messed up once, he is trying to play defense and he is the most vocal player on the team. I'm still cautious about him though going into the offseason. I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't give the Jazz the time or day to renegotiate a contract with him.

[LjJazzman]

I don't think there is any doubt at this point that he is the "positive" leader of the team. I think hes a great motivator and on the court friend to his teammates.

On the radio a couple months ago there were talking about Boozer and Derons leadership skills. They basically said that Boozer is a leader that wants to be your friend and liked. That Deron would much rather be a leader by being feared rather than liked. Which I completely agree with. Both are needed.

Deron is the Dad of the team, and Boozer is the big brother who all the little brothers go to for advice especially when dad is being too stern.

That being said I do think boozer is two faced tho. As long as we are decent I think boozer is GREAT GREAT GREAT for this team, but if we slip for any reason he disappears.

[jazzfan1971]

What ever happened with him and his wife? Did they divorce or reconcile?

[LjJazzman]

What ever happened with him and his wife? Did they divorce or reconcile?

They are back together and shes at damn near every game. I bet shes been to more games this year then every other year combined.

[JDubJazz]

I've been impressed with Booz this year, but I'm not buying in until next season. He has too many incentives to be good right now. I want to see what he's like after his next contract is on the books. I'm happy that he and his wife could reconcile, and hopefully thats a big reason for his turnaround, but so far in his career its been all about the $$$. Until he proves otherwise, I will remain skeptical.

[BarneyGumble]

Hard to trust Boozer. But its hard to argue his value to a team when he's motivated and healthy. And there's no doubt he's a great leader in games....I can hear him talking to and instructing teammates during games, and I'm all the way in DC!

[seejaydeja]

Booz is just doing what he needs to do to get max money this offseason, and that's fine with me because of what it does for the team. He has been without a doubt the off and oncourt leader of this team throughout the season.

That being said, I think it's going to be a really interesting post-season. Will he lead us in a 7-game series against the Nuggets/Mavs/Lakers? Or will he disappear like last post-season?

[Gothapotamus]

To answer your original question, hell yes he can lead. He can lead probably better than anyone on the team from a cohesive, team builder perspective. And when his game is matching up with his leadership the team is a lot better. Because then it's not just words, it's example and words. Deron is a lead by example guy. He expects that you have the same commitment as he does or STFU. Booze will help build you and bring you along. I like both styles and honestly wish that both could have a little bit more of the others' style.

[Jazzfan12]

How did he disappear last post season? He played easily his best basketball of the season against the Lakers in the playoffs.

[GP]

I've noticed that Boozer is doing a terrific job at post game interviews lately. He's saying the right things. He comes across as thoughtful and intelligent. So, I'm wondering if he's got the tools to be a leader for the team. Or if he's just figured out how to talk to reporters. (finally)

That being said, he's had his fair share, and then some, of trouble with reporters.

So, I really don't know what to think. Is he just a two face? Or is he a guy that's starting to get it when it comes to running his mouth?

Basically this. PR is a huge part of a players image and some players just have trouble with the media. Boozer basically just speaks his mind and that gets him in trouble. I'm sure other players contemplate playing for other teams, but they just know better than to verbalize it. Unlike some people here, I don't find him to be any less genuine than any other player in the league.

[HammerDunk]

I think his change is pretty genuine. I feel like he is being honest more often than not, and I never felt that way last year. I think he is making things work with his family in Utah, and I think he really likes being the big dog here, being fed by Williams.

To me, he genuinely wants to stay in Utah, because he has a very good thing going here.

[Reckless]

He is definitely the vocal leader of the team who plays with passion and a purpose

I don't believe it when I hear that he's just going for the contract. He seems genuine about his comments about the organization.

[MeestR]

for now, i believe in boozer more than millsap, ak, or okur. deron is needed as example, but booz is needed as glue. guys like him are needed on teams or they fall apart.

im not a HUGE boozer fan, but i am seeing his positive influence on the team(this time). his emotions have a big effect on the team whether he wants to believe that or not. some people have the kind of personality that affects others emotions quite easily.