After a trip to the second round of the playoffs last season, the Utah Jazz have their sights set on a deep playoff run this year. Most of last year’s team will return, led by the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Rudy Gobert, and the runner up in the Rookie of the Year voting, Donovan Mitchell.
Last year the Jazz were one of the most surprising teams in the league. After losing Gordon Hayward in free agency, the Jazz were expected to drop out of the playoff race. Thanks to the emergence of Donovan Mitchell and an elite defense, Utah didn’t miss a beat. Mitchell was truly unbelievable as a rookie, showing superstar potential right away. His ability to score at will, combined with his unselfish, team first attitude, make Mitchell one of the bright young stars in the NBA. Donovan Mitchell will be a can’t miss player in Utah for years to come.
While Mitchell carried the offense, Rudy Gobert is the anchor of the Utah defense. He finally won Defensive Player of the Year last season, an award he could have one in each of the past three seasons. As a dominant shot blocker and an excellent finisher around the rim, the Stifle Tower is undoubtedly one of the best centers in the league.
Rounding out Utah’s starting lineup, Ricky Rubio, Joe Ingles, and Derrick Favors will all play key roles for head coach Quin Snyder. Rubio had arguably his been season of his career last year, which was his first in Salt Lake City. The chemistry he developed with Mitchell, Gobert, and others helped propel the Jazz to their 48-34 record. Rubio’s ability to control the pace of the offense at the point guard position is crucial to Utah’s success. On the perimeter, Joe Ingles has quickly become a fan favorite in Utah. With a high basketball IQ and a great three point stroke, Ingles is the ultimate role player. As for Derrick Favors, his size and athleticism make him the perfect frontcourt complement alongside Rudy Gobert.
The Jazz have some intriguing players coming off the bench. Quin Snyder is excited to see what rookie Grayson Allen can contribute on offense. Allen enjoyed a tremendous 4-year career at Duke, and it will be interesting to see how his skillset translates to the NBA. Jae Crowder, Alec Burks, and Dante Exum will also play significant roles off the bench this season.
The crowd energy at Vivint Smart Home Arena is always one of the best in the NBA. Basketball fans in Salt Lake City bring the noise night in and night out, giving the Jazz a great home court advantage. A Vivint Smart Home Arena luxury suite comes with a private restroom, luxurious furnishings, delicious food and beverage options, HDTV's, bar-style seating and a dedicated suite attendant. Vivint Smart Home Arena suites also come with entry to the arena through a VIP entrance and access to exclusive luxury clubs.
