The Other Block Buster

While New Jersey chased after Carmelo Anthony all season, the surprise acquisition of Deron Williams is probably the better trade.  Here’s a review of all the moving parts.

Only a couple of years ago the Jazz were a team on the rise and a western conference darling. Although the trade of Williams was probably a shock to most fans and media, a closer look might have shown that they’ve been a franchise headed for transition.  After losing several key members of last year’s team (Boozer, Brewer, and Korver) as well as a significant injury to Memo Okra, this year’s team didn’t have the depth, talent, or chemistry to compete with the contenders.  The struggle was obvious and many began to hear murmurs questioning, what the heck is going on?

The strain caused by the new roster lead to another surprise, Hall of Fame Coach Jerry Sloan resigned… a month after signing a two year extension?!  For many this was unsettling. Not only because of the coach’s legendary status but also because of the lack of definitive explanation. Sloan simply said it was time, and it may have been.  Regardless of the organization’s internal politics, losing a great coach in the middle of the season usually doesn’t energize a team struggling to stay in the playoff picture.

Perhaps the most significant factor in sparking the trade is that Deron Williams will be a free agent after next season, and the Jazz were not making headway on negotiating an extension.  After watching last year’s free agent bonanza with Lebron, Bosh, Amare, and Boozer, and the struggles of the Denever Nuggets in dealing with Carmelo, the Jazz decided it was time for Deron Williams to move on too. They were of course aided by the fact that the Melo deal essentially set up their negotiations.

New Jersey now has a franchise player and for their sake they had better keep him in the fold.

Deron Williams…  is a true pass first point guard who can shoot the three, get into the lane, and play strong muscle’m up defense.  Roughly averaging 20 points and 10 assists per game, he will instantly transform the Nets and take control of the show.  His play may not appear as dynamic as some of the other NBA stars, but the reality is that he’s a leader and winner.  New Jersey has to extend or resign Williams to continue its remodeling process.

As for the Jazz their new players and picks should allow them to stay competitive, while building a new core for the future.

Devin Harris… is a dynamic score first combo guard who really flourished in his one and only season sans Avery Johnson, a year in which he made the East All-star team. Although he is quick as lightning in the open court, he has also proven fragile and injury prone throughout his career, missing major stretches with assorted knee and ankle problems. There's no way he really replaces Williams, but not many in the league could.  In Utah, he should fit in nicely with their younger group and average steady numbers.

Derrick Favors… is a kid with upside and Utah has a good track record in the PF’s department.  At 6’10” with touch, Favors should eventually evolve into a solid NBA starter.

2 First Round Draft Picks – Some have claimed that next year’s draft class is not very strong, but a lottery pick is like what it sounds like, a better chance to acquire talent.

While Harris and Favors fill the void this season, the Jazz are working on some new tunes.