Utah Jazz: A Defensive Transformation
The Utah Jazz have made a remarkable leap in their pick-and-roll defense, climbing from the bottom of the NBA rankings last season to the third-best this year. This transformation is not just a statistical anomaly but a testament to strategic changes and player development. Last season, the Jazz allowed 1.044 points per pick-and-roll, a figure that has now dropped to 0.905. This improvement translates to a significant reduction of about 10 points per game, a crucial factor in their defensive success.
Walker Kessler has been instrumental in this defensive turnaround. Among the top 60 pick-and-roll defenders, Kessler ranks sixth, facing about 16 picks per game. His ability to disrupt opponents’ plays has been a game-changer for the Jazz. The improvement isn’t limited to Kessler; John Collins has also made significant strides. Collins has reduced his points allowed per pick-and-roll from 1.07 last year to 0.91 this season, showcasing his enhanced defensive capabilities.
The Utah Jazz may have struck gold with their 32nd pick in the NBA draft, Kyle Filipowski. Standing at 6'11" and weighing 250 pounds, Filipowski brings a unique skill set that could make him a standout player. Initially, I wasn’t sold on him as a top pick, but seeing him in action has changed my perspective. His ability to see the game like a point guard and his instinctual passing make him a valuable asset on the court. Filipowski’s size allows him to pass effectively from the elbow, a strategy currently in vogue in the NBA. This approach is used by teams like the Denver Nuggets with Nikola Jokić and the Sacramento Kings with Domantas Sabonis.
Filipowski’s offensive versatility is impressive. He can score, as evidenced by his 16 points per game at Duke, and he’s not afraid to take it to the rack. His physical readiness is a significant advantage, allowing him to hold his ground and maintain space against opponents. However, his growth won’t be linear, and his defensive capabilities will be crucial as he faces more scouting reports.
The Importance of Passing and Offensive Strategy
One of the most overlooked skills in scouting is passing, and Filipowski excels in this area. His presence on the floor facilitates ball movement, making the Jazz’s offense more dynamic. His ability to pass from the elbow opens up larger passing windows, a crucial advantage over shorter players. This skill is particularly valuable in late-game situations.
Filipowski’s role in the Jazz’s offensive strategy is evolving. The team often runs elbow actions as a secondary option, but recently, they’ve started using Filipowski in the primary role. His ability to hit corner threes and his improved shooting form are promising signs for his development. The Jazz’s offensive variety, led by coach Will Hardy, showcases the team’s adaptability and Filipowski’s potential to become a key player.
LATE GAME WATCH (Exclusive)
Rockets: Go to play late is some combination of Green or Van Vleet pick and roll with Sengun. Problem is they really don’t have any shooters to space the floor and it is really crowded for the driver. They are using Van Vleet as a flair out of the Spain pick and roll.
Pistons: Jalen Ivey had an awful game to close v. the Rockets. Numerous turnovers, out of control drives and mistakes. Veterans are carrying the Pistons in Harris, Beasley and Hardaway. They love to give Cade Cunningham an open side pick and roll and let him over power his man to the basket on the cleared side.
Bucks: I have never seen a team hunt someone the way the Celtics hunted Damian Lillard. Lillard was guarding White who would bring it up and then the Celtics would bring whoever they wanted to have a one on one on Lillard up for a pick and go to work on Lillard. Bucks are going to have to double. Bucks offense has no idea how to use Giannis. One play off the elbow worked, but their is no flow and rhtyhm. Jrue Holliday is amazing. Got stops on both Giannis and Dame
Clippers: Everylate game play is Zubac at the top of the key with a handoff to Harden going to his left hand.
Minnesota: brings Mike Conley back with 2 minutes left but goes till the 2 minute mark without him. miami went zone and really screwed up Minnesota offense.
Miami: Amazing out of bounds play wins it for Miami. Nikola Jokic is really good. Portland might wish they made the move for him.
