Keyonte George: Point Guard or Shooting Guard?
Keyonte George’s role on the court has sparked a lively debate. Is he a point guard or a shooting guard? This question isn’t just about labels; it’s about maximizing his potential and ensuring his growth isn’t stunted. George’s journey has been unique. In high school, he stepped into the point guard role due to a teammate’s injury, but at Baylor, he played more as a forward. Now, with the Utah Jazz, we’re thrusting him into the point guard position, which raises legitimate questions about his fit.
George has the size to play both positions, standing at 6'4", which is slightly below the ideal height for a shooting guard in today’s game. However, his current skill set leans more towards a shooting guard, similar to Anfernee Simons. His ball-handling under pressure and pace are areas that need improvement if he’s to excel as a point guard. Interestingly, George has shown a knack for shooting off the dribble, although his catch-and-shoot percentage needs work to solidify his role as a shooting guard.
Growth and Attitude: A Balancing Act
There’s a concern that playing George out of position might hinder his development. However, I believe the opposite. By learning the intricacies of the point guard role, George is gaining valuable skills that will benefit him long-term. He’s learning how to involve teammates, understand the game from a strategic standpoint, and handle defensive responsibilities, especially with the absence of Taylor Hendricks and Cody Williams.
Some fans have questioned George’s “too cool for school” attitude, but I see a young player dedicated to his craft. Behind the scenes, George is known for his work ethic and commitment to improvement. His body language might not always reflect it, but at 20 years old, it’s understandable. The pressure of performing at this level can be overwhelming, and showing frustration is part of the learning curve.
The criticism of George’s demeanor seems unfair, especially considering his age and the expectations placed on him. While he needs to play harder, he’s already making strides in that direction. His athleticism sometimes makes his efforts look effortless, but he’s learning to push himself further.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Keyonte George’s development and role with the Utah Jazz, tune into the Locked On Jazz podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Jazz Podcast:
- Is Collin Sexton a playoff-caliber rotation player?
- Potential trades and free agency moves for the Jazz
- The impact of tanking on team culture
- Salt Lake Stars’ performances and their implications
- The role of veterans in mentoring young players
