Jazz see immediate impact from newly acquired forward Jaren Jackson Jr.
jazz-see-immediate-impact-from-jaren-jackson-jr
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Jazz, determined to accelerate their rebuild, traded for two-time All-Star Jaren Jackson Jr. on Feb. 3 and are already witnessing the benefits.
Jackson, 26, delivered a game-high 23 points in his home debut Wednesday, powering Utah to a 121-93 victory over the Sacramento Kings. Across his first two games with the team, the 2023 NBA Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 22.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists in just 24 minutes per contest.
Head coach Will Hardy said Jackson’s arrival is central to the organization’s plan to return to postseason contention next season. Utah envisions the 6-foot-11 forward forming a long-term pairing with leading scorer Lauri Markkanen, creating matchup problems with their combined size and versatility.
Defensive upgrade
Since Jackson joined the lineup, the Jazz have held opponents to 107.0 points on 39.5% shooting, numbers Hardy credits to the newcomer’s on-court communication. “He’s an elite defensive communicator,” the coach said.
Adapting to a new system
Jackson acknowledged that Utah’s offense—built around constant movement—differs from any scheme he has played in, yet he is embracing the learning curve. “Every day I learn a little bit more,” he said. “I think I can bring a lot to the table.”
Managing minutes
Utah has faced online criticism for limiting Jackson’s and Markkanen’s fourth-quarter minutes during recent road games in Orlando and Miami. The Jazz are balancing player development with the need to retain a top-eight–protected first-round pick in the 2026 draft. Jackson said his focus remains on maximizing whatever time he receives: “You just have to make an impact when you’re in the game.”
Utah, 10th in the Western Conference entering Thursday, believes Jackson’s presence can help shift the club from lottery participant to playoff contender as early as next season.
Source: ESPN
