Utah Jazz Draft Review

Current Roster
PG: Ricky Rubio/Dante Exum/Raul Neto/Nigel Williams-Goss
SG: Alec Burks/Donovan Mitchell
SF: Rodney Hood/Joe Johnson
PF: Derrick Favors/Joel Bolomboy
C: Rudy Gobert/Tony Bradley

2017 Free Agents
Unrestricted
F Gordon Heyward
G George Hill
C Jeff Withey
G Shelvin Mack

Restricted
G Joe Ingles

Who They Drafted
1-12 Donovan Mitchell, PG/SG Louisville2
1-25 Tony Bradley, C North Carolina
2-55 Nigel Williams-Goss, PG Gonzaga
The Jazz traded up, using their own pick and Trey Lyles to get Louisville's Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell is a super-athletic combo guard that makes up for a lack of size with tremendous length. Early in his career, Mitchell was slasher, a shot-creator who aggressively tried to get to the rim, a skill he still has. Where he improved as a Sophomore, and what got him on NBA radars as a lottery pick, is an improved jumpshot. That jumper, which is still developing, is crucial to his game and will make or break his status in the NBA, as it will open up his dribble-drive game and bring more offensive balance to his team. Defensively, Mitchell is best guarding on the ball and can really be excellent in that area, however he'll need to get better off the ball, staying locked in. The Jazz will use Mitchell in both guard spots off the bench, a sub that can score and defend and most close games in the future at either spot, depending on the matchup.
With their remaining first round pick, the Jazz drafted Tony Bradley, a throwback-style center that plays below the rim and eats up rebounds, particularly offensively (Bradley posted an absured 18.7% offensive rebound rate, which would be the best number in the NBA by over a percentage point and a half) but there are questions about what else he can do. Despite being a poor athlete, Bradley has size and length to finish inside, though he may struggle against bigger NBA centers. Other than that, he doesn't have a ton of moves or range and doesn't move well on the perimeter and though he can block some shot due to his length, doesn't project to be a great rim protector. Just 19, Bradley has a lot of developing to do and if he can improve his body or get more skilled, then he could be a valuable backup, mostly due to the fact that he can offensive rebound so well.
Late in the second round the Jazz took an experienced point guard who was one of the most efficient players in college basketball last season. Nigel Williams-Goss, a high level recuit who transfered from Gonzaga, is similar to Utah's second rounder last season, Marcus Paige, in that he is a well-rounded point guard that doesn't have one real standout asset. He could probably do a good job in spot duty but lacks any real upside. He'll probably share time in the G-League with Paige until needed.

What They Need Going Forward
The Jazz need to do whatever they can to bring back Gordon Heyward, it has to be their number one priority, as it will bring the Jazz from surefire playoff team to fringes of making it. If they get Heyward back, the Jazz are pretty much set. If they lose Heyward they will then have to pivot to making sure they don't lose Joe Ingles and then go from their, deciding whether they want to do a soft rebuild or try to keep contending, perhaps moving their assets for a low level star or clearing the room for a Danilo Gallinari-level player.

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2016 NBA Mock Lottery (4/16)

Mock drafts prior to the reveling of the actual lottery and draft order are pretty silly, but since usually the changes are minor, we can at least gain a little insight into what things will look like on draft night and what teams may be thinking. This is what I believe, without any inside information, is most likely to happen at this exact moment subject to massive changes before draft night.

01. Philadelphia 76ers: Ben Simmons, PF LSU

Prior to Sam Hinkie's resignation, Brandon Ingram would have been the obvious choice here, however with Bryan Collangelo now in charge with presumably a mandate to make the Sixers competitive and marketable fast, it seems highly likely they will look to draft a more hyped, popular player who may be more ready to contribute from day one. Simmons is a poor fit, in my opinion, but with conventional wisdom now reigning once again in Philadelphia, Simmons seems likely to be the guy.

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke

While they may be more interested in landing a quote star un-quote in the draft, Ingram is a much more obvious fit in LA, where the Lakers are severely lacking in both defensive players and shooters. Ingram also doesn't overlap positionaly with Julius Randle like Simmons would. If the lottery holds true and it goes Sixers #1 and Lakers #2, I would expect LA to draft whomever Philadephia doesn't draft between  Ingram and Simmons and be completely happy with that.

03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jaylen Brown, SF California

This is the toughest pick to project, based on currant draft standing, because Boston is playoff team without a ton of obvious needs (excluding a true super-star, which you most likely aren't finding in this draft) so where do they go? Dragan Bender is the best prosper available (and the best in the draft, in my opinion) but he isn't a player likely to have an immediate impact and might not even come to the NBA right away. Add to that, the Celtics are sort of piled up in the frontcourt. Jaylen Brown, on the other hand, is also somewhat of a project but fits into the Celtics multiple offense and would be an intruiging 1-2 forward punch with Jae Crowder which would allow Boston to switch everything and be and even more threatening transition team. They could also trade the pick and throw everything off.

04. Phoenix Suns: Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv

A couple of wins late in the season dropped the Suns from the third best odds to the fourth, which could be the difference between getting one of the top tier of three prospects and not. In this scenario, if Boston is unwilling to take a project in Dragan Bender, the Suns could still luck out. After trading Markeiff Morris and now potentially losing Mirza Teletovic and Jon Leuer (backups at best) power forward is an area of longterm weakness in Phoenix. Bender is a stupendous prospect with special potential as a defender and the tools to become a versatile offensive player, just what Phoenix needs.

05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky

Aside from power forward, the Timberwolves have their starting five set (barring a Ricky Rubio trade) and with no power forward that really fits this draft range, they can look to something else they need: shooting and shot creation. Murray is an excellent shooter and while the jury may be out on his ability to consistently create at the next level, he has a good offensive feel and may fit better in the NBA where more space is available. If they trade Ricky Rubio, Kris Dunn could be and option, and if they believe a power forward is necessary, a versatile offensive player like Henry Ellenson could be an interesting fit with Karl-Anthony Towns.

06. New Orleans Pelicans: Kris Dunn, PG Providence

While Jrue Holiday, point guard, is one of New Orleans' two actually good players under contract, both he and Kris Dunn are big enough and have the defensive chops to defend shooting guards (in fact, Dunn is actually bigger than Eric Gordon) and Holiday can shoot well enough to make this pair work. Dunn is a great defenive prospect, a killer in transition, and a willing half-court player that should flourish as a third option in the more spacious NBA. Buddy Hield, as a more traditional shooting guard, is another option, as is a potential Ryan Anderson replacement in Henry Ellenson.

07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette

The Nuggets have a ton of big men, but none of their power forwards are particularly skilled offensively (unless you include Danillo Gallinari who is injured often and possibly trade-bait). Henry Ellenson is a versatile offensive player with potential as a three-point shooter. He is a project defensively, but Mike Malone is known to get the best out of such players. They have depth in most spots on their roster and could go in many ways but Ellenson makes a lot of sense as a compliment to Kenneth Faried at power forward.

08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma

This is a marriage of player and team that just needs to happen. Hield could (foolishly) go earlier but if he is there, or if the Kings can acquire him by trade, it is something that would be perfect for them both on and off the court. Hield is exactly the type of player Sacramento needs, a knockdown three point shooter that is terrific moving off the ball. He is also a high character individual and tireless worker, the type of leader that the Kings desperately need. Make it happen, Vlade Divac (but don't give up too much)

09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Marquese Chriss, PF Washington

The Raptors love taking high-upside projects, and while their thinking may change this picking this high, I doubt it. Marquese Chriss, with work, could seriously be their starting power forward of the future, something they aren't particularly set up with at this point. Chriss has the potential to be a dynamite offensive player that can shoot and drive. He is a raw player that very much needs to learn the game, but the tools are off the charts.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Jakob Poeltl, C Utah

Another perfect marriage of player/team. Since they made the change from Zaza Pachulia to Greg Monroe, the Bucks haven't been the same team. The need someone who an excell on the defensive glass, protect the rim, and set good screens, which are all areas that Poeltl could excel at. Monroe, if he isn't traded, could still be gone after next season, which would open the door for Poeltl full time. Last season, Milwaukee brought Monroe of the bench and started Miles Plumlee. Poeltl could do the same, and be much better than Plumlee.

11. Orlando Magic: Ivan Rabb, PF California

The Magic have big plans when it comes to adding free agents this summer, so they could trade this pick to save space or draft a stash prospect, however if they do go with a prospect that could play this year for them, power forward is an area they could address. Aaron Gordon is already blossoming into a star, but Jason Smith also played heavy minutes last season as his backup, which translates to you need another backup power forward, particularly since Smith is a free agent this summer. Ivan Rabb is a very solid player, smart and skilled. He is limit in some ways, but should be a good option for rebounding, defense, and some inside-out scoring off the bench.

12. Utah Jazz: Demetrius Jackson, PG Norte Dame

Even if Dante Exum returns to full strength next season, Utah will still need a point guard because the poo-poo platter of Shelvin Mack, Raul Neto, and Trey Burke just isn't going to cut it for a playoff team, especially if Exum (who has a ways to go himself) isn't back to full-strength. Demetrius Jackson is better than all those other options, a dynamic athlete that has a long track record of excellent outside shooting and tough defense. He could backup Exum or play alongside him, due to Exum's excellent size. Utah needs a point guard that can create, defend, and shoot, not just one of those things.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks

With their second first round pick in the draft, the Suns can look to shore up another area of need, small forward (or power forward if they draft, say, Jaylen Brown with their earlier pick). With what appears to be three high-usage guards on the roster, the Suns need players to go with them that don't need the ball to be valueable. Timothe Luwawu looks to be that type of player, a versatile defensive wing with potential in that area as well as shooting the ball, where he has made great strides of late, however his low release is still somewhat of a question mark.

14. Chicago Bulls: Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State

This seems like the kind of pick the Bulls seem to like. A decorated four year college player that can probably play very soon in his young career. Denzel Valentine is not without his faults (defense) but he seems like an ideal fit in Fred Hoiberg's offense because he is a knockdown shooter with tremendous vision and passing ability. Another option is fellow Spartan Deyonta Davis, who could be the first step in rebuilding the beleaguered Bulls frontcourt, once a source of so much depth, not possibly losing both Pau Gasol and Joakim Noah. The same could be said about Domantas Sabonis, who is the kind of skilled player that could excel under Hoiberg.

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2015 Draft Review: Utah Jazz

2015-16 Depth Chart 

PG: Dante Exum/Trey Burke/Bryce Cotten

SG: Alec Burks/Rodney Hood/Olivier Hanlan

SF: Gordon Heyward/Elijah Millsap/Chris Johnson

PF: Derrick Favors/Trevor Booker/Grant Jerrett

C: Rudy Gobert/Trey Lyles/Jack Cooley

2015 Free Agents

SG Joe Ingles (RFA)

F Jeremy Evans

What They Did On Draft Night

Drafted Kentucky power forward Trey Lyles 11th overall

Considering how much depth and talent Utah has on its roster, taking a shot on a developmental player like Trey Lyes make sense. Lyles isn't a raw player at all, he just needs some time to iron-out the inconsistencies in his game, time he should be able to get in Utah. The Jazz said they envision Lyles as a stretch-four, which is ironic considering right now he is most effective posting-up, moving off the ball, and diving to the basket. Shooting is the lynchpin to Lyles game, his stroke looks very good, but the results were poor during his one season at Kentucky. In high school he shot very well up to 17-feet, but there is no guarantee that the shot develops, leaving the Jazz with a crafty but limited scorer without the athleticism to be an above-average defender. That's not a great return from a lottery pick. However, Utah has done well with all their young players in recent years and Lyles stroke is solid.

Drafted Boston College combo guard Olivier Hanlan 42nd overall

The Jazz went for a more ready-to-contribute option in the second round, drafting a combo guard that should be able to provide quality depth backing up both guard spots. Hanlan is a well-rounded, score-first offensive player that can distribute well enough to occasionally pass as a point guard. Utah's offense frequently plays through Gordon Heyward uses a lot of ball-movement, so Hanlan can fit in a point guard despite not being a pure distributor. Hanlan's ability to both drive and shoot is a nice option to have off the bench, someone who can get hot and carry a second unit every once in a while without completely being a gunner.

What To Do Next?

Utah probably has the deepest roster of promising young talent in the NBA, so there isn't a ton they really need to do this offseason. One area of need is a back-up small forward, preferably one that can shoot. Mike Dunleavy is still a great shooter and would inject a little age and experience to a very young core. Marco Belinelli would also be an ice fit with what Utah wants to do, as would Jared Dudley, who could also play some stretch-four.

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2015 Draft Preview: Utah Jazz

2015-16 Depth Chart 

PG: Dante Exum/Trey Burke/Bryce Cotten

SG: Alec Burks/Rodney Hood

SF: Gordon Heyward/Elijah Millsap/Chris Johnson

PF: Derrick Favors/Trevor Booker/Grant Jerrett

C: Rudy Gobert/Jack Cooley

2015 Free Agents

SG Joe Ingles (RFA)

F Jeremy Evans

2015 Draft Picks

1-12

2-12(42)

2-24(54) via Cleveland

Team Needs

Utah is in a great position, they are quite frankly stacked up and down their roster with young players who are good now and have plenty of room for growth still. If Utah has a need, it is for some depth and shooting in their frontcourt. There aren't many better 3-4-5 combinations in the league tha Gordon Heyward, Derrick Favors, and Rudy Gobert but behind them only Trevor Booker is a sure-fire contributor. Neither Favors nor Gobert is a threat from the perimeter, so finding a big that can space the floor and play alongside either starter would allow them to give more diverse looks and create space for their offense. If Utah does decide to look more at backcourt players, I'd expect them to target players who can make outside shots and move the ball, two tenants of coach Quinn Snyder's offense.

Potential Fits

This is probably the case with every team because what he offers is so valuable, but Wisconsin's Frank Kaminsky would be ideal for this team. He could play next to both Gobert or Favors, space the floor and keep the ball moving. I could also see Utah going with upside and drafting Texas center Myles Turner; he will take longer than Kaminsky but has a higher defensive potential. Turner would absolutely be a luxury pick, but Utah needs depth at his positions and could use his jumper in short stretches off the bench as they bring him along slowly. Having three talented bigs is not a problem. As far as guards go, Kentucky's Devin Booker would be a logical fit; he can really shoot and is a smart player who will keep the ball moving. Because they have no glaring needs, Utah could also just draft whomever they believe is the best player regardless of position or look to trade the pick for a veteran. 

Mock Draft

12. Myles Turner, C, Texas

42. J.P. Tokoto, G/F North Carolina

54. Vince Hunter, PF, UTEP

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Utah Jazz Draft Review

5. Dante Exum, G Australia (6-6, 196)

I thought Exum was one of the three plays who had a chance to be a superstar on both ends of the court, so for the Jazz to get him at 5, especially after falling out of the top 4, is a huge win for the a excellent franchise that has fallen on hard times recently. Exum really is a player who could help turn the franchise around and become a star who attracts others to come play with him due to his versatile offensive game, high IQ, and unselfishness. I love the pairing of Exum and Trey Burke because both are intelligent players who can equally score or distribute. Having both on the floor along with Gordon Heyward will really give the Jazz a variety of offense looks with each able to initiated the offense or play off the ball.

23. Rodney Hood, G/F Duke So. (6-9, 208)

Things fell perfectly for Utah, first getting Exum, then filling a need for shooting with one of the best in the draft with their second first round pick. Hood was never the lottery pick he was hyped to be, but as a shooter with elite size he provides value. Hood needs to improve his defense and his ability to attack with the dribble off closeouts, but nearly 6-9 with 40% three-point shooting ability doesn't come along every day. The Jazz needed a knockdown shooter and got one in Hood, who can make shots from beyond the arc or midrange. With Hood spacing the floor, it should create space for Utah's ball-handlers and big man.

Current Roster

PG: Trey Burke/John Lucas III

SG: Dante Exum/Alec Burks

SF: Gordon Heyward (UFA)/Rodney Hood

PF: Derrick Favors/Jeremy Evans

C: Enes Kanter/Rudy Gobert

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Free Agency + Trade Reviews

New Orleans receives Jeff Withey and Tyreke Evans, who signs for 4 years, $44 Million

Sacramento receives Greivis Vasquez and two second round picks

Portland receives Robin Lopez and Terrel Harris

This trade works out for all sides, with each team acquiring talent that fits their needs. For New Orleans, they get the best player in the deal in Evans, who finally got his game back on track last season. Evans is still a dynamic scorer who can play three positions, but he also needs to learn to play well with others. As a super-sixth man, Evans fits nicely on this roster and the five man group of Evans, Jrue Holiday, Eric Gordon, Ryan Anderson, and Anthony Davis has a lot of versatility and potential. The money is a lot, but New Orleans had to overpay a little so Sacramento didn't match, and they are paying a little for potential as well, but if Evans reverts to his year 2 and 3 performance, this deal could look ugly down the line. Not to be overlooked in this deal is Jeff Withey, who is a better rim protector than Lopez and should be able to basically replace his production at a cheaper price tag, though in a lesser role. The Kings, who needed to move on from Evans anyway, did a good job getting something out of the deal. Not only that, Sacramento got a player perfect for their team and one who should help them rebuild their culture. Greivis Vasquez is a pass first point guard that plays with tremendous passion and leadership, exactly the kind of player Sacramento needs to get the ball to DeMarcus Cousins and Ben McLemore. Also, he is in the last year of his deal, so if things don't work out, there is no long term investment. Also, the second round picks shouldn't be under-estimated in value, it's the best way to get ultra-cheap talent. For Portland, they were able to fill arguably their biggest need by landing a solid, if unspectacular starting center in Robin Lopez, who still has two years left on his deal. Lopez is important because it gives Meyers Leonard more time to develop without the pressure of being a starting player and playing a lot of minutes. All in all, this deal makes every team better, with only New Orleans taking on any kind of a risk.

Charlotte signs Al Jefferson for 3 years, $41 Million

This is one of the weirder signings so far in free agency, but in a lot of ways it makes sense. Charlotte has been unwatchable for quite a while and continue to get worse. If they keep on this path, stinking and taking lottery picks that may or may not pan put, what few fans that still go to games will be fed up. Charlotte needs to put a semi-watchable team on the floor or else they'll risk losing fans and maybe the franchise. However, I'm not sure overpaying Al Jefferson was the way to go. Jefferson is the best low-post scorer in the league, something Charlotte could certainly use, but they're giving a ton of money to a player that isn't a very good defender and who's upside makes you slightly better but not enough sniff the playoffs. Charlotte risks moving into the territory of missing out on top draft picks, but not making the playoffs, somewhere you don't want to be. Jefferson actually fits pretty well on Charlotte however, especially of Cody Zeller can become a perimeter 4 to space the floor for Jefferson in the low post. Bismack Biyombo, as limited offensively as he is, should help some with Jefferson's defensive issues.

Utah receives Richard Jefferson, Andris Biedrins, Brandon Rush, a 2014 and 2017 1st Round Picks and several 2nd round picks

Golden State receives Kevin Murphy

This is purely a salary dump for Golden State, to clear room so they can sign Andre Igoudala. Brandon Rush was a big part of the Warriors 2011-2012 season, but was out all of last season with a knee injury and didn't figure into their long term plans. The Jazz need another 2 guard, and if Rush is healthy will be a solid compliment to Alec Burks, particularly if he keeps up his 41% career 3-point shooting. Biedrins and Jefferson have no on court value and I doubt that either gets any playing time in Utah. All three total $24 Million in expiring contracts, which is the incentive for Utah taking them on. These contracts can be used as trade chips, or kept so Utah can have a ton of cap space next summer. However, this also means that Utah is pretty much punting on this season, building around the core of Derrick Favors, Trey Burke, Gordon Heyward, Enes Kanter and their two draft picks in next years loaded draft, one of which may be very high.

Golden State signs Andre Iguodala for 4 years, $48 Million

After clearing up all that cap space, the Warriors signed Andre Iguodala with the new space. Iguodala is a good fit on this team, as he won't have to be primary offensive player, but can focus on what he does best and really just be a third or fourth scoring option. Iguodala is an elite perimeter defender, capable of guard 1s, 2s, and 3s while also rebounding well for his position. Offensively, Iguodala is an elite finisher, especially in transition, who also has the ability to play point forward do to his ball handling and exceptional court vision. I love the idea of Iguodala with elite shooters in Klay Thompson and Steph Curry because he will be able to create shots for them. When he is on the floor, Iguodala should immediately upgrade the Warriors defense, and if used properly, their offense as well. The biggest issue with this signing is that it means neither Jarrett Jack or Carl Landry will be brought back, leaving them with essential a bench of second year forwards Draymond Green and Harrison Barnes, along with rookie guard Nemanja Nedovic. Andrew Bogut and Curry, two very injury prone players, are without any kind of proven backup. Filling out a solid bench, while also finding a backup point guard and center that can step in and start when needed will be challenging but necessary. One option is trading David Lee for pieces and moving Harrison Barnes into the starting lineup at power forward.

Detroit signs Josh Smith for 4 years, $56 Million

Though it will recieve a lot of criticism, the deal works if it is Detroit's intention is to bring Andre Drummond off the bench, starting Smith at power forward and playing a shooter like Kyle Singler at small forward. That would give them a deadly three man rotation in the frontcourt, and while they couldn't close games with those three on the court, Drummond's free throw problems make it difficult for him to play then regardless. If that's the case, this is still an over pay, but not the worst move in the world. If they intend to play significant minutes of Smith, Drummond, and Greg Monroe on the floor however, I really question it. Playing those three together will cause serious spacing issues and would force Smith, who's biggest problem is he is a bad jump shooter who loves to shoot, into taking jumpers. The risk on this deal isn't as big as when they signed Charlie Villanueva and Ben Gordon, who ended up being unplayable due to on court deficiencies because Smith is still a good player and should remain on for the who length of the contract. The risk is that the pieces won't fit and Detroit won't get the most out of a significant investment.

Milwaukee signs O.J. Mayo for 3 years, $24 Million

The Bucks are continuing their frustrating trend of being stuck in the middle of bottoming out to re-build and being any kind of serious contender. In the past 5 years, Milwaukee has won 38, 31, 35, 46, and 34 games and actually done a good job drafting, but never getting a real franchise changer because they always pick in the late lottery/mid-first round. Signing O.J. Mayo seems to be putting them into a holding pattern once again. I actually really like Mayo as a player, provided he is put in the right role, but what is the upside here? Mayo isn't going to make them go enough to contend, but will likely help them be too good to get a top pick. Mayo is a better player than Monta Ellis and it isn't close, so Bucks fans can take solace in that. I could be wrong about all this, but the Bucks have been throwing money at players like Mayo, Drew Gooden, John Salmons, and Ersan Ilyasova without much to show for it.

Milwaukee signs Zaza Pachulia for 3 years, $16 Millions

I really hope there is a trade coming, or else this deal makes so little sense. Zaza Pachulia is a solid backup center, but so are Gustavo Ayon and Ekpe Udoh, and for much cheaper. Even if both are traded, this is a lot of money to pay an offensively limited 29 year-old that plays the same position as your best player. I'd say that I don't know what the Bucks are doing, but they have shown a consistent trend of questionable moves and mediocre results.

Atlanta signs Paul Millsap for 2 years, $19 Million

Probably the best signing this offseason, the Hawks get one of the most underrated players in the league for a good price that doesn't lock them in too deep. Paul Millsap and Al Horford will comprise a very skilled and tough pair of bigs who can both score inside and out, rebound, and play above average defense. Millsap will only be 30 when this deal expires, so he's got another big contract in him. I like the direction the Hawks are going, and am a believer in their new coaching staff. My concern with this team is that they struggled last season to draw fouls, fourth worst in the league, and Millsap will only help some with that. They also could use another wing and have the cap space to go get one, I like Andrei Kirilenko here, or Corey Brewer on a lesser deal.

Atlanta signs DeMarre Carroll for 2 years, $5 Million

Another solid move by Atlanta here, getting a good backup wing who plays very hard for a cheap deal. DeMarre Carroll isn't particularly skilled offensively, but he's got a great motor and is a good rebounder and defender. Carroll isn't going to light up the scoreboard or even get much recognition, but his drive and hustle is a good addition to any team. Carroll has overcome liver disease and fought his way into the NBA, and that kind of drive is inspiring to teammates, not to mention the on court benefits of his defense and energy.

Atlanta re-signs Kyle Korver for 4 years, $24 Million

This may seem like a lot of money and years to give to a 32 year-old three point specialist, but this deal isn't as risky as it appears. First of all, Korver is a valuable player who is one of the best shooters in the league but was misused last season, a mistake that the new Hawks coaching staff is unlikely to make. While his one-on-one defense isn't the best, Korver has made himself into a good team defender as well as a good passer. Atlanta's roster still has a lot of remodeling left to be done, but if they want to build around Al Horford and Paul Millsap, shooting will be crucial. The reason this deal isn't as risky as it appears is that Korver is likely to retain all of his skills for most, if not all of his deal. Shooting, passing, and team defense don't rely as much on athleticism, which Korver lacks already anyways, so even at 36 he should be an effective, if slightly over-payed, shooting specialist.

Dallas signs Jose Calderon for 4 years, $29 Million
I don't think this is what Mark Cuban had in mind when he blew up a Championship team with hopes of landing a superstar in subsequent years. After whiffing on both Deron Williams and Dwight Howard, the Mavericks are left with Dirk Nowitzki and a bunch of ageing parts. What makes this signing so weird is that Jose Calderon is just another ageing piece. The Mavs have two options: trade Nowitzki and bottom out in a very good draft year with a big free agent class next or go after the rest of this free agent class, the likes of Andrew Bynum, Monta Ellis, Corey Brewer, Jarrett Jack, or try to get a restricted free agent like Nikola Pekovic. This signing seems to point in the direction of the latter, as the Calderon alone isn't enough to make Dallas a contender, but also unnecessary for a team attempting to blow it up and rebuild. With Calderon turning 32 before the season, this deal is risky for Dallas, but like Korver in Atlanta, Calderon should be able to keep around the same level of performance. Calderon isn't a good perpetrator or defensive player anyways, so it's not like he'll lose that with age. What he does bring to the table is tremendous shooting, passing, and an extremely low amount of turnovers. Calderon and Nowitzki should be deadly running pick and pop, and on the court this deal makes sense, just not for the overall direction of the franchise.

Dallas signs Devin Harris for 3 years, $9 Million

Dallas appears to be attempting to fill out their roster to at least be competitive this season. Devin Harris, once a promising star, has really fallen off in recent years and isn't a starting caliber player anymore. I do like his fit as a slashing two guard off the bench, and should be a good change of pace to the steady Jose Calderon, who isn't much of a penetrator. I think Dallas should blow it up, but if they want to go in another direction, this is a solid value signing.

New York re-signs J.R. Smith for 4 years, $24.7 Million

After flirting with the Bucks and others, J.R. Smith the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, re-signed with the Knicks. I don't hate J.R. Smith as a player, nor do I think this is an unreasonable contract for what Smith provides. However, I hate his fit on the Knicks and I don't like the direction they are going with this roster. Giving prominent minutes to two ISO-heavy offensive players who don't play defense isn't how you win in today's NBA. New York is making themselves into a middle of the pack Eastern Conference team that maybe gets past the first round in the playoffs, but will be exposed by the top teams in the league on both ends of the floor. 

Cleveland signs Jarrett Jack for 4 years, $25 Million

This is an interesting deal because it is pretty big money for a team to give player who is best with the ball in his hands and plays the same position as the team's best player, who also is best with the ball in hands. I understand the rational behind the signing though, putting Jack in that super sixth man role who can backup either guard spots, on both ends of the floor. Also, and perhaps most importantly, it gives Cleveland a starting caliber point guard who can step in when the often injured Kyrie Irving has to miss time, much the same way Golden State used Jack to backup Steph Curry. Misguided or not, Cleveland wants to make a run at the playoffs, something which Jack will certainly help with. One other concern, Jack will be 30 at the start of the season, so this deal could go south towards the end.

Sacramento signs Carl Landry for 4 years, $26 Million

With a new lease on life in the city of Sacramento as well as finally having new ownership and management, the Kings are ready to change their image and turn the franchise around. Drafting Ben McLemore and Ray McCallum, then trading for Greivis Vasquez was the first step, now they have brought in an underrated forward who has played for the organization before. Carl Landry is a hard working, high quality big man who is comfortable coming off the bench or starting. When ever he comes on the floor, Landry brings efficient offense, rebounding, toughness, and leadership, all things that the Kings can use. It might take a couple years to establish a new culture in Sacramento, but this is a good start.

New York re-sign Pablo Prigioni for 3 years, $1.5 Million
As much as I dislike the Smith deal, I like this one for New York. When you put two ball-stoppers like Smith and Carmelo on the floor, it's important to have ball movers on the floor, which is exactly what Prigioni provides. He is already 36 years old, so I doubt he plays out the length of this contract, while the threat of decline is minimal due to the style of Prigioni's game and his current age. The other think Prigioni brings to the table is three point shooting, when you can actually get him to shoot, he shot 40% from 3. This will be important for floor spacing, especially since Steve Novak was traded.

Houston re-signs Francisco Garcia for 2 years, $2.6 Million 

There was some market for Francisco Garcia, so the Rockets did well to him bring back. Garcia is a veteran, do-it-all forward with some good shooting ability, which will be crucial with Dwight Howard on the floor. What might have appealed most to Rockets about Garcia was his performance in the playoffs last season, where he defended Kevin Durant better than any other Rocket and shot a blistering 46% from 3. This signing was important because Houston was unable to re-sign Carlos Delfino, so Garcia will serve as the primary backup wing, barring another move by Houston.

Indiana signs Chris Copeland for 2 years, $6.2 Million

The Pacers get one of the best, sneaky good signings of the off season by bringing in Chris Copeland to continue to bolster the bench. The bench for Indiana last season was abysmal, but now with the addition of Copeland, C.J. Watson, and the return of Danny Granger, this has become a strength. Copeland is a terrific offensive player who can play either forward position and really light it up, averaging a 8.7 points in just 15.4 minutes a game. I imagine he'll serve as David West's primary backup, bringing an added dimension of 3-point shooting to the team when he is one the floor: Copeland shot 42% from 3 last season.

New Orleans re-signs Al-Farouq Aminu for 1 year, $3.74 Million

I am suprised that Al-Farouq Aminu, who is coming off his best season as a pro and is only 22 years old, didn't have more of a market this offseason. As long as you know Aminu's limits as a player, he can be very useful. Aminu is not a skilled offensive player, he struggles shooting and dribbling, but is a very good finisher, particularly in transition. Where Aminu adds value is on defense and the glass, he is huge for a wing player and with terrific length and athleticism while learning more and more how to play NBA defense. With all the creators New Orleans has on the perimeter, plus Anthony Davis and Ryan Anderson inside, Aminu won't have much pressure to produce offensively, other than what is created for him.

Portland signs Dorell Wright for 2 years, $6 Million

Like the Pacers, the Blazers continue to bolster their bench, which was a significant weakness for them last season. The Thunder also were reported to be after Dorell Wright, so I am surprised Portland were able to get him for such a good value deal. Wright is a classic 3-and-D wing player who's value is based on his shooting and defense, both of which are above average. Wright doesn't do a whole lot else, and isn't super efficient scoring in between the arc and the rim, but as a back up who can spread the floor and has the size at 6-9 to defend bigger wings, Wright has value.

Los Angeles Clippers re-signs Matt Barnes for 3 years, $11 Million

The Clippers have done a great job finding shooters and wing players, but the still need to find some bigs and grit players. Matt Barnes is a combo forward who may end up being Blake Griffin's primary backup. Barnes is a decent shooter, but where he provides his real value is defensively, on the boards, and working off the ball. He is a good defender who can guard 3s and more 4s, while offensively he's one of the best cutters in the league. The Clippers are putting together a solid, deep roster for a title run, however they still need a couple more bigs.

Los Angeles Clippers sign Darren Collison for 2 years, $2.8 Million

What a great deal for the Clippers, reuniting Darren Collison with former teammate Chris Paul and giving L.A. their backup. Collison had his best season coming off the bench as a change-of-pace guard, which seems to be his best role in the NBA. With the second year a player option, this is basically a rehab deal for Collison to improve his stock after a disastrous season in Dallas, in which he was benched for Mike James and lost the trust of his coach. If Collison does well, he can opt out and seek a better deal, if not he will opt in and give it another shot.

Philadelphia receives Royce White and the rights to Furkan Aldemir

Houston receives future draft considerations

In another attempt to clear mor cap space, the Rockets have parted ways with the very talented and unique Royce White. White, drafted 16th overall last draft by Houston, has yet to play a minute of NBA basketball, but is better known for his public clashes with Rocket's management. White is a huge point forward with tremendous court vision and passing skills. He can also score in the high and low post and rebound. Philadelphia is a second, and perhaps last chance for White, who needs to prove he's valuable enough as an NBA player for teams to deal with the other issues. Furkan Aldemir may never play in the NBA but is noteworthy because of the high level of motor and intensity he plays with as an undersized power forward.

San Antonio signs Marco Belinelli for 2 years, $5.6 Million

Any time the Spurs sign a player it requires a second look due to their success rate with free agents and Greg Popovich's ability to get the most out of players. Marco Belinelli is up and down, seemingly from game to game, where he'll be on fire one night and missing wide open shots the next. This is a low risk deal for the Spurs, as Belinelli will be their third strong shooting guard. However the upside is that he plays well enough for Manu Ginobili to get plenty of rest during the regular season, in preperation for the playoffs.

Cleveland signs Earl Clark for 2 years, $9 Million

This is basically a one year "show me" deal, as the second year is a team option. Earl Clark had a lot of offensive potential coming out of college, but hasn't ever really been able to put it all together on that end of the floor. However, as a 6-10, 225 with long arms he has the ability to be a very good wing defender, which will presumably be the role Cleveland has envisioned for him. If he delivers on that end or improves his offense, they can pick up the option, if not, they won't have lost much.