Story Created:
Nov 5, 2009
Story Updated:
Nov 5, 2009
PK BLOG
One week into the season, it’s already lost. But all is not lost.
Huh?
As the Jazz prepare for tonight’s critical game – a must win? – with San Antonio, the chances of winning the Northwest Division are growing increasingly remote. At 5-0, including three road wins, the incumbent Denver Nuggets have established themselves as the clear favorite.
Good for them.
While the Jazz right now may not be in position to win the division, they still have ample time – and ample talent – to play a major factor in the Western Conference. But it must begin immediately, as in now.
After the worst fourth-quarter performance I can ever remember a Jazz-team having, tonight’s game is crucial for this franchise’s well being. Simply put, they’ve got to beat the Spurs.
Here’s a few thoughts:
Carlos Boozer:
These days, the Jazz world revolves around Boozer, the troubled star forward who can’t seem to escape controversy no matter how smooth he sounds in his seemingly rehearsed comments to the media.
To get the fans off his back, Boozer needs to rediscover his confidence. A great player since he first picked up a basketball, the sensitive man must get right between the ears.
Screw the world, he’s got to scream to himself.
The only way to eliminate tough times is to look them straight in the eye and smack them away. It’s up to you, big tattooed fella.
C’mon, C-Booz, it’s time to go New Jersey on all your doubters. And here’s a suggestion to the fans: go Utah on him. Offer support at all costs; after all, your way hasn’t worked so far.
Deron Williams:
Go postal, young man.
Your team, your voice. Demand excellence out of your teammates – and your coaches, for that matter.
Williams has to assert himself, even if it means breaking protocol. This isn’t the Stockton and Malone era, where two voices were louder than one.
With all the Euro’s and young players, along with Boozer’s tenuous situation, leadership falls squarely on D-Will’s shoulders.
AK:
Keep doing what you’re doing.. Now let’s see more of it..
Bagging in the range of $17 million, AK must be more than a complimentary player. While nobody wants to see him crying, he’s got to play with the emotion that can make him one of the league’s most unique players.
Memo:
The prototypical role player, the big Turk deserves credit for trying to diversify his game. But either hoist up a three-pointer or get down on the low block. Don’t take the ball on the perimeter and try to bull your way to the hoop, only to get cut off and be forced to chuck up some wild shot.
Play to strengths, which is the reason you belong in the league. And reserve some energy for the other side of the court.
J-Slo:
If it doesn’t work, fix it. Case in point, Memo guarding Dirk.
And don’t be afraid to go crazy on the refs. We miss the good ol’ days.
He’s coaxed more out of less, and should do the same here.
For all doomsayers, hold off a bit. Drive up to Idaho if the lottery is calling..
Talent wins in this league. Maybe this team doesn’t have championship talent, but there’s more than enough for 50 wins.
Let’s see Win No. 2 tonight.
