Utah Jazz Preseason Presser

[digiskunk]

As the final game of the preseason quickly draws to a close, members of the media file in accordingly as they await Digiskunk's next press conference. The gaffer, who just finished his inaugural season with an impeccable 50-32 record and advanced to round 2 of the playoffs after defeating the Rockets 4 games to 1, is ready for his next challenge in the PBSL: Repeating a playoff birth.

Digiskunk: Thank you, everybody, for joining us today. We're delighted to tell everybody about the changes we have made since last season, as well as our plans—and goals—heading into this new season.

First and foremost, let's review what we were able to accomplish this off-season. Although we've lost some key players, such as Henry Sims, Lavoy Allen, JJ Barea, Robert Covington, and Devin Harris, we were able to add to our depth by acquiring key players such as Wayne Ellington, Joe Johnson, Eddie Griffin, Charlie Villanueva, Randolph Morris, and Mike Miller. Hell, we even brought back Caron Butler! We have utmost faith that these acquisitions will prove very beneficial in the long-term, as many of them can play multiple positions and impact games in a variety of ways. I think it's safe to say that we have more roster flexibility now than ever before; we have more strong big men willing to step up and fill in when necessary, and some new shooters who are ready to light up the scoreboard.

We also have a newcomer—Thomas Elliott, who we drafted in the first round of the draft—to share duties at the small forward and power forward position. We have high aspirations for this particular player heading forward; he's a lean, mean, scoring machine with an appetite for destruction. We think he'll be a nice fit in Utah.

Here at the Utah Jazz, we pride ourselves on being able to win games. And we hope that this roster will lead to a record better than last season's 50-32 record. It may be a long and difficult journey, but we're aiming to accomplish that goal by season's end. This should be an exciting season, so I hope you're all ready!

I will now accept any questions from the media!

[false9]

With a number of contributors over 30 and a hefty repeater tax bill incoming, are you feeling the pressure for a deep playoff run?

[JNR]

GWR: How do you see yourself stacking up in your brand new division?

[digiskunk]

With a number of contributors over 30 and a hefty repeater tax bill incoming, are you feeling the pressure for a deep playoff run?

To answer your first question: We have a number of veterans on the squad, but their age shouldn't really matter, especially when you consider the fact that all of them are on vet-minimum contracts. They'll play a big role on this team, however, that's for sure. With that said, I feel as if we have much to prove this season, and these veterans will prove to be vital if we wish to reach our goal of advancing further in the playoffs. There's always going to be pressure when it comes to playoff scenarios; our first goal will be to reach the playoffs, and then, I hope that we can advance further than we did last season. But a season is full of ups and downs, so I guess we'll have to wait and see!

[digiskunk]

GWR: How do you see yourself stacking up in your brand new division?

That's a very good question, honestly. Everybody has seemingly improved from last season, and I hope you can say the same for us as well. We have more depth now than we had last season, but we lost a primary roleplayer in Devin Harris — a player whose shoes will be difficult to fill. But I really like how our team is looking at the moment. I have a lot of faith in our roster, especially the veterans, who will prove to be immensely valuable as the season goes on.

[PaulyP]

Jon Snow, WSN -
Lets be honest, your team is gonna go as far as one man can carry it and that's clearly PG23. What kind of stat line do you think he'll need in order for you guys to have a successful season? 30 points per game?

[garbageman]

Sham Smith, Bulls.com: As a new GM, what are the most important lessons you learned from your first year in the league?

[WigNosy]

What is Caron Butler's role looking like this year?

[Inner_GI]

If the questions in the presser are answered before Wednesday's sim I'll give the 3 points. (didn't ask questions in other pressers)

[digiskunk]

Jon Snow, WSN -
Lets be honest, your team is gonna go as far as one man can carry it and that's clearly PG23. What kind of stat line do you think he'll need in order for you guys to have a successful season? 30 points per game?

Actually, the Utah Jazz are not a 1-man show. We have multiple contributors; our primary ones being Paul George, Ricky Rubio, Andrew Bogut — and who can forget Caron Butler, the Second Coming of Christ. But to answer your question, we have no doubts that Paul George will be our primary scorer. We're anticipating 25pts, 6 points, 2.5 assists, and 1.5 steals. As long as he reaches these numbers, we believe we're golden.

[digiskunk]

Sham Smith, Bulls.com: As a new GM, what are the most important lessons you learned from your first year in the league?

Be patient! Success doesn't happen overnight. I believe that the role that the bench plays is greatly underrated; they're gonna be key if we wish to succeed!

[digiskunk]

What is Caron Butler's role looking like this year?

He's older now, and he will make an impact, but in less minutes than he saw last season. We love the game that he brings, but his role may be minimized this season because other players will be stepping up!

[Inner_GI]

digiskunk, you can claim 3 points for your presser.

[ballsohard]

You were a new GM that 90% of the league thinks got taken advantage of with the Rubio trade. in your heart of hearts, if you had to do it again would you?

[IamQuailman]

You were a new GM that 90% of the league thinks got taken advantage of with the Rubio trade. in your heart of hearts, if you had to do it again would you?

Wrong year