Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
The Jazz' preseason roster consists of 18 players, including 13 returners from last season.
One of those players has turned into a star in just a matter of months.
Kyle Korver is a great shooter to most; a heartthrob to some. And, The Ashton Kutcher look-a-like is ready for his first full season in Utah.
Korver has unpacked his bags and is ready to stay in Utah awhile. After coming to the Jazz in December, 2007 and living out of a suitcase, Korver feels like he can finally settle down in his newly renovated condominium.
"I'm ready not to pack my big bag anymore and it's always border line at the airport," he says. "It's killing me at the checkout but it was a good summer."
Picking up Korver was a great move for the Jazz. Before he arrived in Utah, the Jazz started the year 16-16. After his arrival, the team went 38-12 the rest of the regular season.
"I played with four different coaches in Philly and had a bunch of new teammates," Korver admitted. "So, to come into training camp with the same team and same system is a huge benefit for me."
Korver wasn't at his best during the playoffs and learning coach Jerry Sloan's system of defense took time. Now with the team in October Korver is looking for a big full season in Utah.
"He's going to help a lot," Deron Williams said. "[He is] a shooter off the bench and he will give us a lot of energy and spread the defense."
Korver may join several teammates in about 45 minutes over at the football stadium. Boise State is hosting Louisiana Tech.
The Jazz will hold an open scrimmage in Boise tomorrow night. Then Saturday afternoon Jazz fans can watch a free scrimmage at EnergySolutions Arena.
E-mail: kaiken@ksl.com