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SALT LAKE CITY — With school just about out for the summer, my kids are delighted just for the simple fact that they don't have any more homework until August. For NBA players though, in particular the Utah Jazz, this is when the homework begins.
I remember those locker room clean out days when you packed everything up that had accumulated over the course of the season, extra shoes, socks, and the rest of that energy bar that didn't get eaten during training camp.
Okay, now that everything's ready it's time to go meet with coach for that exit meeting before my time is my own. They will have a few suggestions as to what some of that time should be used for... getting better!
After watching the Jazz this season here's what I would have had to say to a few players if I were in Coach Ty Corbin's shoes (Now granted, Tyrone wears a size 13 and I'm in an 18, so the shoe doesn't fit that well, but humor me).
Gordon Hayward: We saw some great things out of you this season, but you struggled a bit putting together a string of great performances. This summer I'd like you to really work on hitting the 3 consistently. Shoot 1000 shot a day until it's just automatic. Become a shooting specialist. You are capable of being the best all around player the Jazz have. You just need to believe it and play like it every night. Don't concede because you feel you're not ready to be a leader... you are! Alec Burks: I love your attitude! Don't ever lose it. You showed this season that people shouldn't underestimate you, or maybe they should because it seems to fuel your resolve. Your ability to get on top of the basket and get to the line is exceptional. Work on your short game a little more. Believe in your jump shot. I'd like to see your average double figures next year. Your patience has paid off.
Al Jefferson: Big Al, YOU A BEAST! You were the anchor of the team this season and there's no doubt you want to win. Great job this season sacrificing your game to make others better. Your ability to recognize the double team earlier and search out your open teammates was a great improvement to your game and the system you played in. I think you can block more shots in the defensive end and become one of the league leaders in that stat. You're also one if the greatest salesmen in the world with your pump fake. I buy it every time, but even then, learn how to get to the free throw line with that. It'll add at least 10 - 12 more points to your line. Paul Millsap: Just "Do What You Do!" And then do it again next season.
Enes Kanter: Develop a few more back to the basket moves this summer. Turnaround jump shot, running hook in the lane, face up jump shot. Oh yeah, and don't break any China in the China closet... you're a monster in there!
Devin Harris: What a great second half of the season for you. You were the master at going coast-to- coast, keeping the defense in their heels, you also came on towards the latter part of the season with the pull up 3-pointer, which was a dagger to a few teams. Adding a search dribble to your game (ala, Chris Paul, Steve Nash, Rajon Rondo) would put you at serious point guard status. That would make you a legit scoring point guard who can average a double-double every night in assist and points.
Okay guys now get out there and come back ready for training camp!
