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SALT LAKE CITY — We’ve known for a few days that the Jazz’s latest additions were coming, but now the trade is official and the ink on the contract is dry.
The Utah Jazz introduced new acquisitions George Hill and Joe Johnson to the media Friday morning, and the veteran duo can’t wait to get to work.
“I’ve been around the block,” Johnson said. “I’ve seen pretty much everything, and I’m looking forward to this new chapter.”
Johnson comes to Utah after 15 years in the NBA. A seven-time all-star who has played in more than 100 playoff games, Johnson doesn’t see an end in sight to his career.
“I’ve still got a lot of basketball left, and I’ve got a lot that can help to contribute to this team to be successful,” Johnson said.
He’s also prepared to take on a new role with the Jazz: guiding a young team to reach its potential.
“I can tell these guys about the experiences we’ve been through and what it takes to win on the next level,” he said.
Johnson sees the Jazz and Salt Lake City as a great fit after hearing rave reviews from former teammates Paul Milsap and Marvin Williams.
“I’ve heard so much about Salt Lake, and me being from a small city in Little Rock, I can relate. I think this is my pace, and it’s a new chapter for me. I said, ‘Why not?’"
Hill is also starting a new chapter amid his move to Utah, both on and off the court. He became a father in January and got engaged on July 4.
“She loves it already. I think the view speaks for itself, the city speaks for itself and the way it is so family-oriented,” said Hill, who has reached the playoffs in seven of his eight NBA seasons. “The love we’ve felt since being here for two days is great.”
“Expectations for more than just me are to get to the playoffs. That’s going to be the first thing we mention from day one … we have one common goal, and that’s to win games and get to the playoffs.”
