"The Jazz envision Jackson forming a long-term frontcourt partnership with top scorer Lauri Markkanen that promises to create size and length mismatches against many opponents. Jackson, who earned NBA Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023, embraces the idea of playing a pivotal role in helping Utah finally make the transition from lottery team to future playoff contender."
""My goal is to come here and win a championship here," Jackson said before making his home debut for Utah against Sacramento on Wednesday. "I don't really think my mind is geared toward anything else. That's just kind of the mentality that I have. Then when you look at who we have, I really like what I see." Through his first two games since joining the Jazz, Jackson is averaging 22 points, 4.5 rebounds, and three assists while playing 25 minutes per game. His versatility already seems like an ideal fit for how Utah wants to construct its roster beyond this season."
Utah acquired Jaren Jackson Jr. from Memphis on Feb. 3 to accelerate the franchise's rebuild and push toward playoff contention next season. The Jazz plan to pair Jackson with Lauri Markkanen to create frontcourt size, length, and playmaking advantages that challenge opponents' matchups. Jackson, a two-time All-Star and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, declared his goal to win a championship in Utah. Through his first two Jazz games he averaged 22 points, 4.5 rebounds and three assists in 25 minutes. Coach Will Hardy is studying lineup matchups and opponents' defensive assignments. Jackson reports growing comfort despite limited familiarity with the offense.
Read at ESPN.com
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