The Utah Jazz have entered the 2024 offseason with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. After a season marked by mixed results and missing the playoffs, the front office aimed to strengthen the roster through strategic free agent signings. However, the Jazz were not particularly active in the offseason outside of their moves in the NBA Draft. Now that the dust is settling, it is time to evaluate how each signing aligns with the team’s vision and what it signifies for the upcoming season.
The Jazz’ 2024 Offseason So Far
The Utah Jazz exited the 2024 NBA Draft with what is widely regarded as the best draft class in the league. They managed to secure three players who were widely expected to be lottery picks: Cody Williams (10th overall), Isaiah Collier (29th overall), and Kyle Filipowski (32nd overall). Williams, known for his versatility as a wing defender, pairs perfectly with last year’s lottery pick, Taylor Hendricks. At the same time, Collier and Filipowski are seen as valuable additions for the team, offering significant potential and value.
Despite ongoing trade rumors, all signs point to Lauri Markkanen signing an extension and staying with the Jazz. Keeping Markkanen might be a risky move, especially considering that Utah’s draft pick is top-ten protected in their deal with the Thunder. This risk is heightened by the anticipated strength of the 2025 draft class. A more strategic approach could have been to fully commit to a youth movement, leveraging their promising young core by trading Markkanen for a better draft position.
In this context, we will evaluate and grade all the player signings made by the Utah Jazz during the 2024 NBA free agency period.
Re-signing Johnny Juzang
Restricted free agent guard Johnny Juzang has signed a four-year, $12 million contract to continue with the Jazz. Juzang originally joined the team on consecutive two-way deals after going undrafted from UCLA, and he now secures a long-term deal as part of the Jazz’s rebuilding strategy.
Throughout his career with the Jazz, Juzang has played in 38 games. Over two seasons, he has averaged 6.1 points per game and shot 40.2 percent from the field. During the 2023-24 season, he made 20 appearances, including five starts, averaging 7.1 points per game and shooting a notable 41.6 percent from three-point range. He also spent time with the G-League’s Salt Lake City Stars, where he averaged 19.4 points per game across 18 games.
Despite needing refinement in certain areas, Juzang’s potential is clear. If he can improve his defensive skills and playmaking abilities, he could become a key contributor to the team in the future. The Jazz are to be commended for investing in a young player with significant upside.
With this new contract, the 23-year-old Juzang is poised to further develop and play a role in Utah’s rebuilding process. He will join other promising young guards like Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier.
Grade: B
Signing Drew Eubanks
Free agent center Drew Eubanks has signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Utah Jazz. Eubanks, who spent the previous season with the Phoenix Suns, remains in the Western Conference and will now bolster the Jazz’s frontcourt.
This addition strengthens the Jazz’s frontcourt depth, joining players like Walker Kessler, John Collins, and Kyle Filipowski. However, securing significant playing time might be challenging for Eubanks, potentially limiting his impact. Last season with the Suns, Eubanks averaged 5.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in 15.6 minutes per game during the regular season.
Despite not being a star player, Eubanks is a dependable role player who can make contributions in multiple areas. His experience is likely to be valuable for a young team like the Jazz. While he may not be a game-changer, he addresses a specific need and adds important depth to the roster. Considering the low-risk, high-reward nature of the signing, the Jazz deserve credit for this move.
Grade: B
Looking Ahead
The Utah Jazz have entered the 2024 free agency period with a strategic approach aimed at both immediate impact and long-term development. By combining veteran experience with youthful talent, the Jazz have assembled a well-rounded roster ready to compete in the tough Western Conference. The acquisitions of Johnny Juzang and Drew Eubanks are particularly significant as they address specific needs and bolster the team’s overall depth.
As the Jazz gear up for the new season, the success of these signings will hinge on their integration into the team’s system and their ability to deliver consistent performances. While some moves carry more risk than others, the overall strategy seems promising. If these new additions fulfill their potential, the Jazz could make a notable advance, potentially contending for a play-in spot. The front office’s strategic decisions and calculated risks have laid the groundwork for an exciting season, full of potential and renewed optimism for Jazz fans.