Utah Jazz Quietly Put Together Strong 2023 NBA Draft

There were several big winners on draft night 2023. San Antonio left with the ever-generational Victor Wembanyama, and the Trail Blazers had offensive dynamo Scoot Henderson fall into their lap with the third overall pick.

But one of the quieter drafts saw Utah leaving with three players who could make an impact as early as year one, and also have the potential to blossom into stars down the line.

What at first felt like an odd lottery selection for the Jazz quickly turned into a solid class. They grabbed Taylor Hendricks with their sole lottery selection, a fine pick, albeit not one most had on their radar.

Hendricks, who averaged 15.1 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.7 blocks in a surprise one-and-done season for Central Florida, gained a reputation as a strong potential three-and-D player, but not much else. Thought of to be in between a rebuild and contention, most thought Utah would take a bigger swing with their top pick. But we later saw those swings were saved for picks No. 16 and 28.

Sixteenth overall, Utah grabbed Baylor combo guard Keyonte George, who most had graded as an easy lottery pick prior to a late-season injury that left his stock lower. George is sure to fit like a glove in the league offensively, function as an essential three-level scorer, but will have a harder time sticking in a few other key areas. If he can hone his defense, passing and overall impact, he’s going to have a long and successful NBA career.

On a similar note, the Jazz swung for the fences at pick 28 in taking Ohio State Brice Sensabaugh, who for all intents and purposes may very well be the most naturally gifted scorer in the entire class.

In just 24 minutes per game with the Buckeyes, Sensabaugh poured on 16.3 points on 48 percent field goal shooting and 41 three-point shooting. The 6-foot-6 wing’s defense may not help to keep him on the floor for long stretches, but if he can get to a good solid average, he’s sure to have a nice long career putting the ball in the basket.

Be on the lookout for the Jazz trio to make their mark at 2023 NBA Summer league from July 7 through July 17. Each team will play at least five games in Las Vegas.

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