Jazz PG Keyonte George Moves Up in Rookie Power Rankings
Utah Jazz rookie point guard Keyonte George’s season is starting to trend in the right direction. According to NBA draft analyst Krysten Peek of Yahoo Sports, George is ranked fourth in her latest rookie power rankings. Only Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren, and Brandon Miller are ranked higher.
At the start of the season, George’s role was more of a playmaker and that aspect of his game kept him on the court. He’s now turning into more of a reliable scorer for the Jazz, something he was known for throughout his high school and college career. George has always been good in catch-and-shoot situations, but his footwork has improved off the dribble, getting his feet set and shoulders square. George has put up double figures in the last five games, including going for 19 points (5-for-9 from 3-point range) and 11 rebounds in a win over the Bucks on Feb. 4. — Krysten Peek
It appears George broke through the rookie wall recently. He registered his first career double-double against the Milwaukee Bucks, but George was on a roll before that.
Over his last four games, he’s averaged 16.5 points on 53% shooting. That’s a great sign for Jazz fans who were concerned about his efficiency problems, which have reared their ugly heads throughout the season. So, what does this mean about Utah’s future backcourt?
The answer to that question may hinge on what Utah does at the trade deadline. There have been rumors that Utah had an interest in Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray, but that may be smoke and mirrors.
Utah has the assets to make a deadline deal, but one has to wonder if the Jazz should be patient with George before going all in on a veteran point guard. Considering George comes from one of the most hyped draft classes of all time, the Jazz have to be pleased with the way his rookie year is shaping up.
Also, keep in mind George is only 20 years old and has a lot of room to grow. He may not have bursted onto the scene like ex-Jazzman Donovan Mitchell did in 2017, but his progress is moving along faster than ex-Jazz All-Stars Gordon Hayward and Deron Williams did in their rookie seasons.
George will get a chance to present his case that he is indeed the point guard of the future Tuesday night against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The tip-off is at 7:00 p.m. MST.
Follow Inside The Jazz on Facebook and X.
Subscribe to YouTube for breaking Jazz news videos and live streams!
