Examining the Fit of Free Agent Christian Wood on the Jazz

With the Utah Jazz projected over $40 million in practical cap space, the team should be doing their fair share of research for this year's free agency class. Depending on how signings end up shaking out come July, we could see Wood become a surprising target for the Jazz.

Christian Wood is not expected to return to the Mavericks, per @tim_cato

(Via https://t.co/84U48KNGtT) pic.twitter.com/nZMiL2SaGn
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 1, 2023

This past season, Wood averaged 16.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and over a block per game for the Mavericks in what was mainly considered a bench role. He started in only 17 of his 67 games played for Dallas, and it looks as if that ultimately didn't lead to much team success in the end.

Now, Wood looks to find another opportunity elsewhere, but could that opportunity be with the Utah Jazz? How would a potential Christian Wood-Jazz team end up looking?

In the event Utah was interested in the 6-year big, it would likely end up being in one of two roles for the team. One would be transitioning back to a power forward as a part of the starting lineup, the other being a much-needed big to come off of the bench.

The Jazz started Kelly Olynyk for over 60 games last season, and while he was serviceable in his time as a starter, he's better served as a depth piece. There are definitely some improvements that can be made to the starting lineup. Wood started his career as a four, so it's not a position he's not accustomed to. Also standing 6'10, he possesses more than enough size to run it.

As a bench big, we'd likely see Wood replace Udoka Azubuike's and Damian Jones' spots in the rotation; a clear overall upgrade. Wood could provide some great size, scoring, and spacing off the bench, something that the Jazz had trouble with last season. Securing a long-term big to act as the 6th to 7th man off the bench could prove to be a worthwhile investment.

As free agency continues to approach, we'll wait to see where Utah's priorities lie when it comes to acquiring talent. The chance to add a player like Christian Wood to the team's frontcourt is one that could be overlooked at first, but one the Jazz should at the very least look into.

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