Draft Insider Links Arkansas Guard to Jazz at Pick 9

The rumors continue to find their way to Salt Lake City, with the Utah Jazz only one week away from the NBA draft. The latest comes from ESPN draft expert Jonathan Givony, who believes the Jazz have their eyes on Arkansas’ point guard Anthony Black.

“Anthony Black is believed to be high on the Utah Jazz’s draft board," Givony wrote.

Black is projected to be the second point guard to come off the board after blue-chip prospect Scoot Henderson. Despite a jump shot that may not be NBA-ready, Black’s stock has been trending in the right direction due to his size, playmaking ability, and upside as a defender.

In fact, ex-Jazz assistant coach Gordie Chiesa went as far as to compare Black’s skill set to Penny Hardaway. Chiesa made the claim on ESPN 700's The Bill Riley Show.

“Yeah, Penny Hardaway," Chiesa said. “He’s tall. He’s good. I like him. I like his game. He’s a tall point guard. He’s instinctive. He knows what he’s doing. When he penetrates he thinks pass right now. He’s bouncing in transition, also. He can steal the ball, also. What he does—he’s a defensive player. He’s got quick hands. When someone drives to the middle of the floor he can pick their pocket.”

Although being in the same conversation as Hardaway may be a stretch, Black does fit the profile of what Jazz CEO Danny Ainge will be in search of on draft day. Utah will be looking to transition into a roster of players that have the size and length that can guard multiple positions.

As far as positional need, the point guard spot will be high on Utah’s list. The Jazz have Collin Sexton and Kris Dunn under contract next year, but to be a championship contender, the Jazz will need an upgrade at some point.

If Black is a high priority, then the big question is can the Jazz land him if the team stays put at pick No. 9, or would they need to trade up? If you believe Yahoo Sports' draft expert Krysten Peek, Ainge will need to be aggressive on draft day if Black is their guy.

“I don’t think he’s going to be on the board past 6," Peek said on The Bill Riley Show.

Jazz fans will finally get closure on the matter in one week.

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