Jazz Endorsed to ‘Risk’ Slotting Rookie Keyonte George Into Starting 5

The Utah Jazz have an array of guard options to lean on entering the upcoming 2023-24 NBA season. While none currently stand out as an absolute frontrunner for a nod into the starting rotation, some have begun to advocate for some potential dark horses to enter the race.

The most intriguing of the bunch in Utah might be newly selected rookie G Keyonte George. After showing off the hot hand during his short three-game Summer League stint this July, fans have been eagerly eyeing the next chance to see this budding star in action.

For some, there is a case for George to find a spot in the starting five quicker than many would expect. Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report says the Jazz should consider ‘risking’ the move, noting that the Baylor product may be a better fit for HC Will Hardy:

"While you never want to place too much stock into summer league play, George's sizzling play this summer felt like a sign of things to come. It's not simply that he looked good, but rather that he looked good in areas that could greatly grow his game."

"If he's going to be a standout contributor as a scorer, passer and shot-maker, then he should be an easy choice for Utah's starting point guard spot.

Jordan Clarkson

and

Collin Sexton

have score-first tendencies that make them less than ideal fits for the role,

Talen Horton-Tucker

is consistently inconsistent, and

Kris Dunn

has rarely shot the three-ball at a solid clip and never attempted it at a high volume."

The move would be a bold one, but may be the best decision with everything considered. George projects to be the future of the point guard position in Utah, so prioritizing his development and growth should be a key point for this team moving forward. Accelerating his initial opportunity on this roster might be the best way to do so.

Still, starting the first-year guard over an established veteran like Clarkson might be a difficult task. After the $50 million/three-year extension signed this summer ($23 million in year one), the plan might be to give the former Sixth Man of the Year a heavy chunk of the minutes.

With an impressive showing during training camp in preseason, though, things remain fluid with Keyonte’s year-one prospects. Honing in on a little over a month until the regular season begins, excitement continues to boil for Jazz fans.

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