The Utah Jazz have welcome a new signing from Philadelphia 76ers.
In their quest for an NBA title, the Utah Jazz find themselves in a perplexing situation. Lauri Markkanen appears to be the team’s cornerstone, but the rest of the roster hasn’t performed up to the executive office’s expectations.
After a dismal 31-51 record that prevented them from making the playoffs, the Jazz are already searching for ways to bolster their roster. There have been discussions about exchanging Colin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson for players who could relieve Markkanen of some of his workload.
One name, though, is currently associated with the Jazz and has the potential to divide the fan base. While some could view his signing as a net benefit for the squad, others might take his last game with his previous team as a red flag to avoid him like the plague.
REPORT: The Utah Jazz are considering signing Tobias Harris of the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency.
It’s true that Tobias Harris can play basketball. His career stats will attest to the fact that he has been a valuable member of the teams he has played for. The Jazz’s unexpected interest in him is probably mostly due to his prior regular season and postseason performances.
Per James Hansen of SLC Dunk:
Chris B. Haynes reports that Tobias Harris is anticipated to be a free agent target for the Utah Jazz.
Haynes lists Utah, Detroit, San Antonio, Dallas, and New Orleans among teams that are interested in Harris.
It’s understandable why a number of teams are hoping to sign the 31-year-old swingman. Throughout the course of the Philadelphia 76ers’ 70 regular-season games last season, Harris averaged 17.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game.
All Philadelphia basketball fans, however, would concur that Harris was the worst development for the team’s hopes of winning a title during the Joel Embiid era. Jimmy Butler was allowed to depart and sign a $180 million, five-year contract with the Sixers.
Since then, Philly hasn’t even advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals, while Jimmy Buckets has guided the Heat to two Finals appearances. Even worse, Harris scored 0 points in his last game with the Sixers.
Harris will probably want a high price for his talents and would be a fantastic addition to Markkanen’s lineup. The Jazz should, however, exercise caution while making a contract offer to Lauri because keeping him in Salt Lake City ought to be their first concern.
