Utah Jazz counting on Derrick Favors’ development
Back in February of 2011 the Brooklyn (then-New Jersey Nets) made a blockbuster deal to acquire Utah Jazz All-Star point guard Deron Williams. In return, the Nets sent big man Derrick Favors, point guard Devin Harris, two first-round draft picks and cash considerations to the Jazz. At the time, the deal was widely praised, especially if the Nets could re-sign Williams, which they eventually did. Some even believed the deal was one-sided. However, now that Williams is on the decline and Favors continues to grow, the deal still may seem one-sided, but in the Jazz’s favor.
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Jabari Davis of Basketball Insiders believes Favors needs to take the next step and become a “dependable 18/11-type guy” for the Utah Jazz to take the next step as a team.
"Quin has a nice “problem” on his hands, as you won’t find many coaches that will complain about having several viable options at multiple positions. Favors has to take the next step this year. I’ve been a fan of his, and see improvement, but they need him to develop into that dependable 18/11-type guy that will also dedicate to manning the paint a bit more. I’m also excited to see if Gobert can take that next step as well. Looked great in a few stretches of SL action I was able to catch of his. With all that youth, I wouldn’t anticipate a 13-14 Phoenix season from Utah, but I do think the roster has improved significantly and hope to see at least signs of progress throughout the year."
Favors averaged 13.3 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 52.2% from the field and 66.9% from the free throw line last season.