SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4 Sports activities) – With their dedication to a youth motion, the Utah Jazz are relying on Keyonte George and Taylor Hendricks to each make large strides of their sophomore seasons this 12 months.
After taking part in 75 video games as a rookie, George obtained a little bit burned out by the tip of the 12 months. He will not let that occur this season.
“I believe Will [Hardy] Textual content me each six days to inform me to get in form,” George stated with a smile. “He sees me are available right here and run. The message was loud and clear, and this summer season I undoubtedly took it upon myself to actually hearken to that message and apply it to my recreation.”
Jazz newcomers convey expertise and management
George made the NBA All-Rookie Second Staff final 12 months, averaging 13.0 factors and 4.4 assists per recreation. This 12 months, the sixteenth decide within the 2023 NBA Draft will likely be requested to tackle much more, together with management accountability.
“My complete factor for the summer season was to do that bounce for the older guys,” George stated. “I don’t wish to relive what we went via final 12 months. I’ve had my ups and downs and I am making an attempt to maintain a degree head. [The veterans] It additionally helped me tackle nearly a management function, use my voice extra and be comfy sharing my ideas.
George had by no means performed level guard earlier than final season. Now he feels rather more comfy on this place.
“Clearly final 12 months, moving into the purpose guard function for the primary 12 months, it was undoubtedly a unique adjustment,” George stated. “However I believe now I’ve undoubtedly accepted this function. The sport undoubtedly slowed down loads for me. So now it is time to actually play with the large canines.
Utah Jazz veterans hope to steer younger core
Final 12 months, Taylor Hendricks wasn’t a part of the Jazz’s common rotation till February, primarily taking part in with the Salt Lake Metropolis Stars within the G-League to start his skilled profession. So, throughout his first 40 NBA video games, he felt like a rookie.
“Having these minutes on the finish of the season was essential,” stated Hendricks, who averaged 7.3 factors and 4.6 rebounds per recreation. “The very first thing is confidence. I really feel much more assured heading into 12 months two. I simply have this 12 months of expertise beneath my belt and I do know what to anticipate.
Hendricks obtained greater and stronger this summer season, gaining 17 kilos to have the ability to deal with the bodily pressure of the season.
“That was a objective for me throughout sophomore 12 months,” Hendricks stated. “I actually wish to work on my physique simply due to the function I will play. I do not really feel like I am slower, however I undoubtedly really feel stronger.
Jazz administration enthusiastic concerning the youth motion
And the Jazz will likely be stronger if these two rising stars can proceed to develop.
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