Utah Jazz 2026-2027 guide

The Utah Jazz rebuild, after years of trying, finally appears to have reached a turning point. In that sense, the acquisition of Jaren Jackson Jr. in February was a clear statement of intent heading into the new season: the rebuild is over, and it is time to start winning.

The real question, however, is another one: after years of disappointing results, will the Jazz be able to make the necessary leap?

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Key players

After last year’s breakout season, Keyonte George (G, 11.5 cr.) is being asked to confirm the level he reached. Scoring 20 points per game should not be a problem, but with more offensive talent around him, his assist production could also increase significantly.

Utah’s absolute certainty is Lauri Markkanen (F, 12.5 cr.), who has consistently remained near an All-Star level in recent years. He is an extremely reliable player, with the main question mark being his health: just 89 games played over the last two seasons. With the team’s goals changing, however, the late-season absences tied to preserving players should also decrease.

Another player worth targeting is Darryn Peterson (G, 12.5 cr.). His already-complete offensive arsenal and elite athletic tools should allow him to adjust quickly to the NBA. The ups and downs will be inevitable for a rookie, but he has potential superstar talent and could make an impact right away.

Players to avoid

The weak spot in Utah’s starting five appears to be at center. Jusuf Nurkic (C, 10.0 cr.) has been dealing with numerous physical issues for years, the latest of which will force him to miss the first month of the Regular Season.

That, combined with the obvious defensive limitations that restrict his use in crucial moments, could significantly reduce his role for the Jazz this season.

Potential surprises

One player who could benefit from the minutes left open by Nurkic, especially considering the lack of alternatives at the position, is Kyle Filipowski (C, 9.5 cr.). His rebounding ability pairs well with Jaren Jackson Jr.’s skill set, and the former Duke player has a real chance to earn the final spot in Will Hardy’s starting five.

Also becoming known to the public for the positive comments he made during the Preseason, Blake Hinson (F, 5.0 cr.) is also an excellent 3-and-D player. There is plenty of competition at his position, but his hunger to establish himself and his convincing performances in the opening games could earn him more minutes than expected.

Projected starting five

PG: Keyonte George (Guard, 11.5 Credits)

SG: Darryn Peterson (Guard, 12.5 Credits)

SF: Lauri Markkanen (Forward, 12.5 Credits)

PF: Jaren Jackson Jr. (Forward, 12.0 Credits)

C: Jusuf Nurkic (Center, 10.0 Credits)

Power Ranking

There is no shortage of talent, either offensively or defensively. A backcourt featuring George and Peterson, a frontcourt built around the Markkanen-Jackson Jr. pairing, and a player like Ace Bailey coming off the bench give Utah a level of talent that few NBA teams can match.

The challenge will be finding the right balance. With so many young players and several new additions, Will Hardy will need time to build a team capable of reaching its full potential.

If the Jazz can quickly develop the right chemistry, they could become a dangerous wild card in the Play-In race. After years spent mainly looking toward the future, Utah has finally reached the point where it needs to try to win in the present as well.

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