I love this move for Utah. For all his short comings, Boozer was the best scorer the Jazz had and Jefferson easily replaces that. In fact, Jefferson and Boozer are quite similar in their statistical impact. Boozer is a better mid range shooter but Jefferson has more moved in the post and is a slightly better defender. The Jazz will have to change their game plan, though, because you can't run the high pick-and-roll with Jefferson like they did with Boozer. But Deron Williams will instantly make Jefferson a better player. I really expect we're going to see the best Jefferson has to offer, and don't forget that he was considered one of the best young big men in the league before an injury two years ago. To acquire him without giving up any roster-based assets is a coup.
For every winner there is a gigantic loser, however, and as always, the loser in this case is a sad, sad Timberwolf franchise. Look I agree, Jefferson and Kevin Love don't fit together. If you're concerned about money then Love is the guy you keep. Fine, whatever. But GM David Kahn did such a magnificently boneheaded job of making it clear that the team was desperate to get rid of Jefferson that the team lost all leverage in actually acquiring meaningful assets. Seriously, the best way to insure that you get next to nothing for the best player on your team is to broadcast it to anyone who will listen (and a number of people who are trying desperately not to listen) that you want to get rid of him and save money. Idiot. The Memphis pick might have some value given how poorly that franchise is running these days but that doesn't change the fact Minnesota now has a roster full of role players and guys who are too green to contribute much. They could easily be the most inept offensive team in the league next year. Terrible.
Utah Grade: A
Minnesota Grade: D
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