Utah Jazz: Ranking the last 10 first-round draft picks

Utah Jazz: Ranking the last 10 first-round picks

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 02: Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz talks to Donovan Mitchell #45 against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on December 2, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

10 of 11

Utah Jazz (Photo by Omar Rawlings/Getty Images) /

2. Rudy Gobert (2013)

Back to 2013 the best pick for the team clearly came much later in the draft, even if it was not clear at the time. His first two years he did not get much run as he was behind many big bodies on the roster. In his third season he jumped into the starting lineup and has never looked back. During this breakout season he would average 9.1 points, 11.0 rebounds and 2.2 blocks.

Since then he has never averaged less than 10.7 rebounds, led the league in blocks, field goal percentage and effective field goal percentage once each, made two All-NBA teams, three All-Defense teams, one All-Star team and is a two-time Defensive Player of the Year. The argument can be made that he is the best defensive player in the league and has anchored one of the best defenses in the league since his ascendance into the starting lineup.

Jazz will face the most adversity in return. light. Related Story

Gobert has been the butt of many jokes over his time in the spotlight, but honestly, most of that is unwarranted. Yes he should have not touched the microphones during a burgeoning pandemic but that is more immaturity than anything malicious. Mocking him for crying for not getting All-Star recognition also feels misplaced in a society that wants people who want to be the best at all times. Gobert wants to win and helps the Jazz do just that.

Further anchoring this pick is that no one of note was drafted after him in 2013. The Jazz nailed this pick and is the second biggest factor they were able to continue progressing after Gordon Hayward left the Western Conference.

Home/Utah Jazz