Utah Jazz: Grading the team’s NBA free agency signings

Utah Jazz free-agent signing No. 4: Mike Conley

One of the main reasons that the Jazz moved Favors to the Thunder was that they were very keen to re-sign Mike Conley. The starting point guard was a crucial piece both offensively and defensively for the Jazz last season. They really missed his leadership and defensive acumen in the Clippers series which they lost.

Conley did not always fit with the Jazz. He appeared out of sync with the rest of the team when he first came over via trade from the Memphis Grizzlies at the start of the 2019-20 season. However, like the true professional he is, Conley found the team’s rhythm. This season he fit in with the team like he had been there for most of his career.

Given that Conley is now 33 years old and has missed large chunks of time in three of the last four seasons, it is possible that the Jazz overpaid Conley. They signed him to a three-year $72 million deal which was probably required to keep the veteran.

If he can stay on the court for more than three-quarters of the season and for the entire playoffs, then this contract will be worth it. If he is off the court for extended periods of time then the deal is a bust. However, there is always optimism when a deal is signed.

Grade: A