Reading Between the Lines on Jazz

Tim Buckley’s July 4 story saying the Jazz talked with Houston about an Andrei Kirilenko-Tracy McGrady trade told us much — even though the trade didn’t occur.

First, it told us the Jazz aren’t content with their outside shooting. To go after a player like McGrady – with a history of one-man play and injuries – means they desperately want perimeter scoring. And McGrady can certainly do that.

Second, it told us what we all suspected: Kirilenko is expendable. The Jazz forward can be great some nights, but appears to be living proof of the old NBA clich’: He is what he is — a quirky, talented player whose mindset keeps him from being good every night.

Third, it told us the Jazz aren’t sitting on their hands. They are looking to make trades. It’s easy to think because nothing happens, nothing is being done. But talking and doing are different matters, and working out the details of a trade -within the rules – is a lot harder than it looks.

That said, even though it appears the Jazz will return basically intact next year – providing they sign Paul Millsap – don’t count on it. Something will happen.

The Jazz know they can’t stand pat and hope they’re better.