With a legacy connection and elite production, Cameron Boozer is a tempting draft target, yet Utah must weigh sentimental ties against a critical need for backcourt stability.
Who Should Utah Draft with the No. 2 Pick?
It’s no secret that Duke star Cameron Boozer has strong ties to the Utah Jazz. So much so that his father, Carlos Boozer, is not only a legend of the franchise but is also currently a scout for the team. Between AJ Dybantsa and Boozer, the rumors are running wild with ways the Jazz could add one of them to the squad for the upcoming season.
However, the current consensus has the Wizards taking Dybantsa with the first pick and Utah drafting Kansas’ Darryn Peterson with the second. Boozer seems to be a lock to round out the top three of the draft, but according to a new report, the forward is “strongly in the mix” for the Jazz at No. 2.
Boozer is the best front-court talent in this year's draft. Averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists while shooting at a 55.6% clip from the field is production that any team would love to add to their roster. But the only issue with the Jazz taking Boozer is that the front court is the least of their worries.
Lauri Markkanen, Jarren Jackson Jr. and Walker Kessler, when healthy, make up one of the most prolific front courts in the league. Markkanen’s ability to stretch the floor, Jackson Jr.’s versatility on both sides of the ball and Kessler's staunch paint presence are all far too impactful to use the second pick on Boozer.
The clear weakness in Utah’s roster is at the point, and Peterson seems to be the clear choice. Jazz fans are behind the former Jayhawk, and most mock drafts are calling the pick a surefire success, especially considering that at one point, Peterson was touted to go first overall.
While the report could be nothing more than another distraction, the possibility can’t be ruled out, but from a situational standpoint, it should be. Sure, having a player that’s familiar with the organization is crucial, especially when it comes to a smooth transition to the pro level. But strong ties shouldn’t take precedence over what is needed for the team to finally push for contention.
A top pick shouldn’t be used to facilitate a family reunion; it should be used to secure the final piece of the grueling puzzle that Jazz fans have been put through, and that final piece is Peterson.
