Ace Bailey’s Defensive Breakout Could Unlock Another Level for Utah Jazz

If the Utah Jazz get a breakout defensive season from Ace Bailey, they might start to be in some uncomfortable conversations.

While he’s a walking mismatch on the offensive end at 6-foot-9 with length and the ability to put the ball on the floor, create for himself, and shoot and score from all three levels, the defensive side of the ball is where he could get really interesting.

Because if he’s able to use that same versatility he leverages on the offensive end to slow down opposing players defensively, this Jazz team could take an even bigger leap than expected.

Utah is already projected to be one of the biggest risers of any NBA team this upcoming season year over year, but the defensive side of the ball is certainly somewhat of a question mark. While there’s plenty of scorers on this team and the Jazz should have no problem putting the ball in the basket, there are still some defensive questions.

And while incoming rookie Darryn Peterson has untapped upside as a backcourt defender, Bailey could be the missing piece and unlock a new level of defensive production from the Jazz.

He showed flashes of that potential in some of his preseason games, and if he’s able to do it more consistently and become a real weapon on the defensive end, that changes the outlook for Utah significantly.

If Bailey can emerge as a true two-way talent, similar to a player like Paul George in the past, who used his positional size to be a dynamic scorer while also making a significant impact defensively, that would be a huge development for the Jazz.

Because Bailey already has the offensive upside to become a special player in this league. But if he’s able to pair that with the type of defensive versatility that allows him to slow down some of the better scorers in the NBA, he becomes much more than just another offensive weapon on this roster.

And for a Jazz team that’s already expected to take a significant step forward this season, that could make all the difference.

It’s one of the biggest, most underrated storylines entering the season. Preseason production, especially on the defensive, end doesn’t always translate to the regular season. But it certainly seem to keep an eye on the broader context of Bailey’s development.

A jumbo two-way wing is much more valuable than just a bucket-getter.