Boldly Ride

Have you ever been so excited for something to happen, and then when it finally does it ends up being a let-down? The excitement building up to the event created such high expectations in your mind that when it was all said and done you were left feeling a little bit sad and perhaps slightly depressed. Well the Utah Jazz Season begins tomorrow, and this won't be anything like that!!! For me that sad and slightly depressed feeling has existed since our Game 5 loss to the Lakers on April 27th. That Monday evening loss meant it was time to press the "mute" button in my head that constantly blares Utah Jazz excitement. 178 days have passed since that somber Monday evening, but now my friends, the time has come to turn off that mute button and turn the volume up on the excitement that will surely follow.

There are some who may say, "But how can I possibly get excited for a Jazz team that didn't make any off-season moves to get better, still has Boozer, and is starting off the season with injuries." I believe my response to those who have cowardly bought into these excuses could best be summed up in a poem I wrote with the help of Edgar Allan Poe.

The Title

GAILY bedight,
A gallant knight,
In sunshine and in shadow,
Had journeyed long,
Singing a song,
In search of The Title.

But he grew old --
This knight so bold --
And o'er his heart a shadow
Fell as he found
No spot of ground
That looked like The Title.

And, as his strength
Failed him at length,
He met a pilgrim shadow --
"Shadow," said he,
"Where can it be --
This land of The Title?"

"Over the Mountains
Of the Moon,
Down the Valley of the Shadow,
Ride, boldly ride,"
The shade replied, --
"If you seek for The Title!"

(It is true that Edgar Allan Poe helped me write this; he just didn't know in 1849 that he was helping me. The parts I contributed are in Red.)

So as my buddy Edgar and I wrote, we must "ride, boldly ride, if [we] seek The Title. We cannot begin our journey "Over the Mountains and down the valley" with doubts about our knightly team. We must be bold as we ride. Can you begin to feel it? Is the excitement volume beginning to increase? Is it almost deafening now? Well if it isn't, then something is seriously wrong with you because it is so loud in my head that I can barely think.

Look to the horizon, or tomorrow night, and you will see the beginning of the 82 game regular season. I look forward to crossing the mountains and valleys along with you. It will be one exciting journey.

Exercising the Option

Exercising the Option

Utah Jazz Off-season thoughts Part 1

NBA contracts often include “Options.” These decisions include TEAM, or PLAYER options. Whether a TEAM or a PLAYER option, a deadline is set before the beginning of the season for the OPTION to be decided. The Team option allows the organization the ability to “exercise” the option and retain their player, or decline to “pick-up” the option and let their former player become free to sign a new contract with any team; including the possibility of resigning a new contract with their original team. A Player option leaves the player the decision whether to “opt-in” and complete their original contract, or “opt-out” and become a free agent, able to sign a new contract with any team.

The “option” power is great, and those who hold this power take it very seriously; usually weighing all options and making their decisions as close to the mandatory deadline as possible. This waiting can also generate a great deal of drama, and the uncertainty of Team or Player decisions can greatly impact the overall production of the team in the upcoming season.

There were “Options” aplenty in the Jazz current off-season schedule with drama certainly following. There were three players on last years’ Jazz roster who held Player Options and one player that the Jazz held the Team Option on. Let’s start with the Player Options.

Player Options

1) Carlos Boozer: No need to rehash all of the extended commentary on Carlos. In short, in an inopportune time he commented that he would indeed be opting out in an effort to gain more money. He received a great deal of backlash from the fan base and his relationship with his teammates also seemed to suffer. The deadline came and Carlos Boozer changed his mind and “Opted-In” on his final year of his contract.
2) Mehmet Okur: In the weeks leading up to the option deadline, Memo Okur stated publicly that he would like to remain in Utah and with the Utah Jazz. Memo’s agent was in town the day of the deadline, with many believing he would be opting out as well. The deadline came and Memo too “Opted-In” on his final year of his contract. Several days later Memo signed a new two-year extension with the Utah Jazz.
3) Kyle Korver: Kyle remained rather quiet about his intensions to opt-in or out with the Jazz. To avoid the drama of deadline day decisions, Kyle informed Utah Jazz Management a day before the deadline that he too would “Opt-In” on the final year of his contract.

Team Options

1) Krylo Fesenko: Still new to the Jazz organization, with little time to prove himself to the team, the Team option to keep Fesenko seemed unsure at best. The Jazz however, exercised their team option, thus maintaining Fesenko for the final year of his rookie contract.

Free Agents and Restricted Free Agents

In addition to those who are under contract “options,” there are players’ whose contracts have ended. Depending on the situation, and the way the original contract was structured, these players are now either Free Agents, and able to sign with any team they wish, or Restricted Free Agents, meaning they can sign an offer sheet with any team, with the team who held their previous contract the right of first refusal. Should a Restricted Free Agent sign an offer sheet with another team, their original team has 7 days to match the offer and retain their player, or decline to match and allow the player to sign with the new team.

1) Paul Millsap: Paul is the Utah Jazz teams’ desired Power Forward of the Future.
He is also a Restricted Free Agent who has signed an offer sheet with the Portland Trailblazers. As such, the Jazz Organization has a little more than 3 days to decide if they will match the Portland Offer Sheet and Maintain their desired player. Sentiment around the team and fans is that the Utah Jazz will indeed match the offer. This Match would further extend the Jazz into the dollar for dollar tax penalty.

2) Brevin Knight, Jarron Collins, Ronnie Price, and Morris Almond: All are Unrestricted Free Agents and are free to sign a new contract with any team of their choosing. Last year, the Utah Jazz declined their team option on Morris Almond. It is believed that he, along with Brevin Knight, and Jarron Collins will not be back in a Jazz uniform next season. Contract negotiations with Ronnie Price are ongoing.


What does it all mean?

Without getting into too many financial details, the NBA sets a cap on how much a team can spend on players before becoming penalized with a $1 for $1 tax. With all of our option holding players deciding to “Opt-in,” the Utah Jazz Organization has exceeded that threshold. Because matching the offer sheet extended to Paul Millsap will further extend the Jazz’s exceeding budget, there have been confirmed reports that Carlos Boozer will soon be traded.

No matter the outcome of Millsap’s offer sheet, the drama surrounding the Utah Jazz Organization is enough to fill a season worth of scripts for a daytime soap opera. And I for one am hooked. I have been thinking of a few titles of what the Jazz Soap Opera could be, and so far my top choices are, “Nights of our Lives,” “The Young Players and the Restless Sloan,” or “How the Roster Turns.”

Fan Options

Just like the highly paid players, each fan holds an “Option.” This option comes up each year in our imaginary fan contracts that allows us to choose whether we will “Opt-in” as fans and be exciting for the upcoming season, or “Opt-out” of our excitement for the upcoming season and chose to “sign-away” our time with something new. I would like to announce that before the deadline approached and the drama even began, that I have Opted-In for the excitement and the upcoming season. I have also chosen to sign an excitement extension with the Jazz. My new extension is good for the next 4 years. Until that time, I have no choice but to be ready to go! Preseason games are only 12 weeks away!!!

(Part 2 forthcoming)

Jazz Fans Rejoice!

After 12 years officiating in the NBA, Violet Palmer is leaving her post to become referee coordinator for the West Coast Conference. Palmer became the first woman to officiate a major U.S. professional sport when she made her NBA debut Oct. 31, 1997.

Jazz Fans Rejoice!

No Encore for the Jazz

In mid January I shared my thoughts on the Jazz at the seasons' Intermission. The curtain has now fallen on the Jazz and there not only appears to be no encore, but there are a few of us standing - giving the ovation the team and organization deserves.

After our mid-season intermission we were treated to a bit of a tease in the second act. Reviews and projections from the cast led us all to believe that the second half of the season would be a sight to behold. Award winning perhaps. It was however, award-less, and for the most part, entertaining at best. Yet, with injuries continuing, and chemistry never really developing, there were some bright spots that were enough for me to stand at the conclusion of the season and applaud.

Regardless of expectations or perceived talent on this Jazz roster, it could be argued that any other team plagued with the injuries the Jazz were forced to work through this year would have landed them near the bottom of the Division or even the Conference. Yet, despite the worst injury riddled season in nearly 20 years the Jazz were able to finish the season with a winning record and a playoff position.

They were able to keep their head above water and avoid completely falling apart. The unknown however is whether or not the falling apart is now in front of us, instead of behind us. We all know Boozer, Okur, and Korver can all opt out of their contracts. The Jazz must decide whether to pick up Fesenko's option, whether to extend the contract of Ronnie Brewer, and what they will do with the 4 unrestricted free agents.

Although I do feel a little uneasy about whether or not we are being forced into potential rebuilding mode again, I do take some comfort in knowing that the situation we are about to face is not a surprise, but something that Kevin O'Conner has been thinking about for several seasons now. I honestly believe that Kevin O'Conner has a back-up plan for every situation, and probably a back-up plan for each back-up plan. This is the man who took us from "bye-bye John and Karl," to "Hello D-Will and Boozer and Western Conference Finals" in just a few seasons.

This season will be remembered for the excitement of projected success, to the sadness injuries and an eventual first round exit brought upon us all. But I would imagine that it will be remembered more for the loss of Larry Miller and the retirement of Hot Rod Hundley. There is no doubt Larry would have had a few things to say about the team's production this year, and would certainly have had some wonderful things to say about Hot Rod. Both will certainly be missed, and the Jazz organization and its fans will never be the same.

We may lose Boozer, or Okur, or some combination of other players, but in the end, it ends up being just a game...a game I am totally obsessed with. In the months to come, the team and coach may end up looking quite different, but as the Season approaches, I won't be any less excited than I ever have been. Thanks for the Memories Larry, Hot Rod, Sloan, D-Will's crossover, Boozer's left hand dunk, Harprings free-throw-line-curl-around jumper, Okur's back to back trey balls, Korvers rugged good looks, and Boler reminding us all to buckle-up.

See you next season...the curtain falls, the orchestra quits playing, the aisle fills with fans leaving the room, and someone comes in later to clean up the mess we left on the floor.

Next showing: Contracts and the Draft.

2009 Utah Jazz MVP Rankings

Welcome to the first ever Barden's rankings of the Utah Jazz MVP. The regular season ended last night, and by the way the team has been plagued by injuries this year, maybe the end of the regular season isn't such a bad thing. I will be ranking the 15 players under contract this past season with the Utah Jazz by the following criteria:

1. How valueable were they to the team this year
2. Games & Minutes played
3. Individual Statistics
4. Overall effort
5. Perceived loyalty to the team, coach, and fans

Please feel free to add your comments at the end in areas you may agree or may disagree. So without waiting another minute. Here we go. Starting at #15 with Least Valueable - all the way to the #1 Most Valueable.

#15 Morris Almond

Morris Almond played in a total of 25 games this year for the Jazz before being permanently assigned to the Jazz D-League Affiliate; Utah Flash. Earlier in the season the Jazz announced that they would not be picking up next year's option on Almond's contract. All signs point to Almond being on another teams roster at the beginning of next season. Almond's positive stat-In his short playing time, he hit 80% of his free throws going 21-25.

#14 Kyrylo Fesenko

Fesenko also spent some time with the Utah Flash, but was ultimately re-called to the Jazz to make space on the Flash roster for Kosta Koufus. Fesenko has been openly criticized by Jazz management as a player with great talent, but with an immature, non-focused attitude. In his 21 games played for the Jazz this season he recorded 15 blocks. Not bad considered Carlos Boozer finished the season with only 7 blocks. Fesenko may have a future with the Jazz, but I would imagine he will spend a portion of next year on the Flash roster as well.

#13 Jarron Collins

I like Collins, and it was difficult to place him at #13, but ultimately it came down to his value to the team when he was needed. The Jazz were plagued by injuries this season, Collins included. Yet there were very few times when Collins was called upon because we were desperate for his help. However, when Collins played, he played well. Wouldn't mind continuing to pay him $2 million a year to ride the bench and hack-a-Shaq when called upon. Collins also seems to win the Jazz award for player most willing to take a charge.

#12 Ronnie Price

Like Collins, I think Price is a talented player that just didn't get the playing time this year to showcase all of his talents. Deron Williams missed a total of 14 games this season and Price was there to run the show. He is quick, a decent shooter, but not really a point guard. He is also prone to turnovers. Price played 200 minutes fewer than Brevin Knight this year, and only had 5 fewer turnovers. I like his energy, but sadly may never be more than a decent backup guard.

#11 Kosta Koufos

Kosta Koufos was the Jazz's first round draft pick and this season's only rookie. Koufos finished the season with the Utah Flash, but I believe this is a positive. The Jazz knew there were not enough minutes to give "KoKo," but believed in his potential as a future piece of the franchise. In addition, injuries to other players gave the rookie the opportunity to play in 48 games with the Jazz; 7 as a starter. Even with this limited playing time, he still ranked 4th on the Jazz block list with 31.

#10 Brevin Knight

I wouldn't disagree if you presented the argument that Knight should be higher on this list. However, every other place I ranked him just didn't seem right. He gave Deron Williams some quality rest, and usually didn't let things fall apart. His value to the team would also have been higher had we not had Price available for backup minutes as well. Shooting 34% from the field did mean however that D-Will's rests were occasionally shortened. Would like to see him back next year as D-Will's backup. His effort has never been in question.

#9 Matt Harpring

If Matt Harpring wasn't ranked 11th in minutes played this season, then he certainly would have ranked higher on this list. His is without question the toughest player on the team, and the go-to-guy when you needed someone roughed up a bit. This season he managed to frustrate some quality players, ie, Dirk, Pierce, and most recently Baron Davis. He plays hard, and smart, and his curl around shot from the free throw line is practically a guarantee, yet, his body just hasn't been able to keep up with his toughness and he lands at #9.

#8 CJ Miles

Coach Sloan opted to place CJ Miles in the starting line-up allowing Andre Kirilenko the opportunity to boost the second unit. I think this move was more about AK then it ever was about CJ being a starter. CJ certainly has talent, and even a future with the Jazz. I for one, however am a little tired of using the "he is still so young" argument. He has just played 72 games as a starter and is into his second contract. It is time for CJ to start playing a little better defense, and also pull down more than 2.3 rebounds a game. Still, his FG% and FT% aren't too bad.

#7 Carlos Boozer

Boozer is a two-time All Star and among the best Power Forwards in the league. He just wasn't with that crowd this year. Without trying to criticize everything that has gone wrong for Boozer this year, I think we can chalk most of it up to his injury. He never really recovered from his injuries, and until recently has been secretly dealing with problems at home. Boozer did publicly make some comments that have given some, including me, doubts about his loyalty to the team, the coach, and the fans. However, I also believe that had Boozer been healthy all year we would not be playing, and soon be losing to, the Lakers in the first round of the playoffs. His productive playing was "missed" by the Jazz, but the number of games missed, and untimely contract comments, prevent him from rising into the top 5.

#6 Kyle Korver

Is it me, or does Korver seem less dreamy looking this year? Apart from his rugged good looks, Korver can still hit the trey ball, and is the teams best free throw shooter at 88%. When he is on, he is deadly. When he is off, he never seems to be off by much. He works hard and was able to bring down about 90 more rebounds this year than his starting counterpart CJ Miles. Kyle seems to work well in the Jazz offense and I hope to see him on the roster next season. Perhaps the AK off the bench experiment could continue next season with Korver in the starting rotation.

#5 Andrei Kirilenko

Start singing Simon and Garfunkels Mrs Robinson with the lyrics, "Where have you gone Andrei Kirilenko, our team turns its lonely eyes on you." I don't know that the Utah Jazz have ever had a player who is capable of filling up a stat sheet like AK. Andrei led the team with 77 blocks. At the same time, I can't think of any other "high paid" player who needs so much positive reinforcement and motivation to succeed. When AK is at his best, then the Jazz are at their best. When AK seems lost, the Jazz struggle. I don't know if the Jazz should hire another assistant coach solely in charge of telling AK how great he is, or if we should try to cut ties with our needed small forward. Where have you gone AK? I miss you.

# 4 Ronnie Brewer

Ronnie Brewer only missed 1 game this year. Thus, he lead the team in games and minutes played. He shot over 50% from the field and led the team in Steals. (Ranks 7th in the NBA in Steals) The Jazz have quickly accepted that he isn't much of a jump shooter and practically non-existent as a 3-point threat, however, he excels at running the baseline and making the easy "in-the-paint" shots.

# 3 Paul Millsap

Charles Barkely said it best when he said, "Paul Millsap is a beast." When Carlos Boozer went down with injuries, Paul Millsap became very valuable to this team. I don't know that Millsap will ever be as good as Boozer, but this season he certainly meant more to the team than Boozer did. Millsap led the team in offensive rebounds (251) and was just 30 shy of Memo for defensive rebounds. Overall Millsap led the team with 654 rebounds. Paul also conceded he was grateful to have Boozer return to the court, because he was tired. However, this exhaustion was only because he played hard and seemed to give unquestionable effort every time he stepped onto the court. You will certainly be given a raise this year Paul, I just hope it is from the Jazz.

#2 Mehmet Okur

The money man comes in at #2 on this list. Memo leads the team in 3-point FG%, and second only to Deron Williams in Point Per Game. His 17 points and 7+ rebounds per game helped keep the Jazz afloat when injuries seemed doomed to sink the struggling ship. His FG% and FT% are also above average for those who play his position. His deep shots came in clutch moments. Similar to Boozer, Memo can opt out of his contract at the conclusion of this season. Contrary to Boozer, we haven't heard any comments from Memo on the matter. He has chosen to at least "portray" to the fans, that he has been focused on this season and this season only.

#1 Deron Williams

Deron Williams is the 2009 Season Utah Jazz MVP. I really hope Deron Williams at #1 doesn't surprise anyone. Deron Williams is the leader on the team, and the fuel that feeds the fire. Deron Williams leads the team in assists and ranks number 2 in assists for the league. He too missed games this year to injury, which cost him his first selection to the NBA All-Star Game. Deron's intensity was never in question, and after signing a contract extension in the off-season, his loyalty to the team has not been in question either. Although he ranks #2 in the NBA in assists, he also ranks in the top 5 for Turnovers at 3.4 per game. Deron also averaged over a steal a game, and raised his FT% to to nearly 85%. There is no question that for the team to succeed, it is going to need D-Will at the helm.

Why Tiger is the Best!

Good Luck Tiger in your search of Green Jacket # 6.

Ahh,...The Masters

Happy Masters Everyone

I am really looking forward to enjoying The Masters this year. From all reports the weather at Augusta is beautiful and the competition strong. Doubt we will be lucky enough to have a Tiger-Phil final round match-up, but it should be enjoyable all the same.

Jazz Poem

A little Jazz Poem
(Inspired by adult twins who still dress alike)

There once was a player named D-Will
He could run, he could jump, and he could make baskets.
But not the baskets you get merit badges for,
But baskets that count for 1, 2, or even 3 points. (This part of the poem doesn’t rhyme)

He played on a team
called the Utah Jazz,
The team was quite good,
They won with Pizzazz! (This part of the poem rhymes)

Heading down the stretch
We needed some wins
To move in the standings
So we didn’t have to play the Lakers or San Antonio, because we can’t win a 7-game series against the Lakers or San Antonio without home court advantage.

So the team had a leader,
His name was Coach Sloan,
If you don’t work real hard,
He will yell at you and probably put you on the end of the bench with Jarron Collins.

We will see how it goes
As we enter the Postseason
I hope we will do well
And I have a good reason………..so I can write more wonderful poetry.

11 Games to go Until the Playoffs! Go Jazz!

True Identity of the Jazz Bear!!?

Do you know the true identity of the Jazz Bear?

Is he:

A. A real 'Bear'

B. Ron Boone's twin

C. John Stockton

D. Luke Skywalker

E. Donny Osmond

F. None of the Above

(submit your own)

Answer in the Comments

Larry H. Miller 1944-2009

Larry H. Miller (1944-2009)

Larry H. Miller past away last week. There have been plenty to offer their tributes and recollect on the impact Larry's life had on their own life. News agencies, local and national media outlets have covered his life, his accomplishments, and his love of Utah.

I don't have a tribute for Larry, but would rather list how his contributions to the State of Utah have made my life a little more entertaining.

• Utah Jazz (NBA)- This one tends to be the most visible to the general populous, and certainly one that I have enjoyed most of all. It is no secret to those who know me that my life becomes completely centered around basketball when the Jazz season approaches. Larry purchased a local television station KJZZ and made it possible for every Jazz game to be televised. He also purchased a local radio station, 1320 KFAN, and broadcast every game as well.
• Larry built the Delta Center where many exciting events come each year. I have been to rodeos, concerts, other musical performances, ice shows, and other exiting live events.
• Salt Lake Bees (AAA Baseball)- Larry Miller once convinced a friend to purchase a triple-A baseball team and have them located here in Salt Lake City. The friend agreed and the team was born. In later years the man passed away, and after the man's family tried to keep the team going, they came to Larry and said they needed to sell and wanted Larry to buy. Thankfully he did.
• Megaplex Theaters- If you enjoy movies, then you know Larry's theaters are the way to go. The whole idea of assigned stadium seating has greatly changed my movie experience.
• LHM also owns and runs many popular restaurants.
• Larry got his start in the auto industry and that business continues to thrive today. With his success in the automotive field he has made contributions that have helped local Colleges and Universities. (BYU Baseball and Softball field. University of Utah Football Stadium Jumbo Replay Screen, SLCC Automotive Department and buildings. etc.)
• Larry's contributions benefited those among his religious faith. Larry funded the "Work and the Glory" films, and the popular "Joseph Smith Papers."

Larry has certainly made it possible for those of us living in Utah to have something fun and exciting to do, and something we can all be proud of. Thank you Larry for filling my schedule with fun and excitement. You will be missed.

My NBA Assist

For those who are unaware, I have an NBA assist. But you never played in the NBA you say. That is true, I was never drafted, never signed an NBA contract, or collected an NBA pay-check, but I still have a stat. An assist to be precise. How is this possible you might say. I will tell you.

During the 2005 Season I was given a ticket and the opportunity to sit on the front row during a Utah Jazz home game. As I sat on the front row a warm sense of belonging blanketed my body; I truly was where I was meant to be. The Jazz players came out of the locker room 30 minutes before the game was to start for a little warm up. I watched as they went through some lay-up drills, and then stood on the hardwood court as they separated and began practicing their jump shots. Then it happened....a ball bounced to me and I caught it. Then I did exactly what John Stockton would have wanted me to do...I looked for the open man and made the pass. Keith McLeod caught my perfect chest pass and drained the 18 foot jump shot.

Who is Keith McLeod you say? Keith McLeod was a 6-2 guard drafted out of Bowling Green State, who played for the Utah Jazz for two seasons (04-06) where he averaged 6.7 points and 3.4 assists. His time with the Utah Jazz was short, as was his career in the NBA.

It is said by those who were there that night that the crowd arose to their feet after my accurate assist, and applauded me. I however cannot confirm the ovation as I was still in awe at my first and only NBA stat. I don't know if my assist was recorded in the NBA log that night, but I know of my assist and the fame it has brought me in my own imagination.

Jazz Season Intermission

ACT ONE of the Jazz season has come to a close. Now a brief intermission, which gives us all the chance to stretch our legs, use the restroom, and go get the cherry lifesavers we saw when we walked in. It also gives us the chance to talk about the First Act. The first half of the Jazz season had some award winning performances by a great cast, but also injuries to others that have given the understudies the opportunity to show they deserve a chance to bow at the final curtain call. Their record currently rests at 24-17. 41 games completed, with 41 still to go.

Listed below are some observations, thoughts, compliments, and gut feelings on the first act, and what we can expect in the SECOND ACT.

CAST

(Lead Actors)

Deron Williams- Although we didn't see this character until part way through the opening act, his performance has shown he is qualified to lead. D-Will has played well over the past 15 or so games, and seems to be finally overcoming his injuries. A recent physical road trip has still left D-Will less than 100%. However, he has a drive to succeed, and should show great talent and leadership over the next 41 games.

Paul Millsap- With the normal lead character Carlos Boozer on the inactive list due to injuries, his understudy, Paul Millsap has stepped into the starting role and proven he is...a beast. Millsap has had some of his own injuries to deal with, but seems determined to prove he is worthy of a starting position.

Mehmet Okur-Okur has shown glimpses of All Star Performances, yet consistency continues to remain his greatest challenge. He continues to deal with an ill father back home in Turkey. If the last 10 games are any indication of his performance in the second half, then I expect great things from number 13.

(Supporting Cast)

Andrei Kirilenko, Ronnie Brewer, CJ Miles, Kyle Korver, Ronnie Price, Brevin Knight, Kosta Koufus- Each has had games where they have shown their ability to shine, yet each has struggled to find and maintain their presence on the stage. Perhaps a little stage fright? AK continues to perform admirably, but his performances seem more and more like he is tired of the same old lines and is just going through the motions of reading his lines. (On a side note: AK's wife Masha has a clothing store, and her television and radio commercials are among my top ten most entertaining.) Brewer still can't shoot, and CJ still can't defend. Our back-up guards are adequate for what we require, but will forever remain understudies. Kosta is an up-and-coming star, who may one day get to see his name in bright lights. Kyle (I could get lost in those eyes) Korver has struggled with his own injuries, but is still finding ways to contribute to the performances.

(Orchestra Pit)

Carlos Boozer, Matt Harpring, Jaron Collins, Krylo Fesenko, Morris Almond- Sadly for these gentleman their performances, or lack there of, have sent them into the orchestra pit. Matt Harpring may have the ability to return to his role in the supporting cast, but for the time being, injuries and lack of consistent talent have kept these five stars off-stage. There is hope that Carlos Boozer can once again return to the stage and perform his great 20 and 10 soliloquy, but until then Paul Millsap has the limelight.

Playbill comments on ACT TWO

Carlos Boozer will return to the starting line-up and with a healthy and rejuvenated cast the team will finish the season with a record of 51-31. This will not, however be enough to win the Northwest Division, but will be enough to garnish the 6th seed in the West. This will match us up against the New Orleans Hornets in the first round of the playoffs. The Jazz will defeat the Hornets in 6 games and move into the second round of the playoffs. This sadly is where this seasons' curtain closes on our performers. We will stand and applaud their performance, but there will be no encore...bring up the house lights,...please pick up your lifesaver wrappers on your way out. Drive Safe.

1991 Diet Pepsi Commercial

Just a little stroll down memory lane.

I love D-Will, but I will always miss John.

"Hot" Rod Hundley's 3,000th game

If you have listened or watched a Jazz game in the last 35 years then you certainly know who "Hot Rod" is. Hot Rod will call his 3,000th game tonight as the Jazz take on the Hornets. Below is a excerpt from the Jazz website:

Legendary Utah Jazz broadcaster “Hot” Rod Hundley will call his 3,000th Jazz game when the team hosts the New Orleans Hornets on Wednesday, January 7. Hundley is currently in his fourth season as the radio voice of the Jazz after 31 years as the play-by-play voice of Jazz radio/television simulcasts. The only member of the original New Orleans Jazz staff to remain with the team all 35 seasons, he joined the organization prior to the expansion team’s inaugural season in 1974-75 and moved with the team when it relocated to Salt Lake City in 1979-80. (Utah Jazz)

Some Popular “Hot” Rod-isms:
“With a gentle push, and a mild arc, the old cowhide globe hits home.”
“Yo-yoing”
“Leapin’ leaner”
“Hippity-hop”
“Good if it goes!”
“Frozen rope”
“Belt-high dribble”
“It’s in the ol’ refrigerator.”
“Looking down the barrel”
“You gotta love it, baby!”

Several seasons ago Hot Rod moved back to only broadcasting on the radio. A move that brought Craig Bolerjack back to announcing sports in Utah. I am a fan of Boler and am even enjoying Ron Boone more recently. However, no one will ever be able to replace the legend that is Hot Rod. Those of us who grew up listening to Hot Rod know that his personal life included "the bottle," yet he always seemed to show up in time to call the game for us.

As the years pass, it seems as though Hot Rod, like many of the great veteran NBA players, has "lost a step." It is difficult for me to listen to his radio broadcasts without feeling a bit of sadness and longing for the good ol' days when he knew who we were playing, and could pronounce the names of the players. Still, when it comes to Hot Rod, "you got to love him baby."

I am sure the time will come when he will disappear from the game. Many will praise his work and remember his name long after he is gone. But I don't think a man of his greatness will simply pass away; rather I think with " a gentle push, and a mild arc" he will sort of just hit home. And when that day comes, I imagine a banner with his name will be raised, and during every Jazz game, Hot Rod will be calling the game for those who have gone before us. He may even have a bottle in his hands. Congratulations Hot Rod.

Barden's goals for 2009

As the calender rolls into another January, it is quite common for individuals to set goals for the upcoming year. Barden is no different, and below is a sample of Barden's goals for 2009.

1. Eat more salad
2. Eat more steak!
3. Watch less television
4. Watch more sports
5. Get to bed a little earlier
6. Take more naps
7. Read more novels
8. Read less nutrition labels
9. Compliment others more
10. Criticize less
11. Travel more
12. Laugh more
13. Write more
14. Love more
15. Drool less in my sleep