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

Barden's Holiday Music List

BEST

Silent Night

O Holy Night

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas

Silver Bells

O Little Town of Bethlehem

WORST

Santa Baby

Feliz Navidad

Hey Santa

Barking dogs 'Jingle Bells'

Anything by Gloria Estefan

I love Art!

Brian Regan is my favorite comedian. This past weekend I had his bit about art stuck in my head. I laugh each time he discusses his view of Abstract Art. Enjoy.

Yelling for Free Stuff!

Those who know me well know one of my biggest pet peeves is fans who jump up and down, yell, scream, wave their arms, and push old ladies out of the way, all in the name of getting some free items thrown at them in a sporting event. These items may include Frisbees, t-shirts, balls, and any other item donated by a sponsor all for the good of the crowd.

Why are we so excited about free stuff? Is it the actual enjoyment of potentially getting a new 'precious' gift? Or is it merely that we want to be the one who caught the prize when no one else did? Do we just want people to look at us with envy when we caught the t-shirt with the Taco Bell logo on the back?

There are three exceptions when acting like a lunatic for a free Phillips 66 mini-ball, or other item are permitted. They include:

1. When attending a sporting event with a child and the desired prize is sought after for the child. (No distinction needed between wanting said child to think you are the greatest, or whether you want other children to think you are the greatest.)
2. When the free prize value exceeds $25.00 (no less people)
3. When the giveaway item is tickets to additional events.

I am not suggesting that giveaway items in a sporting event are not a valuable part of the event; just the opposite. Giveaway items are an integral part in developing future fans, and fortifying future marital relationships. Let me explain by using an example.

While attending a recent Utah Jazz home game my brother commented how the team mascot always seemed to give his 'free' items away to small children, namely little girls. He suggested this was a waste. I disagreed. In fact I would argue that all free giveaway items be dispersed to the young girls in attendance. Why? I believe it is imperative that all young girls leave sporting events feeling that the experience was a positive one. One young girl who has positive memories of sports, is one future husband who can watch sporting events without their better-half becoming....shall we say disgruntled.

So the next time you are sitting upper bowl and someone walks onto the court or field with a free item in their hand, decide whether your needs for that item fall under the three allowable criteria. If not, now is a good time to catch your breath and rest up for the next big play.

Where were you?

Do you remember where you were when John Stockton sent the Utah Jazz to the NBA Finals?