Utah Jazz

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Walker Kessler's remarkable evolution as an isolation defender takes center stage in this episode of Locked On Jazz. David Locke, radio voice of the Utah Jazz and Jazz NBA Insider, breaks down Kessler's defensive metrics, comparing him to elite NBA big men like Anthony Davis and Jarrett Allen. The analysis reveals Kessler's significant improvement, defending 155 isolation possessions this season compared to 85 and 89 in his first two years.

The episode also touches on the Jazz's draft positioning, with recent wins by New Orleans and Charlotte impacting Utah's lottery odds. Locke examines the good and bad for the Jazz, including their potential for a top-four pick and concerns about Minnesota's recent success. The show wraps up with a preview of the Memphis Grizzlies game, highlighting their unique offensive approach, and a look at the NBA's Points Gained metric, featuring standout performances from Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and a red-hot Tyrese Haliburton.

0:00 Walker Kessler's defensive development
2:36 Importance of Kessler's isolation defense versatility
4:40 Kessler's isolation defense stats and progression
9:49 Jazz struggle without Kessler in lineup
14:29 Will Hardy on "unselfish champions" and catch-and-shoots
16:33 Good and bad news for Jazz draft position
25:49 Memphis Grizzlies' unique offensive approach
26:51 NBA Points Gained leaders and MVP race
30:27 Hottest and coldest NBA players recently
32:29 Jazz player performance over last 10 games

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