Al Jefferson Ecstatic To Be In Utah

[BAdkins1121]

One of the most talked-about summer moves around Summer League was Utah's acquisition of Al Jefferson. While fans are still buzzing over Miami's triple play, insiders are wondering just how good Utah might be with Jefferson in the mix. There are questions about his defensive abilities, as well as his passing game, both of which will be key as he tries to fit into Jerry Sloan's system; both of which are suspect. Jefferson couldn't be happier with the move, as he recently told KJZZ in Salt Lake City.

"I can't say it enough - It's just a great opportunity for me," said Jefferson. "Now I have no excuses. It's a new beginning for me and I'm just really excited to be a part of this team. It's a dream come true. I grew up watching Karl Malone and the things he did as an undersized four. And Carlos Boozer, I've been defending him for the past six years in this offense. It was hard to defend him and the things he accomplished here, too. I'm next in line. With hard work and dedication, the sky is the limit."

One huge key for Jefferson will be teaming up with All-Star point guard Deron Williams, who has already promised Jefferson a new level of success as a member of the Jazz.


"Having the opportunity to play with him is something I am going to remember the rest of my life," says Jefferson. "If he is not the best point guard in the league, I think he will be the best. The things that he do and how he do it. And the first thing he said to me is that he is going to make me an All-Star. That's my number one thing. Playing for Coach Sloan will have to be up there too. He's a very well respected coach. To have those two guys behind me, supporting me and pushing me, the sky is the limit for me."

One thing the Timberwolves were not concerned about in trading Jefferson was his health. Sources close to the situation told HOOPSWORLD he is in the best shape of his career thanks to an aggressive summer workout schedule.

"I feel like what I am doing right now is working for me," says Jefferson. "In these next two and a half months, if I keep doing what I am doing, my knee is going to be at 110% when the season starts. There is no doubt in my mind my knee will be ready. It will be."

Questions still remain about how much defense Jefferson will play and how well he will pass the ball in Sloan's offense, but he's healthy and approaching the situation with enthusiasm. Jefferson could be the piece that helps Utah compete with the Lakers for Western Conference supremacy.

Jefferson Ecstatic In Utah

[sportsnutzz]

On a personal note, he seems to be much more genuine than Boozer. I hope he really is excited and fully buys into the Jazz system. And also needs to be willing to try new things. Because if he does this might be looked at as a very very good move in a year or 2.

[what54!?]

as he should be. He's finally on a winning team. now play some defense

[celticfan]

we will have to see if he and williams work well together

[cramxc]

I think they will