Northwest Updates: Jazz, K. George, Wolves, R. Williams, A. Mitchell
Austin Ainge, the new president of basketball operations for the Utah Jazz, has set clear expectations for the team’s performance this season. Back in June, he emphasized that the Jazz would not engage in tanking for the 2025/26 season. As the season progresses, the Jazz have shown commitment to that promise with a current record of 2-2. They secured wins against the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns but faced narrow losses to the Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers by just three points combined.
Keyonte George’s Emergence
A significant storyline in the early weeks of the season is the remarkable play of point guard Keyonte George. Through four games, George is averaging 22.3 points and 9.3 assists per game. He credits his growth to guidance from team executives Danny Ainge, Justin Zanik, and head coach Will Hardy.
“My exit interview was pretty blunt,” George reflected. “It was basically about—‘It’s time to grow up.’” Despite facing challenges with his three-point shooting percentage (22.2%) and averaging 4.3 turnovers per game, George’s defensive effort has been impressive. His willingness to prioritize his teammates over personal scoring highlights a shift in his approach this season.
- Points per game: 22.3
- Assists per game: 9.3
- Three-point shooting: 22.2%
- Turnovers per game: 4.3
Troubles for the Timberwolves
Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves are facing challenges early in the season. Their defense, traditionally a pillar of their game, is currently ranked 24th in the NBA. The team has a 2-3 record and a defensive rating of 119.5, a significant drop from last season’s sixth-place finish at 110.8.
Head coach Chris Finch has addressed the need for improvement from key defensive players Jaden McDaniels and Rudy Gobert. Finch urged, “Jaden’s gotta be better at the point of attack, into his guy a little bit more. Rudy’s gotta challenge more stuff at the rim.”
Trail Blazers and Robert Williams Update
In other news, Trail Blazers center Robert Williams has been upgraded to questionable for an upcoming game against Denver, following knee problems that have limited his participation. He managed only 20 games last season and did not take part in the preseason.
Thunder’s Ajay Mitchell Signs New Contract
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Ajay Mitchell is making an impact off the bench. After a challenging rookie season marked by toe surgery, Mitchell signed a three-year contract worth $8.7 million in July. His early performance includes an average of 18.5 points per game, which has already demonstrated value exceeding his current contract terms.
This deal is expected to significantly benefit the Thunder as they prepare for potential extensions for players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren in the upcoming seasons.
