The Utah Jazz are buzzing with excitement about their future, and while much of the focus is on the upcoming season, rookie Ace Bailey is quietly making waves. Though he hasn't dominated the scene just yet, his raw talent is turning heads and sparking enthusiasm among Jazz fans.
Bailey, primarily a wing player, has drawn intriguing comparisons to a former NBA legend familiar to Jazz followers: Ray Allen. Jazz assistant coach Jason Terry recently highlighted Bailey's potential in an interview, likening his shooting form to that of Allen's.
“There’s no limit for Ace Bailey, because he’s a blank canvas,” Terry remarked. “He’s only 19, raw but with supreme athleticism.
His shooting ability-he could become one of the great long-range shooters. His quick release is reminiscent of Ray Allen’s, though he doesn’t jump as high.
But his ability to get that shot off quickly is impressive.”
For those who remember Allen’s game, his jumper was his signature, overshadowing even his overall basketball prowess. His shooting form is often mentioned alongside legends like Stephen Curry, Larry Bird, and Kevin Durant.
Currently, Bailey is hitting 33.5% from beyond the arc. While not exceptional, it’s evident to those watching that his form is promising. Improvement might just be a matter of more practice.
If Bailey can carve out a career akin to Ray Allen’s, the Jazz have indeed hit the jackpot. It’s ambitious to expect him to become one of the all-time great shooters, but if he develops into a reliable sharpshooter, the Jazz’s potential could skyrocket.
While it’s tough to label the Jazz as contenders for the next season, especially with uncertainties around player health, Bailey’s growth into a solid floor-spacer could make them a formidable opponent.
The Jazz are also focusing on other areas, aiming to bolster their offense and address defensive gaps. If Bailey evolves into a two-way wing and elite shooter, it would be a testament to their savvy decision-making in last year's NBA Draft.