Grading Jazz Drafting Keyonte George No. 16 Overall

What are the Utah Jazz getting in Keyonte George and how does he fit?

Author:
Alex White
Publish date:
Jun 23, 2023 11:09 AM EDT

In this story:

Utah Jazz

If you like scoring, this is a pick for you. With the 16th pick in the 2023 NBA draft, the Utah Jazz selected Baylor guard Keyonte George.

What are the Jazz getting? Let’s dive in.

Stats: 15.3 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.1 SPG, 37.6% FG, 33.8% FG, 79.3% FT

Measurables: 6-foot-4, 201 pounds. (George didn’t participate in the NBA Draft Combine so measurements are unofficial.)

Offensive Skill Set

Possibly the best pure scorer in the draft, George can put up points in bunches. He is a tough shot taker and a tough shot maker.

The part that excites me most about George is his potential to develop into a primary creator for the Jazz. He was asked to play alongside a couple of veteran guards for Baylor last year but he still flashed his potential as a passer.

With NBA space, I expect George to blossom in a similar mold as Jamal Murray. The improvement areas for George are going to be upping his efficiency scoring the ball while continuing to develop as a playmaker.

Defensive Skill Set

George has a strong build combined with plus positional size for a point guard. He wasn’t heavily regarded for his defense at Baylor but he’s better than people give him credit for.

The Jazz have surrounded him with length, which will only help George adjust to the NBA game.

Bottom Line

I love this selection for the Jazz. They found a three-level scorer at a position of need. George has as much star potential as many of the guys selected in the top 6.

Jazz CEO Danny Ainge and crew hit a home run with this one. Welcome to Utah!