The tank was real in Utah. Nobody can deny it. The League handed down discipline once it caught on that the Jazz purposely sat players late in games to ensure a lottery spot.
The Lead previews the Utah Jazz's 2026-27 season, arguing that the franchise has positioned itself for a potential playoff push following an intentional tanking campaign that resulted in a 22-60 record. Head coach Will Hardy will look to integrate star big man Jaren Jackson Jr. alongside forward Lauri Markkanen and guard Keyonte George, who signed a five-year, $157.5 million extension. The roster underwent significant changes, including trading center Walker Kessler to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The preview highlights key additions such as Darryn Peterson, Josh Green, Josh Okogie, Jaxson Hayes, and Mo Bamba, alongside developing young talents Ace Bailey and Brice Sensabaugh. The Lead notes that Utah's ceiling depends heavily on defensive improvements, health, and center play from Jusuf Nurkic and Hayes, projecting the team's best-case scenario as the Western Conference's sixth seed.
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