Maybe the Jazz really want to get rid of both. Young team, new coach, perhaps Milsap and Big Al are bigger pains than we know. Can't perpetuate a culture of losing and isolation.
Milsap never has stepped up to be a veteran leader with his teammates, not all guys are leaders, but I think the jazz expected to get something out of an overpaid & undersized pf. Radio guys were talking about all the Jazz team traditions that died last year. They attributed some of it to several new players and new coach. but wondered why Milsap, as the longest tenured player who played a key part of the team didn't do something--apparently Milsap was content to rush into the locker room and rush off.
Jefferson's psyche was so sensitive that even Ol' Jerry had to cough out little compliments. Jefferson got mad at the reporters when they asked about games or his performance. He jumped on the Jazz tv reporter one night and a few nights later ran out without talking to the media--the Jazz thought it was serious enough that they called for a meeting with his agent. And he didn't seem to take coaching, the jazz had to give up trying to install their offense and everyone stood to watch as the ball went into the post and never came out again.
This is what I'm thinking. Even though he's a great talent, AJ might not be the best fit for this young team. Still, if we do end up keeping him, I'm sure they'll figure it out.
Millsap is a fan favorite, but he's never really been that outspoken. I wouldn't mind keeping him around. I just think it's probably best for Millsap's development and the young guys if he was traded to a team that can use him more. Seems we're set to develop this young team and build for the future. Millsap deserves to go to a contender.
As for the rest of the roster? I like AK as a player, but I don't like his frail body. If we sign him for cheap, cool, if not, that's cool, too.
It'd be nice if we could trade AJ for Rondo and then either use Harris as a backup or possibly package him with AJ or a Millsap deal. Rondo is still pretty young, and we have plenty of weapons. He's a great facilitator and defensive player. I think he could help bring a defensive mentality to this young team.
Of course, Price and Watson will hinge on who we can trade and/or sign before the trade deadline. CJ Miles is not a bad bench guy to have. His contract isn't that bad. If he can come in and knock down some outside shots and make some exciting plays here and there, then there's no reason to not keep around. He seems to go with the flow--the flow of minutes.
Outside of Rondo, I suppose the Jazz could take back expiring contracts with draft picks. Might as well continue the draft strategy. Won't say if it's working or not. Don't want to jinx anything. *Knock on wood*
Lines getting blurrier by the minute.