I found it interesting that when coach Q made the factual statement that (in so many words) the the Jazz are not in the same league as the Thunder, it was met with general praise. When Big Al made a similar comment (also completely factual) about the Spurs back in 2012, he was widely criticized.
I think the main difference is contextual: (1) the current Jazz are building with hope for improvement and QS wants the Jazz to see "what good looks like" and aspire to this level of play. While the 2012 Jazz were stuck with an above average team and not much hope to take the next step without retooling the roster. (2) In the playoffs versus preseason.
Do you think there is more to it than that?
I think the main difference is contextual: (1) the current Jazz are building with hope for improvement and QS wants the Jazz to see "what good looks like" and aspire to this level of play. While the 2012 Jazz were stuck with an above average team and not much hope to take the next step without retooling the roster. (2) In the playoffs versus preseason.
Do you think there is more to it than that?