Locked On Jazz - Daily Podcast On The Utah Jazz

Utah Jazz shake up the Western Conference playoff picture with their projected win total and aggressive roster moves. Can the duo of Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. elevate the Jazz into serious contention, even without a bonafide top-10 NBA superstar? David Locke breaks down the implications of Utah’s high-level offense, defensive questions, and the potential for young prospects like Keyonte George and Walker Kessler to develop into franchise cornerstones.
Key discussion points include salary cap challenges looming with Markkanen and Jackson Jr.’s hefty contracts, the trade market surrounding Kessler, and whether restricted free agency could threaten Utah’s core. Insightful takes on Walker Kessler’s future, Isaiah Collier’s NBA outlook, and the Jazz’s offseason needs—such as wing defense and elite shooting—round out the analysis. Will roster playmaking or a rising draft pick push Utah to a top-six seed, or is a title run still out of reach?
00:00: Jazz Win Projections & Roster Moves
12:43: Salary Cap & Walker Kessler Trade Analysis
25:14 : Offseason Needs, Extensions & Rapid Fire Q&A
Utah Jazz, Jazz news, Jazz rumors, Utah Jazz podcast, NBA podcast, NBA rumors, Will Hardy, Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, Jaren Jackson Jr, Ace Bailey, Isaiah Collier, Taylor Hendricks, Walter Clayton, Trey Young, Darius Garland, Austin Reaves, NBA trade, NBA draft, Jazz offseason, Western Conference, Locked On Jazz, basketball news, NBA salary cap\
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DoorDash
From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.
Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.
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Download the PrizePicks app today and use codeLOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
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Quo
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Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
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Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.
 
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
 
 
 

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David Locke and Ron Boone bring you POSTCAST after every Utah Jazz game

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Utah Jazz face a challenging puzzle integrating Jaren Jackson Jr. into Will Hardy’s offensive system. Can a defensive powerhouse adapt when his offensive fit is far from seamless? David Locke explores Jackson Jr.’s unique skill set, breaking down concerning trends in rim finishing, pick-and-roll inefficiency, and a dramatic drop in usage and free throw rates. With Jackson’s offensive metrics hovering below league average—and his role potentially shifting to a fourth option behind Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen, and Ace Bailey—the Jazz must find creative ways to maximize his impact.
Key discussion points include Jackson Jr.’s improvement in isolation plays and catch-and-shoot threes, the implications of his evolving shot selection, and the challenge of matching his needs to Utah’s off-ball, motion-heavy scheme. David Locke explains why careful lineup building and “massaging” usage rates will be vital. Will Jackson Jr. thrive in a reduced role, or will his offensive limitations hamper Utah’s playoff aspirations?
00:00  — Jaren Jackson Jr. Offensive Fit
09:01  — Role in Jazz Offensive Schemes
20:12  — Isolation, Shooting, & Lineup Solutions
 
Everydayer Club  
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

 
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 
DoorDash
From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.
Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.
DoorDash. In your bag all season long.
PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use codeLOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA
Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.
Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist.  Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. 
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.
 
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)
 
Everydayer Club  
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

 
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 
DoorDash
From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.
Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.
DoorDash. In your bag all season long.
PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use codeLOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA
Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.
Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist.  Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. 
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.
 
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Utah Jazz target Defensive Dominance with Jaren Jackson Jr.—is an elite frontcourt transformation on the way? David Locke uncovers how Jackson’s unique blend of length, shot-blocking, and rim protection could reshape the team’s identity, spotlighting his synergy with Walker Kessler. Discover why Jackson’s 7’5” wingspan and 9’2” standing reach place him among NBA elite defenders like Anthony Davis and Brook Lopez, and how his role at power forward maximizes Utah’s defensive potential.
Key topics include the Jazz’s strategic pairing of Jackson and Kessler, Jaren’s isolation and screen defense metrics, and his impact on limiting rim attempts and field goal percentages. David Locke examines Jackson’s rebounding challenges, recent dips in block rate, Will Hardy’s potential system tweaks, and what Jazz fans can expect as the franchise prioritizes defense in the loaded Western Conference. Can Utah leverage Jackson’s elite skill set to return to the postseason spotlight?
 
00:00 - Jaren Jackson Defensive Profile
08:46 - Defensive Impact and Rim Protection
25:41 - Isolation & Screen Defense Analysis
 
Everydayer Club  
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

 
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life. 
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. 
 
DoorDash
From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.
Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.
DoorDash. In your bag all season long.
PrizePicks
Download the PrizePicks app today and use codeLOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.
Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA
Quo
Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.
Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.
Betterhelp
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist.  Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA. 
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONfor $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.
FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.
 
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Utah Jazz fans rejoice—the rebuild is over. The Utah Jazz electrify their base by landing Jaren Jackson Jr., signaling a dramatic shift from patient restructuring to playoff ambitions. Is this the beginning of a new era for Jazz basketball? David Locke breaks down how Jackson Jr.’s arrival, fresh off a stint as NBA Defensive Player of the Year and multiple All-Star selections, transforms the Jazz defense and creates an elite frontcourt when paired with Walker Kessler. Keyonte George’s breakout and Lauri Markkanen’s resurgence are spotlighted as catalysts making this bold move possible.
With Jackson Jr. anchoring the power forward spot, the Utah Jazz focus on switching, shot-blocking, and a newfound ability to compete nightly in the Western Conference. Can Will Hardy harness this revamped roster into a playoff contender? Key topics include salary cap implications, lineup projections, and how this blockbuster trade realigns the franchise’s trajectory. Don’t miss the most jubilant Jazz breakdown in years.
 
00:00  — Jazz Rebuild Is Over: Fan Reaction & Celebration
11:03  — Trade Impact & Team Outlook Since October
17:43  — Jaren Jackson Jr.: Fit, Strengths, Weaknesses
27:30  — JJJ's Offensive Game Analysis

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