The Utah Jazz has improved their chances of having success next season vs. NBA sportsbook odds with the addition of Al Jefferson. The Jazz lost Carlos Boozer in free agency so the addition of Jefferson will be huge. Utah should again be a contender vs. NBA lines at the offshore sportsbook next season.
Sportsbook odds favored the Jazz more often than not last season. Boozer was a big part of Utah’s offense as he averaged 19.5 points per game. Utah has now replaced his scoring with Jefferson who poured in 23.1 points per game. The Jazz are expected to give up two future first-round picks in exchange for Jefferson. The Jazz have the money to pay Jefferson since they sent Boozer to Chicago in a sign and trade deal.
Jefferson came to Minnesota in 2007 from Boston in the big Kevin Garnett deal. He has played well for Minnesota and was their leading scorer last season. Jefferson signed a big deal with Minnesota a few years ago and has been their main offensive threat. Minnesota wanted to shed his salary though and build for the future. They were able to get Michael Beasley from Miami for next to nothing so they were able to trade Jefferson.
Utah is hoping that Jefferson will be able to do just what Boozer did for them. The one advantage for Utah is that Jefferson is three years younger. The disadvantage is that Jefferson has been known to have off the court troubles.
Utah won 53 games during the regular season and they were 49-30-3 last season against the point spread at the offshore sportsbook. Utah was 26-13-2 at home and they even had a winning record against the number on the road as they went 23-17-1. Boozer was the leading scorer and rebounder and he also led the team in field goal percentage so Jefferson is stepping into some large shoes. He may also not get as much playing time as Boozer got since Paul Millsap is coming on fast. It will also take time for Jefferson to develop chemistry with Deron Williams who has fed Boozer the ball for years. The Jazz were fourth in the NBA in points per game last season so Jefferson will need to contribute right away.