The Jazz entered training camp with 13 players – two below the regular-season roster limit – with guaranteed salaries.
That seemingly made it unlikely three Utah players who belong in the NBA – Jeff Withey ($200,000 guaranteed), Elijah Millsap (unguaranteed) and Bryce Cotton (unguaranteed) – would all survive the preseason.
But the Jazz cleared a spot by waiving Grant Jerrett, whose minimum salary was fully guaranteed fro this season.
We have waived Grant Jerrett this morning, roster now stands at 17 players.
— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) October 15, 2015
Best of luck, Grant!! pic.twitter.com/GLbP9O6Ye1
Utah already waived Jack Cooley and J.J. O’Brien. So, Treveon Graham and Chris Johnson remain in competition with Withey, Millsap and Cotton to make the regular-season roster.
My money is on those latter three.Withey has the largest guarantee and has an NBA skill in shot-blocking. Millsap defends well. Cotton might be the least accomplished, but the Jazz could use another point guard with Dante Exum injured.
Jerrett will go on waivers and has an outside shot of being claimed. He’s just 22, and his contract – two unguaranteed seasons following this one – offers upside. Teams value stretch fours like him. Plus, his length and athleticism provide defensive potential. Most likely, though, his injuries cause teams to pass.