NBA: 7 Big Takeaways From The 2016 Offseason

July 26, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; USA guard Kevin Durant (5) is congratulated by forward Draymond Green (14) behind guard Klay Thompson (11) against China in the first quarter during an exhibition basketball game at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 15, 2015; Atlanta, GA, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) and forward Derrick Favors (15) react after defeating the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena. The Jazz defeated the Hawks 97-96. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

I’m afraid about the expectations being placed on the Jazz

As much as I’m rooting for the Utah Jazz as much as the next guy, after all this love and praise that the Jazz seem to be getting as of late, I can’t help but think of what the media did to the Milwaukee Bucks last summer.

After making a surprising run to the playoffs in 2014-15, the Bucks entered last offseason with high hopes. And they only grew after they signed Greg Monroe in free agency. Then, when the 2015-16 season stared, the Bucks completely fell on the faces. They missed the playoffs and struggled their way to 33 wins – eight less than the previous year.

I fear that the same could happen to the Jazz this season. Yes, I know. These are two different scenarios. The Jazz are certainly the more talented team. They’re also further along in their progression as a team. But, to put the expectation of a top 4 team in the West after missing the playoffs completely in 15-16 is not fair.

I hope I’m wrong, though.

Next: A Big Trade?

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