|
Post by thegame - MIA - UTA on Aug 19, 2008 23:09:39 GMT -5
It`s a great honor to announce that one of the greatest pg in NBA history is now part of the Utah Jazz. Today i would like to announce Kevin Johnson as the Assistant General Manager of the Utah Jazz. Kevin Johnson blesses Utah with his vast knowledge of the game. I hope this partnership between Kevin and I can bring Utah its first title. I`ll now pass the mic over to Kevin.
|
|
|
Post by lakrsfn24 - UTA on Aug 19, 2008 23:29:30 GMT -5
Thank you, I appreciate the introduction.
First I want to say that it's great to be back in the NBA. I've been gone too long and when this offer was presented to me, I had to jump on it. Not only do I feel like Utah is on the right road, but I feel like it's a great place for me to raise my family as well. I look forward to having a strong working relationship with the players and coaching staff as we move forward into the rest of this year and hopefully many successful years beyond.
I'll open the floor to any questions that you guys might have.
|
|
|
Post by scrapz3 - former SAS on Aug 20, 2008 1:37:26 GMT -5
ESPN: Question for Utah Jazz head gm:
Why did you choose too bring back Kevin Johnson instead of someone like John Stockton, who was such a great inspiration and force there in utah.
|
|
|
Post by thegame - MIA - UTA on Aug 20, 2008 2:41:58 GMT -5
John was great for this franchise but Kevin and me aka Reggie Miller are two past legend still searching for the same goal which is the ring. John Stockton has not shown any interest to return to the front office although the offer has been on the table for the past 6 seasons. With Kevin Johnson we add experience and a man who has 14 years of sim experience. I don't know about you but a man with that track record is guarantee any job associated with the Jazz.
|
|
|
Post by Phoenix Suns on Aug 20, 2008 11:26:07 GMT -5
Phoenix Herald Reporter:
First off, I'd like to welcome Kevin back to the NBA! What will be your main focus with the deadline looming, will you guys be sellers, buyers or just watch from the sidelines?
|
|
|
Post by lakrsfn24 - UTA on Aug 20, 2008 14:25:07 GMT -5
Thank you, it's great to be back.
Coming up on the deadline, which as we all know is approaching quickly, we plan on evaluating the roster that we have and doing any adjustments we deem necessary. I could sit here and say we'll be buyers but honestly, it takes two to tango, and there's never a guarantee that two sides can match up on a deal.
That plus the fact that it seems to me this team is really beginning to gel and I'm not sure it would be the smartest thing in the world to mess with that. Chemistry goes a lot further on the basketball court than just trying to go out and stock the most talent. That said, I want to assure everyone here today and the fans of Utah that we WILL put the best team on the court that we're capable of putting out there. Not just for this year but for the years to come. It's going to be a very exciting time to be affiliated with the Utah Jazz, that I can assure you of.
|
|
|
Post by Phoenix Suns on Aug 21, 2008 10:29:22 GMT -5
Good answer.
Is there anyone that can be considered "untouchable" on the Jazz roster?
|
|
|
Post by lakrsfn24 - UTA on Aug 21, 2008 13:08:09 GMT -5
Untouchable? I don't think it would benefit the effort of our team if we deemed someone untouchable. Guys tend to get relaxed if they think they have complete comfort in their position and we don't want that.
Of course, some players are more secure than others, and I think it's obvious to everyone involved who is who. But am I going to say there's an untouchable on this roster? Absolutely not. I could say that and a day later, I get an offer at my doorstep that I can't refuse; then I look like a "liar" or a "backstabber". No, I've seen that happen to people too many times in the past. Like I said earlier, I like our roster, and the chemistry they have achieved but there's always room for a change if such change is needed.
|
|
|
Post by Miami Heat on Aug 21, 2008 14:57:53 GMT -5
Miami Herald: Is it true the Heat GM offered you a backup guard spot but you turned it down to be an asst. with the Jazz?
|
|
|
Post by lakrsfn24 - UTA on Aug 21, 2008 15:18:30 GMT -5
I'd rather not discuss rumors that were floating out there. Supposedly I've been offered a roster spot on various teams since the day I retired. All that matters is that I'm with Utah now and this is where I plan on being for quite some time.
Plus these old legs don't get up and go like they used to.
|
|