From Utah Jazz On SI · · 3m
Utah Jazz aim to end four-year playoff drought in 2026-27
After years of tanking, the Jazz have a revamped roster ready to compete in the Western Conference again.
In brief
After years of tanking, the Jazz have a revamped roster ready to compete in the Western Conference again. The Jazz are positioned to return to the playoffs through the play-in tournament after four years of rebuilding. Originally reported by Utah Jazz On SI.
Jazz ready for a fresh start
Utah tips off the 2026-27 season expecting a major turnaround after four years of struggles. The roster is more talented and well-rounded than the 22-win team from last season.
Competing, not tanking anymore
The newly constructed Jazz roster aims to make noise in the Western Conference instead of chasing top lottery odds. Utah is ready to win games again.
Defense could reach top 20
The Jazz have ranked in the bottom two defensively for three straight years. Reaching 20th would still be below average, but it's a meaningful step forward.
New defenders join the roster
Jaren Jackson will play more than three games this time. Veterans Josh Okogie and Josh Green add perimeter defense while young players continue developing.
Building blocks for the future
A top-20 defensive finish would give Utah something concrete to build on. Young pieces like Keyonte George, Ace Bailey, and Darryn Peterson will keep improving.
Markkanen eyes second All-Star bid
Lauri Markkanen last made the All-Star game in 2022-23 when he won Most Improved Player. Another appearance is within reach this season.
Career-best numbers when healthy
Markkanen averaged over 26 points per game on 47.7-35.5-89.6 splits last year despite playing only 42 games. He added seven rebounds and two assists nightly.
More wins help All-Star case
As a primary scoring option on a winning team, Markkanen will be tough to keep out of All-Star festivities. Utah's improved record will boost his visibility.
Peterson in Rookie of the Year race
The second overall pick faces stiff competition from the top four draft picks. But Darryn Peterson has the talent to average 20 points as a rookie.
Competitive team helps rookie shine
Peterson can impact both ends of the floor and benefits from playing on a more competitive team. His contributions will be more noticeable than rookies on tanking squads.
Early start could seal the award
Peterson must beat out AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Caleb Wilson. If he booms early and finds a starting spot before December, he's the favorite.
“If he booms early and can find a starting spot before December, watch out.”
Four years since playoff basketball
The Jazz haven't reached the postseason since trading Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert in 2022. This revamped core is hungry to end the drought.
Best roster since the reset
Utah has size, youth, and offensive firepower. With even modest defensive improvement, they're a good bet to finish in the top eight in the West.
Play-in path to the playoffs
A top-six seed might be out of reach this season. But a play-in appearance and a win to claim one of the final two playoff spots feels just right.
What matters most
The Jazz are positioned to return to the playoffs through the play-in tournament after four years of rebuilding.
