Koufos to Utah

NBADraft2008
Last night, the Utah Jazz took Kosta Koufos in the first round of the 2008 NBA Draft with the 23rd overall selection. This is slightly lower than many pundits had projected Koufos.

As a result of slipping, many judged the selection as great value for the Jazz. ESPN’s Chad Ford had this to say:

Great value pick for the Jazz at No. 23. He could be the second coming of Mehmet Okur -- a sweet-shooting big man who can play inside and outside. If Koufos had stayed in school, he would have been projected as a top-10 pick in 2009, so I don't think the Jazz could have done much better at 23.

The Jazz have a strong frontline and were among the league leaders in rebounding. Their reserves are good as well, with Paul Millsap really developing this season and Jason Collins giving solid minutes off the bench. If Koufos continues to improve his defense and rebounding he may see meaningful minutes in 2008-09.

Jamar Butler or and Othella Hunter went undrafted last night.