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Dark Horse Contenders

Even though it?s way too early in the season, the 2-0 Jazz are beginning to look like a dark horse contender in the western conference. Don?t forget that the Jazz also had a strong opening last season, before Kirilenko and Bozzer went down. This Jazz team is much more improved than last year?s and barring any unforeseen injuries, they could make it back to the playoffs.

Utah?s strength lays in its front line. Mehmet Okur is in shape and has been posting some impressive numbers. Okur is a match-up nightmare for opposing centers. He brings a uniquely diverse and impressive range of offensive skills to the table. While he is strong under the basket, he scores most of his points using his soft jump shot. He is a very strong rebounder who could easily average a double-double this season.

The Jazz will also be getting back Carlos Bozzer who is expected to return from injury within a week. Jazz fans do not know what to expect from Boozer in 2006. Bozzer posted some nice numbers last year before he got hurt. Will his return be a good thing or a bad thing for the Jazz? When Bozzer is in the line up, Kirilenko moves to the small forward position where he is not as effective.