Jimmer Fredette is back in the NBA, but this time is different

What has changed

There are two major critiques that are facing the return of Jimmer. The first is that he is all offense and a major defensive liability. Although it is no secret that the CBA is not the NBA as far as talent goes, it is worth noting that this season Fredette was second in the CBA in steals per game. Jimmer doesn’t have to be a defensive specialist in the NBA, in fact he doesn’t even have to be average to be worth putting on the court. Jimmer just needs to good enough to not be the liability that he was a few years ago when in the NBA.

The second critique is that five teams were unable to find a good spot for Jimmer, why would any other team be able to? This argument is a valid concern, but there is one thing that Jimmer has not had with the Kings, Bulls, Pelicans, Knicks or Spurs, a green light.

Kyle Korver is a perfect example of what Jimmer needs to have. The Jazz have essentially brought in Korver to play 15-20 minutes shoot seven or eight shots and make about 50% of them. Jimmer could fill this role, but he needs a green light. He can’t be taken out of a game for just two or three missed shots like he was in Sacramento.

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We are just excited for Jimmer and we hope for the best for him and his career going forward. Perhaps the most ironic and interesting part about all of this is that his first game back in the NBA may be next Monday against the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake.

Welcome to March Madness.