Several league insiders believe Utah Jazz big man Rudy Gobert is most likely to receive a rookie-scale extension, ESPN’s Marc Stein wrote in a larger piece.
There are also several notable names eligible for extensions before the Halloween horn, which ensues some action.
Most league insiders agree that Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert remains the most likely candidate, of the 2013 first-rounders still on the board, to land an extension by month’s end. The French Rejection — or Stifle Tower, if you insist — is one of the foremost draft steals of recent vintage, ranks as a leading NBA Defensive Player of the Year favorite and stands as a key figure in Utah’s rise in the West.
The deadline for players from the 2013 draft class to be signed to a rookie-scale extension is October 31st, which is roughly two weeks away.
Only two players from the class of 2013 have received extensions, with that being Portland’s C.J. McCollum (four-years, $106 million) and Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo (four-years, $100 million).
Rudy Gobert is widely viewed as a top candidate to have his contract extended with the Jazz due to his improving play since entering the league. He’s made a name for himself with Utah, quickly becoming one of the top, if not the top, rim protector in the NBA.
The Jazz value what Gobert brings to the table, and recognize his importance towards the overall goal of improving over time with hopes of one day becoming a contender. They also understand that keeping him could help entice Gordon Hayward, who’s set to become a free agent next summer, to re-sign with the team.
Rudy Gobert averaged 9.1 points, 11 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game last season for the Jazz. He allowed a league-best 41% of shots at the rim to go in last season, further proving his worth as a defensive anchor on a young, budding Jazz team still on the rise.
