The Utah Jazz just landed two of the most promising players in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft.
First, they rolled the dice on Ace Bailey, perhaps the most controversial among high-end prospects.
Then, they landed Walter Clayton Jr.
That’s why Matt Norlander of CBS Sports believes they added the two best tough-shot makers in the entire class.
“Utah drafted the two best tough shot-makers in the entire draft,” Norlander said.
“Utah drafted the two best tough shot-makers in the entire draft.”@MattNorlander breaks down what to expect out of the new Jazz duo in Utah. 👀 pic.twitter.com/753MG1fHmV
— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) June 26, 2025
He gushed about both of those players’ abilities to finish through contact and make breathtaking buckets despite having no clear look at the rim.
Even so, the Jazz’s draft night didn’t come without risk and controversy.
There were multiple reports about Ace Bailey not wanting to play for them.
He refused to work out for them, and he certainly didn’t look happy when the Jazz took him.
Some NBA scouts and even players believe that Bailey is the most talented player in this class.
Nevertheless, he’s also quite raw.
Playing in Utah will allow him to grow through his mistakes without any rush or pressure, as they’re still going through a rebuild, and they will give him as many touches as he needs to develop.
He has to improve his shot selection and become a more consistent defender, but he has the physical tools to be one of the best three-level scorers in the game a couple of years from now.
As for Clayton, he will have plenty of competition for minutes in the backcourt, but given his toughness and high basketball IQ, he should be in the running to be the starting point guard.
NEXT: Ace Bailey Admits He Was Surprised About Jazz Drafting Him
