JazzFan 4 Life

Stats
Height/Weight: 6-11/255 lbs
Games played: 79 (41 starts)
PPG (2005-06 season): 5.6
RPG (2005-06 season): 4.2
Blocks (2005-06 season): 27

What he's good at
Jarron Collins has made a niche for himself on the Jazz as a hard-working player who tries his best to get the most out of his ability. You can pretty much figure that out when a guy has career highs of 22 points and 14 rebounds. The fact Collins has managed to get two different guaranteed NBA contracts during his career is a testament to his willingness to play within his limits and improve himself enough each season to make his paycheck worthwhile. Although Collins had only 27 blocks last year, it was a career high and he posted career highs in rebounds (333) and assists (97). Jarron won't block a lot of shots, but he plays good position defense and doesn't back away from a challenge. He gives the Jazz a different look at center when Okur falls asleep on defense each night.


What he's not-so-good at
Anything overly athletic or quick is pretty much lost on Collins. He's an out-and-out banger in the post and a bit clumsy with the ball (although more graceful than Ostertag ever was). Since Collins is the at times the only guy who will battle on defense in the post for the Jazz, he gets in foul trouble often (252 fouls last year - 2nd on Jazz).


What to expect in 2006-07
It wouldn't be a stretch to expect another Collins-like season this year (6.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg), but I'm thinking he might get closer to 7.1 ppg and 5.5 rpg this year. The Jazz rewarded him with a new contract and the Spurs showed interest in him, so there is talent there that Collins can still use. He always shows up to camp in shape, does what he can do on the floor and has always been on of Jerry Sloan's favorites. If the Jazz are to make it back to the playoffs, either he or Rafael Araujo will have to provide decent scoring when Okur is out of the game.