Franklin Covey could help Jazz

You asked for reader response to the Jazz breakdown. The Jazz flop appears to be a lack of motivation rather than a lack of talent and ability. I gather this from statements from the players,the organization and the media.

In our area, we have one of the best success stories in the country of an organization dedicated to promote motivation within corporations and other groups nationwide. I speak of the FranklinCovey group. What a great resource to call upon at this time. I see no difference in the principles which promote motivation within corporate employees versus basketball players and coaches.

Sports employees, even more so, can utilize the principles which this organization and its founder, Stephen Covey, promotes. Larry Miller should know this guy. I observe from reading your newspaper that many different negative labels are attached to the players. I can't help but believe this has an adverse effect on their motivation. It becomes self-fulfilling prophesy. They are human just like everyone else even if they are paid millions of bucks.

Harvey Nielsen

Idaho Falls

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Season a total disappointment

I have been a Jazz fan for almost ten years. I think a lot of fans are totally disappointed about this season. Apparently, there are some problems in the team.

First, defense is not good enough. Some of the players didn't play good defense. Their opponents can score easily.

Second, poor point guard and shooting guard. Lopez, Eisley, Giricek, and Bell's performances are unstable. I think these guys should play like Stockton and Hornacek. Think about why the Suns is in the second place in the league. Everybody knows because Nash is a catalyst for this team. You see how important that Nash for the Phoenix Sun.

Third, there are a lot of fatal turnovers. I don't think a team can win the game when they have over 15 turnovers in that game. Jazz lost a lot of games because of the freaking turnover. Especially Boozer, whose turnover almost four times each game. Gee? Unbelievable?

Fourth, some players are not worth their big contracts. I think Miller should rethink about AK, Giricek and Boozer's contracts. From the marketing's viewpoint, it is OK sign them big contracts. However, if you want to win the NBA title, you need to have guys who are really after the title, not players who care about their salary.

Giving these players huge money didn't mean they will play as hard as they did. Maybe some trade is needed, like trade Arroyo to Detroit to get first pick.