Jerry Sloan: The Jazz need a coach who creates a positive atmosphere. Jerry is too negative. He's always harping on what's wrong. He creates the very "play not to lose" attitude that he is trying to eliminate. The players are afraid of taking chances late in the game because with Jerry the risks of mistakes carry far more weight than the rewards of being a hero. We all saw that the 6-1 Jazz were making defensive mistakes. But, instead of enjoying the success with his players, Jerry was constantly pointing out the negative. That much focus on problems makes it hard for players to stay positive, especially when things are not going your way. Jerry simply doesn't know how to have fun, and let's face it, when you're not having fun, you're not going to win.

I would give Kirk Snyder and Kris Humphries lots of playing time for the rest of the season. That will ensure a better position in the lottery and give the coaches a chance to decide if those two are keepers or not. Besides, they are both fun to watch even though they make lots of rookie mistakes. The higher draft pick will give the Jazz a shot at a player that really deserves to be a max money guy.

Dave Wallentine

Salt Lake City

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Don't blame Sloan

You can't fault Coach Sloan. Last year's squad overachieved because they played hard and left it on the floor night after night. This year's group has not showed that determination as often. Okur came to camp out of shape and thus in Jerry's doghouse, like another center we remember all too well. Boozer is a good offensive player, but his defense sucks. Spending big money does not always buy a winner no matter how much you go over the pluses and minuses. I feel that Boozer and Okur will pan out for the future, as will first-round draft choices Humphries and Snyder. Remember that the conference the Jazz play in is as tough as any in the NBA. There is a chance for somewhat of a turnaround, but the playoffs are out of the question. Play out the year and hope for a top lottery spot? They will play Jerry ball and try to win every game, and if they get into a lottery position so be it. But Sloan will never tank the remainder of the season for that. He will continue to coach and teach in his unique style. If all the Jazz played with the effort of Kirilenko and Bell, some of those tough losses would have gone the other way. Granted, having Andrei out hurt, but the rest needed to step up and play harder and smarter. Maybe they need to take the example of the New England Patriots and play TEAM ball.

Jim Barger

Cedar City

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