Illini's Williams may be just what Jazz need

Deron Williams knows what the Jazz need.

He is ready to bring it, too — should Utah somehow figure out a way to land the University of Illinois point guard in Tuesday's NBA Draft.

"I think I can come in . . . and contribute right away," he said after auditioning Thursday morning for Jazz management, scouts and coaches. "I think I can learn any offense. Give me time, and I'm going to learn it and I'm going to know how to run it.

"I know how to control the tempo of the offense," added Williams, who took the Illini to this year's NCAA title game in just a two-loss season. "I know you like to push it, but also you've got to know when to not push it. I think I'm really good at that."

Just what the doctor ordered for a Jazz team that, assuming Raul Lopez leaves as expected to play next season in Spain, has no point guards from its 2004-05 roster under contract for next season, right?

So it may seem.

Securing the cure to the Jazz's ills, however, is not nearly as simply as driving to the closest pharmacy.

Asked Thursday if he expects to be one of the draft's top five picks, Williams answered in the affirmative: "It's looking that way," he said.

A team like Orlando might trade up to take him at No. 3. New Orleans is said to have serious interest at No. 4. Charlotte could tap him at No. 5 if the draft's other top point, Chris Paul, is gone to Portland or some other club at 3.

Then why work out for a team like the Jazz, whose highest pick Tuesday is No. 6?

In part, it's because he truly is interested in toiling here.

"I definitely think Utah would be a place where I would love to play, especially under coach (Jerry) Sloan," he said. "I think he's a great coach, and he has a lot to offer me."

Another part: Because there might just be something to the speculation that suggests the Jazz are trying hard to trade up.

"I'm not close on anything right now. There's been no substantive talks, really," said Kevin O'Connor, the Jazz's senior vice president of basketball operations. "I mean, we're still continuing — and I would expect that to happen right up until the draft."

If the Jazz could get to No. 3, they probably would have their choice between Williams and Wake Forest University's Paul.