"I can't say enough about Deron's improvement," said Jazz coach Jerry Sloan.

Asked if he could imagine a team without Williams, Sloan said, "Well, yeah, we lost 56 games (2004-05)."

Sloan added, "I don't think we'll likely let him get away."

But Williams getting away is a real possibility. He clearly has high value. He grew up in a big market (Dallas) and certainly wouldn't mind the attention that goes with such a location.

He has quietly chafed when overlooked, while contemporaries like New Orleans' Chris Paul is an All-Star. (Curiously, New Orleans is a smaller market than Salt Lake.)

In larger markets, there are more endorsement opportunities.

Asked at locker clean-out Saturday about the possibility of extending his stay in Utah, Williams replied, "Well, that's the plan. I definitely love it here. We have a great coaching staff and have a chance to win."

Music to Sloan's ears.

"I just like it here," Williams continued. "That's where I want to be, so that's the most important thing."

When a reporter wondered if he would sign a "max contract" deal if offered now, he said, "I haven't thought about it, I have no clue. I'm gonna meet with my agent and I'm gonna call you first."

He may want to call Miller, too, just to put his mind at ease.

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E-mail: rock@desnews.com