Utah Jazz: Suton playing hard to earn roster spot

MAITLAND, Fla. — After suffering a 31-point loss to the Boston Celtics, the jazz">Utah Jazz fought their way to a tough 83-68 win against the Nets/76ers team Tuesday, improving their record to 1-1.

"The effort and ball movement was much better tonight (Tuesday)," said Jazz assistant coach Scott Layden. "We really had a good camp and good practices, so we were a little stunned by last night's game. It was great that our guys came back."

Improving on Monday's lackluster performance, the Jazz were led by three players in double-figures. Josh Duncan's 5-of-6 shooting helped pave the way for the 46-point turnaround.

"I didn't know a lot about him, but I think he's played really well," Layden said. "Defensively — these things don't always show up in the stat book — he was guarding smaller guys tonight. I thought he did a very good job."

Duncan wasn't the lone member of the Jazz to give a good performance. Kevin Kruger also played an excellent game. He finished with 10 points, four rebounds, and two assists in 13 minutes, shooting 4-of-7 from the field.

"I love Kevin Kruger because he just plays the game," Layden said. "His experience shows when he has the ball in his hands. He's steady. He's got a poise about him that you need from a point guard. He's a very good player."

Also making a major contribution for the Jazz was second-round draft pick Goran Suton. The 23-year-old forward won't get many headlines while playing alongside fellow rookie Eric Maynor, but he's proving that he also has a game that is worthy of mentioning.

"He's a good rebounder. He's a good shooter and I think with his work ethic he'll continue to get better," Layden said.

Good fundamental skills aren't much of a surprise for anyone that has played at Michigan State University. Solid skills and a hard work ethic are expected from anyone that Tom Izzo has coached.

"He's got the opportunity to play for a great coach," Layden said. "He's (Izzo) greatness. Goran owes him a lot."

Coach Layden isn't the only member of the Jazz to recognize Suton's effort and abilitiy.

"He plays hard," Eric Maynor said. "That's what he's going to give us every night. I think that's a plus."