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Kirilenko praises Utahns, LDS to media in Russia

Wow!! Linx hired a savy PR guru. What a way to get back in to LDS fans hearts by appealing to their religon. I hope he converts, but after he's traded for expiring contracts. Good Luck Linx

Do NOT give up on Kirilenko as a Jazzman. Many solid players have had a streak in which their numbers dipped... and/or misunderstandings with coaches, and maybe less minutes. Those of you who want the Jazz to trade him... be careful what you wish for. Afterwards, I bet his minutes and numbers would increase and it wouldn't surprise me if he became an all-star again 2 or 3 years later. AND, as far as replacing him, just who do you plan to bring in... choosing from free-agents (many of whom are overpriced) or players who don't want to play in SLC for whatever reason? Consider AK's WHOLE career so far with the Jazz, and that his best years are likely ahead. And BTW, he made plenty of key plays in the Jazz's playoff run this past season... were his critics really watching?

Barton I can't say that I didn't think the same thing. but I think it would take more than appealing to the mormon population to get back into the good graces of the fans. he seems like a pretty decent guy. I just wish he could relight the fire with which he jused to play.

atta-boy barton, make a negative out of a positive. you will go far in life

You can't tell a Mormon from a normal person eh? Not even from the "peaches and cream" complextion? Hey, Kir, try Diet Pepsi instead of tea--practically the same thing. Barton, PR guru or not, did he say anything wrong? If it was staged, it was money well spent. "I like this guy."

[sarcasm]Of course... who could possibly have anything good to say about LDS people... unless it was a PR stunt![/sarcasm]

Man! I love Kirilenko! It totally changes my perspective on his ideas and such. Its been a long time since anyone praised Utah. In Fact it has been critisized more than praised. Thank You Kirilenko!

Linx hired a saavy PR or guy or maybe.... Kirileko is kind and gracious. Sounds to me like he gave a great interview.

Kirilenko is the worst center the jazz have ever had... bring back Ostertag!

What does 'his diminished role' role mean? Is what he does less significant? It seems his role has changed and continues to be defined since players like Boozer, Williams, and Okur were signed, but has his significance to the team really diminished? By the way, I agree, Utah is an outstanding place.

Hey big time b-ball...you're right kirelenko is a bad center, that's why he plays small forward.

What, Ostertag? You want to see Sloan go NUTS? AK can play AK keep up the good work and play hard with JAZZ!

Hey Big Time B-Ball, You know Kirilenko doesnt play center right? Oh yeah, youre big time.....
Kirilenko will be back this year.

I have long loved Andre Kirilenko. These published comments of his are just the most recent reminder as to why. He is a decent man with a good heart. I am so glad that he is still with the Jazz. I hope the coaching staff can formulate an approach to make use of his considerable skills, and to clearly define that role and expectations to him. Likewise, I hope that Andre will embrace that role and joyfully play within it.

Thanks to and praises for Kirilenko!!! He's a family man and devoted to them and Utah's way of life.

A.K. plays the way he did in that golden state series and utah could be in business in the western conference. utah fan's let's chalk it up as one bad year and look for great things from a.k. this year.

I like Kirilenko. I am glad I do not live in Utah. There are better places for an LDS member to live. It is sad to see at some games when the fans hurl some of the most unsportsman-like comments I have ever heard at Kirilenko. I wish him and the Jazz to have a great year.

When your in the playoffs and a player puts his personal ego and feelings above winning and the team it gets us fans a little riled up.But lets face it, Linx is an emotional guy.Maybe coach could put winning and the team ahead of personal ego as well, and find away to utilize Linx's unusual basketball and physical skills.Come on you two guys lets get primed and focus on a championship!!!!Yeah!!!!!

I've always been impressed by Kirlenko since I saw him at the Rocky Mountain Revue. As a mormon, I'm appreciative of his positive comments regarding the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and applaud him for his devotion to family and service to his community. There so much bashing of other people's faith, not just of mormons. Andre is a special playe- a special person. As Jazz fan, I can only hope that Andre can regain the confidence and tenacity he once demonstrated just a few years ago. Go Jazz!

By the way Ron, your right,Doctor Barton will go far in life.In fact he already has. Hi Kev!