Utah Jazz Coach Defends Hendricks’ G League Stint for Injury Recovery
Through the opening stretch of the Utah Jazz’s regular season, the playing time for third-year forward Taylor Hendricks has fluctuated significantly. Some nights, he finds himself in the starting lineup, while on others, he clocks in just 20 minutes off the bench. There have even been instances when he has been a healthy scratch or sent down to the G League. After enduring a season-ending leg injury last year, expectations for Hendricks this season were tempered. Instead of anticipating a breakout campaign, the focus has shifted to ensuring he returns to form and adjusts to the pace of the NBA game after a year away from it.
The Importance of G League Experience
For Jazz head coach Will Hardy, Hendricks’ G League minutes with the Salt Lake City Stars are crucial. They serve as an essential tool for him to regain the game speed that is difficult to replicate in practice. “Right now, the G League minutes are so important for Taylor because he needs as many repetitions as he can get at the reactive part of the sport that you just can’t replicate when you miss a year,” Hardy explained during his pregame press conference ahead of the matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Hardy emphasized the unpredictable nature of basketball, noting that “this game is all reaction.” He acknowledged the challenges Hendricks faces, stating that neither he nor the player can predict the specific movements that will occur during a game. “Getting your body used to making those decisions and reacting and fully trusting your body in those moments,” Hardy continued, “is where we’re trying to get to with Taylor.”
In-Game Experience as a Key Component of Development
The Jazz coach also highlighted the immense value of in-game experience that comes with playing in the G League. For Hendricks, these minutes are not just about making up for lost time; they’re about rebuilding confidence and muscle memory that can only be developed in live-game situations. Hardy’s approach reflects a broader understanding of the importance of gradual reintegration into the league, focusing on long-term development rather than immediate results.
As Hendricks continues to navigate this season, the Jazz organization remains committed to his growth, recognizing that the journey to becoming a two-way star is often paved with patience and careful planning.
