April 18, 2018
by Jon Krawczynski
The early portion of offseason training for JBA teams is optional, but most players start early and expect their teammates to do the same. Those who choose not to get rolling in the winter risk being accused of selfishness, as Jazz point guard Tim Hall could tell you.
Hall, who is entering his fifth JBA season, did not report to voluntary workouts on Monday. Undisclosed sources within the Jazz organization have made it clear that they are not cool with that.
“It definitely puts that little check mark in the back of my mind and lets us know who we can count on, who we can’t count on,” per the source. “To see your team show up is definitely great.”
It’s unclear why Hall didn’t show up, but he obviously didn’t provide an excuse. The Jazz coaching staff has noted that Hall is free to train however he sees fit, noting that he has heard positive things about the former JBA finalist’s offseason routine.
“It’s his choice. Maybe I used to get disappointed. I have no control over it. It’s his option. It’s his choice,” the head coach said. “It’s whatever he feels is best for him. I do know this – we’ve had coaches downtown for his workouts. I’ve seen some video of Tim in the weight room. He’s absolutely working out, so I know he’s in great playing shape right now. I have no concerns about it, and won’t.”
Hall, who put up nearly 8 points and 2 assists a game for a final four Wizards team last season, will enter 2018 as one of the top scoring options on his Jazz squad. It’s unfair to criticize any player for not showing up to something that is voluntary. But voluntary hardly means voluntary in the eyes of some players and coaches.