Despite Overall Struggles, Jazz Rookie Class Showing Promise

Throughout the NBA 2024-25 season, the Jazz have increasingly relied on their young talent as part of their ongoing rebuilding process, offering significant opportunities to the team’s rookie class.

The Jazz’s three rookie additions — Cody Williams, Isaiah Collier, and Kyle Filipowski — have each experienced a mix of highs and lows this season. However, for the most part, all three have shown enough potential to instill confidence in their future roles within the organization. Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes offered a similarly optimistic assessment of the Jazz’s rookies.

When grading each NBA team’s rookie class for the season, Hughes awarded Utah a B, praising their young talent thus far and particularly highlighting Collier’s development.

“The Utah Jazz probably didn’t expect Collier to lead their rookie class in minutes by such a large margin, but the No. 29 pick’s aggressive drives and 90th-percentile ranking in assist-to-usage rate among point guards have earned him a prominent role,” Hughes relayed. “He racked up 14 assists in a one-point win over the Timberwolves on Feb. 28. While Collier’s perimeter shooting remains a weakness, he’s been a key offensive engine, even earning minutes ahead of second-year guard Keyonte George.”

Among the three rookies, Collier has been the most significant standout. Recently named Western Conference Rookie of the Month following a strong second-half surge, Collier now averages 7.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists through 55 games.

However, Collier isn’t the only rookie making an impact. Kyle Filipowski has also emerged as a positive force for the Jazz, displaying a versatile offensive game. Lottery pick Cody Williams has shown steady improvement as the season has progressed, despite a slow start.

“Kyle Filipowski is showing signs of a three-point shot that could be effective in a frontcourt role. He has posted several double-digit rebound games and even surpassed the 20-point mark on multiple occasions since the All-Star break,” Hughes added. “Better yet, Cody Williams has become more noticeable after a quiet start, playing significant minutes with more consistency. Overall, this represents a high point for Utah’s rookies. All three have had their moments after difficult beginnings.”

As with most rookies, the first year of an NBA career can be filled with challenges, and the Jazz’s newcomers have faced their share. Collier has struggled with his shooting, Filipowski still needs to develop into a reliable two-way player, and Williams, though promising, remains a work in progress. However, all three have flashed potential throughout the season, offering hope for their futures.

This season has been one of growth and learning, laying the foundation for a productive summer of development and setting the stage for a strong second season in 2025-26.