NBA Rumors: Mike Conley Set For Jazz Return, Days Numbered?

Mike Conley has missed 19 of the regular NBA games this 2019-20 season after suffering a hamstring injury. However, it appears the 32-year-old guard is up and about and will be returning to help the Utah Jazz in their playoff push.

In a report from Aaron Falk of Utahjazz.com, Conley told reporters that he is ready to go. Despite missing from the lineup, the Jazz have managed to make a good run with a 29-13 win-loss record as of this writing. Before he got injured, Utah was 12-9 with Conley around, Yardbarker.com pointed out. This is despite him having so-so numbers.

This season, the 4th overall pick of the 2007 NBA Draft has had lower numbers than his usual career averages. In 22 games, he has managed only 13.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists. Though these numbers are fairly close, it remains that Conley needs to make a good impression this season. The 6-foot-1 guard is in the fourth year of a five-year $153 million contract that he originally got with the Memphis Grizzlies. His final year will have a player option and most feel that the Arkansas native will opt-in for obvious reasons.

For Conley, it is still not too late to jack up his numbers. There are still 40 games left in the regular season and Conley can still improve. However, some are concerned about his well-being. There is no telling how healthy he is right now. Also, he is likely to be used sparingly until head coach Quin Snyder sees him fit to see more action on the floor.

There is also his age that could factor in next season. Even if he opts in, Conley will not be excluded from NBA trade talks. Donovan Mitchell and Joe Ingles are manning the backcourt and most know the acquisition of Jordan Clarkson. With these names around, Conley could eventually be dispensable. He could be offered to other teams or bought out if the Jazz feel they need room for other talents.

Whatever happens, it looks like Conley will just march on like a good soldier and try to contribute in whatever way he can. Being in the NBA for quite some time, mentoring the young players of Utah could be the best contributions he can give right now. If he is up to it, orchestrating or making big plays would be certainly welcome to boost their postseason hopes.