Raja Bell Enters, Wesley Matthews Exits Utah Jazz's Revolving Door
ESPN's Marc Stein is reporting that free agent Raja Bell will sign a three year, $10 million deal with the Utah Jazz, effectively ending the speculation about his future.
Choosing instead to reunite with the Jazz and coach Jerry Sloan, Bell spurned advances by the Chicago Bulls and the LA Lakers—even cancelling a personal meeting with Kobe Bryant.
As a result of Bell's signing, The Salt Lake Tribune 's Ross Siler reported that Utah has informed restricted free agent Wesley Matthews that they will not match the five year, $34 million offer sheet which was presented by the Portland Trailblazers.
Additionally, Bell's arrival helps to soften the blow of Kyle Korver's departure to Chicago.
Consequently, the Jazz are able to fill a glaring roster hole with a seasoned veteran, all while saving a significant amount of money.
This is promising news for Jazz fans. Following the trade for Al Jefferson, Bell's signing illustrates that the franchise is fully committed to winning right now.
Furthermore, the move serves to appease All-Star point guard Deron Williams' desire for the team to make competitive offseason moves. Hence, the Jazz brass hope Bell's signing will help to convince Williams to remain with the team come 2012, when he is slated to become a free agent.
Therefore, due to Utah's recent transactions, coupled with the development of their young talent (most notably first round pick Gordon Hayward), the Jazz should look to improve upon their 53-39 record in 2009-10.
