4 Key observations from Ace Bailey’s performance against the Rockets

After an exciting performance in the Summer League, many were looking forward to seeing what Ace Bailey would do in his preseason debut. When the Utah Jazz took on the Houston Rockets, the prized rookie did not disappoint.

In 31 minutes of action, he scored 25 points, six rebounds and three assists while shooting 11-for-16 while hitting two 3-pointers. Many say you shouldn’t look at the box score to truly judge a player’s performance. Well, that wasn’t the case this time, the way he looked even more more exciting than the box score would have you believe.

There was plenty to take away from Bailey’s performance against the Rockets.

1. His self-confidence is sky high

Many knew this coming in, but man, Bailey doesn’t hesitate when he gets the chance to shoot. Honestly, not only is this a good thing, but it’s a new change of pace to see a Jazz rookie have so much confidence from the get-go when they saw something different from Cody Williams last year.

His iso skills were on full display against the Rockets, and it was a wonder to see a Jazz wing make the moves he could.

2. There will definitely be growing pains

Don’t worry. This is the only problem with its performance, and it mainly has to do with the growth process. Because of his confidence, Bailey starts taking some ill-advised shots. He definitely took a few and just missed a few.

Nights like tonight against the Rockets don’t do much to highlight the warts of his game, but fans should rightly expect that there will be some games where the shot won’t fall, as is the case with most rookies. That wasn’t visible tonight, but it probably is.

3. He wasn’t a ball stopper (far from it)

Although Bailey had already proven his scoring prowess, many believed he was a black hole on offense. Against the Rockets, he showed that he is absolutely capable of making the right plays when they arise.

Imagine what that will be like if Lauri Markkanen or Walker Kessler roll to the basket. Regardless, Bailey showed that he can definitely make the right pass. As he establishes himself as a dominant scorer, as he did against Houston, opponents will challenge him to beat them with his playmaking. Showing from the start that he can do just that is an excellent sign.

4. The Jazz will run through him a lot

Bailey is an extremely talented prospect. That’s why the Jazz rolled the dice and selected him at the draft. In fact, they’ll definitely want to see the full extent of his abilities by feeding him the stone again and again.

With great trust comes great responsibility, as the famous quote somewhat goes. Because Bailey believes he is a star, and he played like one, Utah will run countless plays through him. With someone like him, that’s probably the best way to develop someone like him.

In a season without any expectations, Utah should expect to throw Bailey to the wolves and let him rule the roost by the end of the calendar year!