The Best Perimeter Defender on the Jazz Roster: Elijah Harkless
The Utah Jazz have a player who strikes fear into the hearts of ball handlers and consistently receives praise from the coaching staff for his tenacity. That player is two-way guard Elijah Harkless. Harkless' defensive prowess was on full display during a recent comeback against the Portland Trail Blazers, where his contributions were instrumental in the Jazz's victory.
Keyonte George, a teammate of Harkless, acknowledges his teammate's impact, stating that when Harkless is in front of them, they 'just get off it.' Jazz coach Will Hardy also highlights Harkless' relentless defense, noting that he draws at least one moving screen every time he's on the floor. Hardy's admiration for Harkless is not isolated; assistant coach Scott Morrison praised Harkless as the best player during Salt Lake City Summer League practices, which included rookie Ace Bailey and eventual Summer League MVP Kyle Filipowski.
Harkless' confidence in his defensive abilities is evident when asked if he considers himself the best defender on the Jazz roster. He replied, 'Yes, ma'am, I'm the best defender on the team, and I'm auditioning for the best defender in the league.'
Despite being on a two-way contract, Harkless' impact is undeniable. His ability to push other players, improve those around him, and create a horrifying matchup for ball handlers has earned him recognition. Harkless' story is reminiscent of Luguentz Dort, an undrafted player who became the fourth-ranked Defensive Player of the Year in 2025 and played a crucial role in Oklahoma City's NBA title.
As the Jazz continue their journey, Harkless' potential to become a prominent figure in the NBA is evident. His hard work, infectious energy, and defensive skills make him a player to watch, and his impact on the team is already making a difference.
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Up Next:
- Oct. 22: Utah Jazz vs. Los Angeles Clippers
- Oct. 24: Utah Jazz @ Sacramento Kings
