The Utah Jazz have an important decision to make involving Ace Bailey, but it is not whether he should start on opening night. That conversation has gained momentum after Bailey averaged 9.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.8 steals during the preseason. His energy and defensive versatility understandably make him an attractive option for Will Hardy’s starting lineup.
However, starting has become an overrated measurement of a young player’s importance. Bailey could hear his name announced before the game, play the first six minutes and still spend the most important possessions watching from the bench. The more meaningful question is whether Hardy trusts him to finish close games.
Utah already has several players who need the ball. Keyonte George and Darryn Peterson will initiate offense, Lauri Markkanen must remain a featured scorer and Jaren Jackson Jr. will command touches in different areas. Adding Bailey to that group could force him into a limited offensive role before he establishes an early rhythm.
Allowing Bailey to begin with the second unit could create more freedom. He could attack in transition, defend the opponent’s best reserve wing and receive opportunities that may not exist alongside four established starters. Coming off the bench would not make him less important if Hardy gives him meaningful responsibility.
The Jazz can still use Jaxson Hayes or another traditional center to absorb early physical minutes. That arrangement would allow Jackson to avoid immediately battling opposing centers on every possession. More importantly, it would give Hardy time to study the game before deciding whether size or versatility provides the better closing answer.
Bailey should become Utah’s swing piece. If the Jazz need more rebounding and interior defense, Hardy can finish with a center next to Jackson. If they need speed, switching and another player capable of attacking space, Bailey should receive those final minutes.
That flexibility would be more valuable than declaring one permanent starting lineup before the season begins. Young players are often told they must earn opportunities, but closing a competitive NBA game represents a much stronger sign of trust than starting one.
Bailey does not need a ceremonial promotion. He needs possessions that place him inside the outcome. Utah should challenge him to become the player Hardy cannot remove when the fourth quarter becomes tight.
If Bailey earns that responsibility, nobody will care whether he was introduced first. The Jazz will have discovered something much more important: a young forward they trust when the game is actually decided.