Jazz’s Dante Exum has torn ACL, could miss 2015-16 season

Exum, 20, was selected fifth overall by Utah in the 2014 National Basketball Association Draft.

An ACL tear is an injury of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee.

The Jazz won’t be contending for anything other than a playoff spot next season, and that goal may be harder than anticipated depending on how the New Orleans Pelicans play under Alvin Gentry and how good the Phoenix Suns wind up being.

“First and foremost, our overriding concern is with Dante and his long-term health”, Jazz general manager Dennis Lindsey said in a statement released by the team. In Exum’s case, the ACL tear occurred in his left knee.

Jazz president Randy Rigby has been supportive of Exum’s participation in global matches, despite it cost Utah its sophomore guard. “We are continuing to work closely with our medical staff, Dante and his representation in order to reach an accurate diagnosis and recommended treatment so that we can provide him with the best possible care”.

Jazz president Randy Rigby admitted that the injury could be a big blow to their campaign next season, but he insisted they have no regrets because allowing their players, particularly the young prospects, to play for their national teams will be vital to their development. The current strength of the Jazz is not built on Exum or his explosive athleticism. Gordon Hayward bounced back from a awful shooting season to build on his all-around excellence.

This injury will probably keep Exum out the entire season.

This means that, barring a trade, Trey Burke will begin training camp as the starting point guard, with Raul Neto serving as the backup. Whatever his individual peak turns out to be, the Jazz will have to wait an additional year to see it.

The true cost of Exum’s injury will be deferred, realized in the future. Burke’s misses have sunk more possessions.