When the Utah Jazz made [their decision to draft Ace Bailey](https://thejnotes.com/only-untouchable-player-jazz-roster-just-became-crystal-clear) with the fifth-overall pick, we all knew it wasn't a choice that was going to come without some significant risks. However, considering his massive upside, it was absolutely the right move to make.
Everyone heard the rumors swirling about Bailey potentially not wanting to play in Utah. There were plenty of talks about the Jazz avoiding him out of a fear that he would refuse to report to play for the team. But as it turns out, those concerns were overblown to begin with.
It's since [been clarified by Bailey's representatives](https://www.nbcsports.com/nba/news/what-drama-ace-baileys-representative-says-he-is-thrilled-to-play-for-jazz-he-has-yet-to-report-to-utah) that he is "thrilled" to play for the Jazz. Of course, that's fantastic news for a franchise that's hungry for some star power, because that's exactly what the Rutgers prospect may turn out to be.
Standing 6-foot-9 with top-tier athleticism and the foundation to become an elite scorer in this league, Bailey has the kind of potential to grow into a player capable of being a true two-way star.
Bailey was objectively the right choice
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Obviously, one of the biggest criticisms of Ace Bailey's game has been the lack of polish. He's clearly still a bit raw, especially when it comes to scoring off the dribble and making playmaking reads. But the scoring power is clearly there. He averaged 20.7 points per game in his freshman season at Rutgers, shooting north of 40% from three and showing off all kinds of impressive physical tools.
Bailey can clearly develop into the kind of do-it all offensive engine that changes a franchise. On the defensive side of things, it's Bailey's length and lateral quickness that makes him a force. He's able to disrupt passing lanes and be a legitimate difference-maker on that end of the floor. He's flashed potential of being able to guard multiple positions at the next level.
We know that Bailey's flaws are real, but no prospect is perfect. It's also worth considering that he's just 19 years old, and clearly going to improve a lot between now and a few years from now. And in the end, teams don't win championships or end up with franchise-changing players by playing it safe.
That's why Utah Jazz fans should be glad Danny Ainge took a swing here. This team already has a rotation made up of some solid role players, and they're lacking a true franchise cornerstone. If he reaches his potential, that's precisely what Ace Bailey could be.