SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Jazz forward Blake Hinson reportedly strengthened his case for a roster spot Sunday by informing the organization that his skill set extends well beyond basketball and now includes coffee retrieval, conversation and basic canine supervision.
Asked how he could help Utah this season, Hinson explained that he was willing to contribute however necessary, whether that meant making shots, talking to teammates, getting coffee or watching somebody’s dog.
Jazz officials immediately updated his scouting report.
“Shoots it well, competes, understands spacing, possibly available for Labradoodles,” one evaluator wrote.
Hinson is fighting to establish a permanent NBA role after joining Utah last season, and his strong preseason performance against Denver gave coaches another look at the shooting that has helped him stick around the league.
Still, Hinson apparently understands that end-of-roster competition requires versatility.
Sources say he has already begun preparing for several possible assignments, including corner threes, emergency small-ball minutes, Starbucks runs and checking whether assistant coaches’ dogs have been fed.
The Jazz stressed that Hinson will primarily be evaluated as a basketball player.
That reportedly came as a relief to Hinson, who admitted he has limited experience with larger breeds.
Team officials nevertheless praised his willingness to do whatever is required to remain part of the program.
Utah has not yet guaranteed Hinson a permanent role.
But according to sources, he has already moved ahead of several competitors in the highly important category of “would probably water your plants while you’re away.”
