In retrospect: A defense of Raja Bell.

With the recent #FreeRaja jokes, I thought I’d write this up.

At the end of last season Raja Bell became arguably the biggest Jazz villain since ‘The Worm’, Dennis Rodman gave Malone repeated prostate checks.

On closer examination of his situation and keeping in mind what has happened since, I believe I see his point.

First Bell is on his last legs as an NBA player. He knows it. At this point in his career, if he doesn’t like how he’s being handled/treated, he doesn’t have a whole lot to lose. So he is in the unique position of being able to be completely honest.

So Bell’s contention was primarily with Coach Corbin. He did not like the way that Corbin communicated, he did not like the way Corbin handled minute distribution, and he felt that Corbin made it personal with Bell. If we agree with Bell or not on if and how he should have been used is irrelevant in light of 2 things: 1) CJ Miles similar if less harsh concerns about Corbin and 2) KOC’s mocking of Bell and his situation

“…Informed of Bell’s comments, Jazz General Manager Kevin O’Connor sarcastically fired back.

"Gee, that’s unexpected," O’Connor said. "I would’ve never thought that would’ve happened. …”

Point 1) other players feel the same as Bell; they simply have too much to lose to say anything. This tells me Corbin is NOT well respected by many of his players.

Point 2) KOC clearly demonstrates that he’s not even willing to hear the other side out. Players learned not to trust the Jazz organization.

No matter how you feel about Raja Bell; what he was saying last year is what the fans are saying this year: Corbin doesn’t have a clue and the FO doesn’t care.