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When the Utah Jazz traded for Derrick Favors after he was selected third overall by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2010 NBA Draft, they knew they’d have a project on their hands.

It wasn’t that Favors lacked talent, it was just clear he wasn’t ready for a staring role at the NBA level. Now 23-years-old, the hope is that Derrick Favors will finally take that needed step to separate himself from rotation player to All-Star caliber player.

Will he be able to do so? Such remains to be seen, though the Utah Jazz are hoping Favors is ready to make the leap.

“This is really the second stage for Derrick,” Jazz general manager Dennis Lindsey said. “We’ve had patience with him and he’s had a natural progression. With Derrick, nobody can accuse the Jazz of skipping steps. We know that we’re making a significant investment in him by giving him the contract extension. Derrick has taken ownership of his development.”

The Jazz have been cautious not to put too much pressure on Derrick Favors though it seems as if they know it’s getting to the point where they have to push him a little more.

A 6’10 power forward/center combo, Derrick Favors broke the 30 minute barrier for the first time last season and put up a very respectable 13 points and nearly 9 rebounds per game average. Those are numbers the Jazz will hope to see an improvement on in addition to his defense would could also use some work.

Still, put the entire package together and the Utah Jazz may have a star ready to burst out.