Overview
- On Friday Smith told KSL that he has full confidence in head coach Will Hardy and president of basketball operations Austin Ainge and that the organization will not make immediate leadership changes.
- Smith said the team's poor start stems from injuries, erratic shooting, and the normal inconsistency of a very young rotation rather than failures by the coaching staff or front office.
- He highlighted measurable player development—added strength for Ace Bailey, defensive growth from rookie Darryn Peterson, and progress from Keyonte George—as evidence the rebuild is producing signs of progress.
- Smith acknowledged and validated fan frustration as warranted and said the club is 'not panicking' while planning to address on‑court issues through coaching, health and practice work.
- The owner pointed to offseason moves such as adding Jaren Jackson Jr., retaining Keyonte George and maintaining draft capital and salary flexibility as the foundation for a two‑to‑four year plan aimed at returning the Jazz to title contention.