He is an above-average starting C that happens to be the best back-up in the NBA because he plays behind Rudy. He can also play PF at an average level, if not above-average. 17 million may seem like a lot, but he averaged 18 points and 11 rebounds per 36 minutes last year. Every team in the NBA would pay 17 million for that kind of production combined with elite defense.

Favors is not the player that the Jazz need to upgrade. His 12-16 minutes per night at PF and and 12-16 minutes per night at C are strong for the most part. What the Jazz need is strong production, and especially shooting for the other 32-36 minutes per game at PF. Can Niang provide that? Maybe--he shot 41% from 3 though his minutes and usage could go way up if the Jazz don't bring someone else in.