Responding to rafts of continued criticism over the decision to keep a perpetually injured Dante Exum on board, Jazz management released a statement assuring that the once-highly touted 5th pick will eventually pan out as a reliable, contributing player and an asset to the team by the year 2027. “We understand the frustration of Jazz fans over Exum’s never-ending injury status,” said Utah Jazz General Manager Justin Zanik. “Rest assured, in seven years Jazz fans can expect a healthy Exum to dazzle on the court.” The Utah Jazz, who last year gave Exum a three-year $33,000,000 contract, emphasized patience is key. “As an organization, we have always taken the long-view approach,” said Zanik. “It takes time to build a championship team.” At press time, a perfectly healthy Derrick Favors was witnessed in New Orleans laying up buckets with ease.