Jazz, Millsap continue to evolve

 For years, everything limited and confined Paul Millsap.

But none of it has ultimately defined him.

After four seasons with the Jazz, the 6-foot-8, 250-pound power forward many thought would never hit the hardwood as a legitimate NBA starter has finally become one.

“I’m very excited,” said Millsap, following an intrasquad scrimmage Saturday at Energy Solutions Arena. “I know I worked hard to get where I’m at, to earn this spot. There’s nothing better than to work your way into the starting lineup.”
 Granted, Millsap’s ascension followed the departure of Carlos Boozer. But Utah has long planned to make the 25-year-old former Louisiana Tech standout a major piece of its puzzle. And as the small-market, salary-cap conscious Jazz build for the future, Millsap has in many ways become as essential to the team’s long-term prospects as Deron Williams and Al Jefferson.
 In the trio — none older than 26, all staring at the upside of their careers — Utah has a core with the potential to rival any other big-name three-piece unit in the league.

In Millsap, the Jazz have a perfect third member. A star who is willing to defer. A prized athlete who believes that down-and-dirty, old-school fundamentals such as rebounding and defense are as important as points or prestige, and often more rewarding.

“That’s what I strive for, actually [base] my life off of,” Millsap said, “working hard to try and make a positive influence on everybody I come in contact with. That’s who I’ve been. That’s who my family has been. And I want to continue to try and do that.”