Jazz Coach Praises Veteran Svi Mykhailiuk's Professionalism

Will Hardy calls Mykhailiuk the "ultimate pro" despite reduced role this season.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 8:03pm

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Despite being phased out of the Utah Jazz's rotation in recent weeks, veteran guard Svi Mykhailiuk has maintained a positive attitude and earned praise from head coach Will Hardy for his professionalism. Mykhailiuk has put up solid numbers when on the floor this season, but the Jazz have been prioritizing the development of their younger players. Hardy highlighted Mykhailiuk's class, preparation, and team-first mentality, even as his playing time has diminished.

Why it matters

Mykhailiuk's ability to handle a reduced role with maturity could make him a valuable veteran presence for the Jazz going forward, especially given his affordable contract. His team-first attitude and consistent production when called upon set a good example for younger players on the roster.

The details

Mykhailiuk has started 45 games for the Jazz this season, averaging 9.0 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 47.8% from the field and 39.7% from three-point range. However, he has seen his playing time decrease in recent weeks as the team focuses on developing its younger talent. Despite this, Mykhailiuk has maintained a positive attitude and continued to prepare himself professionally.

  • Mykhailiuk has been a DNP (did not play) in four of his last five possible appearances.
  • In the one game he did play against the Portland Trail Blazers, Mykhailiuk had 14 points on 62.5% shooting, including four made three-pointers, along with three assists.

The players

Will Hardy

The head coach of the Utah Jazz.

Svi Mykhailiuk

A veteran guard for the Utah Jazz who has been praised by coach Will Hardy for his professionalism despite a reduced role on the team.

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What they’re saying

“He's been the ultimate pro his entire time with us. There are times that he's in the rotation. There are times he's been a starter. There are times he's been out of the rotation. And he always handles himself with a ton of class. He's always prepared. He's a great teammate. We're lucky to have Svi in our organization.”

— Will Hardy, Head Coach, Utah Jazz (si.com)

What’s next

Mykhailiuk's affordable contract and team-friendly deal could make him a valuable veteran presence for the Jazz going forward, even as the team continues to prioritize the development of its younger players.

The takeaway

Svi Mykhailiuk's professionalism and team-first attitude, even as his playing time has diminished, have earned him the respect of his coach and could secure his place on the Jazz's roster in the years to come.