Ante Tomic?
He has already signed on to play for Real Madrid through the 2012-13 season. A team of that level doesn't give that kind of commitment to a (22 when he signed the deal or) 23-year old unless he is a talent. He certainly wouldn't be playing as much as Tomic did at his age if he didn't have NBA potential. When that contract is up, he'll be 26 and probably ready for the NBA.
About buying him out of his contract after this coming season. The problem is that Tomic seems happy to stay in Europe. In the interviews I've seen with him, I've never once heard him say anything about being drafted by the Jazz. It's like he's in his own world. He is a very good player who will continue to improve. Whether he ever wears a Jazz jersey is up for debate however. I sense the Jazz front office is beginning to get a little frustrated with the situation, and might trade his rights if he doesn't want to come over after next year. I'm fine with that, if it can bring us a player we can actually suit up and not have to wait on. So many Euro guys now have nice contracts at home, and the desire to play in the NBA just isn't as strong as it used to be.
I want to know your opinions on Ante Tomic. In 2008 a lot of people had Tomic going in the 20's in their mock drafts, but he fell and the Jazz picked him up with the 44th pick. I have heard some comparisons to Pau Gasol. He is 7'1 225 lbs, he needs to get stronger. When he comes over to the Jazz in a couple of years or so he will be well seasoned. Do you think he could be a productive player in the NBA for the Jazz? He would give them size which they need and could really use.