"Twelve games into a new season, Jazz coach Jerry Sloan is pleased with veteran forward Andrei Kirilenko's production in a starter's role.

Kirilenko has started all 12 of Utah's contests, and is averaging 12.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists. In addition, he is shooting 43.9 percent from the field, 50 percent behind the 3-point line and 80.4 percent at the free-throw line.

"He gives us another guy that can make a play," said Sloan, prior to the Jazz's 98-88 home win over the New Jersey Nets on Wednesday night. "That's the bottom line."

Statistics aside, Sloan has been impressed by Kirilenko's focus, energy and execution. The 10th-year player has taken a lead role in Utah's offense, allowing newly acquired center Al Jefferson to find his way, and even providing forward Paul Millsap with a buffer zone.

Kirilenko has passed well, played aggressive defense and stayed within the Jazz's offense. Factor in that he recorded double digits in scoring in 10 of Utah's first 12 games - including seven consecutive contests - and Sloan's decision to start Kirilenko at small forward while having C.J. Miles come off the bench has initially been a winning one.

"Are you going to get a 30-point game every night? Probably not," Sloan said. "But you get some other things that makes the game a little bit easier to play."

As for Kirilenko, the lifetime Jazzman has also been comfortable in his early-season role. And he credited continual one-on-one sessions with Utah shooting consultant and ex-Jazz sharpshooter Jeff Hornacek with improving his touch from the perimeter."