Brewer played a total of 41 minutes during the Jazz's 17-game run to last year's Western Conference final, watching as Utah coach Jerry Sloan used a three-guard rotation of Deron Williams, Derek Fisher and Gordan Giricek.

This time, things will be different.

Fisher is gone, Giricek has been traded and Brewer is the Jazz's starter at shooting guard - someone who must play well if Utah expects to enjoy another deep playoff run.

"Only time will tell," Sloan said, "but I think he'll be just fine. He seems to be gaining confidence and he's playing hard. That's the biggest thing - playing hard. If you play hard, you might make some mistakes, but you can overcome them because you're busting your butt."

Brewer seems to sense the opportunity that awaits.

"I'm definitely excited about the role I'll be playing, after watching last year," he said. "Every game was intense. Every possession was intense. The fans were into it, especially at home. They helped get us over the hump. . . . So I'm excited to have more of an opportunity than last year. Hopefully, I can help."

Victories aside, Brewer's most vivid memory of the last year's playoff run was Fisher's third-quarter return against Golden State in Game 2 of the conference semifinals. After spending time in New York with his seriously ill daughter, Fisher flew to Utah in time to play a key role in an overtime win over the Warriors.

"I remember," Brewer laughed, "because I was actually playing before Fish got back. But it was a great game for this team and this organization and I was just glad to be part of it."

This season, Sloan has mostly used a four-man backcourt rotation, with Ronnie Price backing up Williams at point guard and Kyle Korver splitting time with Brewer.

Fisher? He plays for the Lakers after being released from his contract last summer so his family could live closer to recommended treatment centers for his daughter.

"I felt, once Fish left, I would have an opportunity for some playing time," Brewer said. "I didn't know if I'd start or come off the bench or what the situation would be, but I thought the opportunity was out there."

Brewer has started 76 games. He averages 12.1 points and 2.9 rebounds and deserves some support as the NBA's Most Improved Player.

luhm@sltrib.com