by Alma Bean
Feature Image: Photo by George Frey
The Utah Jazz (19-20) takes on the Sacramento Kings (19-16) as they look to end their two-game homestand with a win ending their four-game losing streak.
What to Look For
After a heartbreaking loss for Utah to ring in the new year, they will have the opportunity to redeem themselves against Sacramento. These two teams faced each other on Friday where Sacramento came out on top 126-125 after a game winning three from Kevin Huerter in the final seconds. Sacramento and Utah are both ranked in the top-five in points per game, but both are also in the bottom-five in points allowed per game. Expect to see a high scoring game given these factors.
Key of the Game
Just like their previous matchup, Utah will need to find a way to slow down Domantas Sabonis. Sabonis is the league leader in rebounds per game with 12.4, he nearly had a triple double in his previous game against Utah with a stat line 28/11/8. Sabonis also shot a perfect 12-12 from the field and 2-2 from the perimeter. This may put on emphasis on defense in the paint testing Walker Kessler on if he will be able to be aggressive in the paint without getting into foul trouble. Utah will also look to contain December’s Western Conference Rookie of the Month Keegan Murray, which in their last meeting was limited to 3-5 shooting for seven points.
Injury Report
Sacramento- Kevin Huerter: Questionable (back), Malik Monk: Questionable (shoulder)
Utah- Johnny Juzang: Out (G League), Micah Potter: Out (G League), Collin Sexton: Out (hamstring)
Where to Watch?
Tip-off between Sacramento and Utah will be at 7:00 p.m. MT on AT&T SportsNet.