by Alma Bean
Feature Image: Photo by Trent Nelson of the Salt Lake Tribune.
The Utah Jazz (24-24) takes on the visiting Brooklyn Nets (27-17) in Royce O’Neale‘s first time back in Utah since being traded this past offseason.
What to Look For
Brooklyn will be methodical with the shot selections. Brooklyn is currently shooting 50.7 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from the perimeter, which is both second in the league. They are also first in the league in blocks with seven blocks per game. Though these stats may look intimidating, it has not ended up with the best results. Brooklyn is currently on a four-game losing streak, losing by an average of 8.5 points per game. On the other hand, Utah is looking to continue its win streak to three games after an impressive blowout win against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday.
Key for the Game
Blocks, blocks, and blocks. Walker Kessler will face off against Nic Claxton, who is the top shot blocker in the league averaging 2.7 blocks per game. Kessler is currently fourth in the league in blocks per game with two blocks. Both players have shown glimpses of being defensive powerhouses in their young careers, with Claxton in his fourth season and Kessler excelling in his rookie season.
Injury Report
Brooklyn- Kevin Durant: Out (knee)
Utah- Johnny Juzang: Out (G League), Kelly Olynyk: Out (ankle), Micah Potter (G League)
Where to Watch?
Tip-off between Brooklyn and Utah will be at 7:00 p.m. MT on AT&T SportsNet.