by Alma Bean
Feature Image by Gary A. Vasquez of USA TODAY Sports
The Utah Jazz (4-10) takes on the Portland Trail Blazers (3-11) on the second night of a road back-to-back trip.
What to Look For
On Tuesday, both teams were both officially eliminated from the In-Season Tournament. With that weight off their shoulders, they can now focus on their roster and doing what’s best for their team. Utah coming into this game on a three-game losing streak and Portland is currently on an eight-game losing streak. One of these teams will be blessed with a win, but how they will earn it is the question.
Last time these teams faced each other was last week where Utah won, 115-99. John Collins and Kelly Olynyk finished this game with double-doubles while Jordan Clarkson led all scorers with 30 points. On top of that performance, this was also the first game under Will Hardy where Utah allowed under 100 points in a game. If Utah can copy this performance, including the lack of turnovers, this game should favor Utah.
Key of the Game
Rebounding. Even with no Walker Kessler for Utah, Portland will be able to capitalize with Deandre Ayton. Even with Utah being third in the league in rebounds per game (47.2) they will meet a force in Ayton who is averaging 10.8 rebounds per game. Since Kessler has been out, Lauri Markkanen had to fill the void on the boards as he has been averaging 8.7 rebounds per game.
Injury Report
Portland – Scoot Henderson (ankle) Questionable, Justin Minaya (illness) Out, Anfernee Simons (hand) Out, Ish Wainwright (knee) Out, Robert Williams III (knee) Out
Utah – Josh Christopher (G League) Out, Taylor Hendricks (G League) Out, Johnny Juzang (G League) Out, Walker Kessler (elbow) Out, Micah Potter (G League) Out, Brice Sensabaugh (G League) Out
Where to Watch
Tip-off will be at 8:00 p.m. MST on KJZZ and Jazz+.
The Hive Sports 
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