by Alma Bean
Feature Image by Steve Dykes of AP Photo
The Utah Jazz (4-11) takes on the New Orleans Pelicans (9-7) in the first meeting of a two-game homestand.
What to Look For
Though things have bleak for Utah as of late, currently on a four-game losing streak, Utah has won four of their last six meeting with New Orleans over the last two seasons. Utah will be leaning on the veteran leadership of Kelly Olynyk who is 13.3/5/3.7 against New Orleans in his Utah tenure. Olynyk’s versatility a facilitator and as a scorer. New Orleans will come with their own set of challenges as they’re bringing in the powerhouse of Jonas Valanciunas and Brandon Ingram. The powerful duo is averaging a combined 37.9/14/7.4 along with Valanciunas averaging 1.5 blocks per game. With a 3-1 record against teams below .500, New Orleans should be coming into this game with confidence even with six of their nine wins being within single digits.
Key of the Game
Perimeter shooting. New Orleans has allowed the lowest percentage from the perimeter (31.7%) this season. Utah this season is shooting 35.9 percent from the perimeter and have managed to shoot at their average since Keyonte George has been in the starting lineup with him shooting 28.9 percent. If Utah can find a way to get Ochai Agbaji and Simone Fontecchio hot from the perimeter early, this game could prove to be a competitive game for the home crowd.
Injury Report
New Orleans – CJ McCollum (chest) Out, Trey Murphy III (knee) Out, Matt Ryan (calf) Out, Zion Williamson (rest) Out
Utah – Josh Christopher (G League) Out, Jordan Clarkson (illness) Out, Taylor Hendricks (G League) Out, Johnny Juzang (G League) Out, Walker Kessler (elbow) Probable, Lauri Markkanen (hamstring) Out, Micah Potter (G League) Out, Brice Sensabaugh (G League) Out
Where to Watch
Tip-off is at 7:30 p.m. MST on KJZZ and Jazz+.
The Hive Sports 
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