by Alma Bean
Feature Image by Mark Schiefelbein of AP Photo
The Utah Jazz (23-23) takes on the struggling Charlotte Hornets (10-33) as they reach the halfway mark of their six-game road trip.
What to Look For
Coming into this game, Utah was able to get back on the right track after a prominent win over the Washington Wizards on Thursday night. With their matchup in Charlotte, skill-wise this game should be of the same caliber. Charlotte is struggling to find an identity after injuries and the recent trade of Terry Rozier. Utah should be able to capitalize on the unstable chemistry that may lie in Charlotte.
Along with the shakeup of the roster, Charlotte has currently lost eight of their last 10 games. Utah on the other hand has won seven of their last 10 games but their three losses have come over the last four games. The biggest matchup of the night will be between Gordon Hayward and Lauri Markkanen. A battle of Utah All-Star of the past and Utah All-Star of the present.
Key of the Game
Rebounding differential. Charlotte has one of the worst rebounding differentials in the league at -3.8 per game with just the Dallas Mavericks (-4.4) and the Wizards (-9.7) having worse differentials. Even though Charlotte may have one of the worst differentials in the league doesn’t mean that they don’t have guys that can command the paint. With the center duo of Nick Richards and Mark Williams, Charlotte can still hold their ground in the paint. This young duo will give John Collins and Walker Kessler a rough time throughout the full 48 minutes.
Injury Report
Charlotte – LaMelo Ball (ankle) Out
Utah – Taylor Hendricks (G League) Out, Johnny Juzang (G League) Out, Micah Potter (G League) Out, Jason Preston (G League) Out, Brice Sensabaugh (G League) Out
Where to Watch
Tip-off will be at 5:00 p.m. MST on KJZZ and Jazz+.
The Hive Sports 
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