A win against the Warriors tonight would split the season series for the Jazz. They've lost twice to the Dubs with the lone win coming at home.
In both losses, the Jazz have shot miserably, making just 38% of their shots. Deron missed the last game in Oakland but the two games that he did play, he has had big games. He had 23 points on 50% shooting in the first meeting and 30 & 10 at home in their only win. Tonight would be as good as night as any for Deron to break out of his recent funk and send the team into the break with a win.
Golden State is playing well lately. They're 6-2 over their last 8 with those two losses being to the Suns. They've beaten the Jazz, the Bucks, Bulls, Nuggets, Thunder, and Hornets. If this were the NCAA, those would be quality wins for your bubble team.
Stephen Curry and Reggie Williams, both of whom lit up the Jazz, are their hottest scorers right now. Williams is shooting 64% from the arc over his last 10 games while Curry is managing only 45%. Curry also hasn't missed a free throw in his last 14 games.
The Warriors though still are ranked in the bottom of the league in defense. Execution and patience should enable the Jazz to get what they want on offense.
I expect Deron to live up to his word tonight. Everyone else has been playing well, it's on him to get going again and lead this team on the court and into the second half and the playoffs. He's played as well as he has against any other opponent, so tonight should be the night that he goes off and end the unofficial half-way point of the season with a win.
So the last chance for Jazz basketball for a week. Maybe you won't miss it though because we haven't had Jazz basketball for the last month.
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