It’s time for the big game everybody! Break out your seven-layer dip and your world-famous BBQ chicken wing recipe, and let’s enjoy this game. The Utah Jazz will be revealing the new Utah-themed jerseys as well as the matching court. You lucky ones who will make it to the game should definitely let us know your impressions.
While the Warriors are 7-8 point favorites in Vegas, it should be an entertaining must-watch regardless. In a game like this you don’t necessarily expect to win, you just expect to see the full extent of your team’s heart and competitive nature. If the Jazz end up winning that’s a huge bonus.
Game Info:
When: Tuesday, January 30, 7 PM (MST)
Where: Vivint SmartHome Arena, Salt Lake City, Utah
TV: AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain
Radio: 1280 and 97.5 The Zone
Injuries:
Utah Jazz:
Rodney Hood - Leg (day-to-day)
Thabo Sefolosha - Knee (out for season)
Dante Exum - Shoulder (targeting return after all-star break)
Golden State Warriors:
Stephen Curry - Shoulder (probable)
Kevon Looney - Illness (out Tuesday)
Patrick McCaw - Back (day-to-day)
Jordan Bell - Ankle (day-to-day)
What To Watch For:
Klay Thompson vs. Donovan Mitchell
Klay Thompson is known for his silky-smooth 3pt shot, but is an underrated defender. In my opinion he could be on one of the all-defensive teams this year. It will be interesting to see what he and the Warriors throw our way to slow down Donovan Mitchell, and it will be interesting to see what Donovan and Quin come up with to counter.
Utah’s rediscovered defensive identity
Since Rudy Gobert’s return, the Utah Jazz have been playing defense with a different tune. That improved defense has led them to consecutive wins for the first time since December and two consecutive road wins—one of which was against one of the top Eastern Conference teams, the Toronto Raptors.
That defense will be tested against the dynamic and offensive buzzsaw that is the Golden State Warriors. Can the Utah Jazz surprise the defending NBA champs?
Most Likely Jazz Killer: Steph Curry
In January, Steph has been scorching hot, shooting 48% from the three-point line, and averaging 6.8 AST and 5.4 REB per game. He is also averaging 7.3 FTA per game, which brings him up to a whopping 30.9 PPG. Kevin Durant also tends to have some decent games against the Jazz, and will be somebody to keep an eye on. Golden State has a dangerous team, and is the title favorite for a reason. If we slow down Steph, they have three more guys who can go absolute bananas on us.
We may not be the favorites to win this game by any means, but Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell are hungry to prove themselves. Never, ever underestimate the heart of an underdog.