Jazz Update Markkanen & Clarkson's Status for Kings Matchup
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The Utah Jazz aren't doing much to disabuse skeptics of the team's purported intention to tank what remains of the season. Or, at least, that's how the new injury report will read to some fans.
With the Sacramento Kings coming to town on Monday night, the Jazz have ruled out a trio of starters, including All-Star Lauri Markkanen (back) — the newest arrival to the injury report — shooting guard Jordan Clarkson (thumb), and point guard Collin Sexton (hamstring). Clarkson is set to miss his eighth game in the last nine, while Sexton hasn't suited up since February 15.
It's a shame because Markkanen is coming off a signature performance in Saturday night's win over the Boston Celtics, and with Clarkson out, too, it'll be hard for the Jazz to fill that All-Star vacuum.
As for the Kings, point forward Trey Lyles (shoulder) is questionable for Monday night, as is shooting guard Kevin Huerter. The Kings currently hold the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference and are licking their chops at the prospect of facing a depleted Jazz roster missing three starters, even on the road. The Jazz hold the No. 11 seed for now.
Saturday night marked the beginning of a four-game homestand for the Jazz, and they took care of business in the first matchup. In order to maximize what remains of the season and defy the odds of facing the NBA's most difficult remaining schedule, the Jazz will need a collective Herculean effort on Monday night vs. the Kings.
The sun shines on the Jazz when they're at home and even missing key contributors, it's incumbent upon coach Will Hardy to make hay while he can.
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