Previewing LA Clippers v. Utah Jazz
For the second time in three days the Utah Jazz will face off with the LA Clippers at the Staples Center. In their meeting Wednesday, the Jazz dominated the Clippers 114-96, thanks to a dominant 20/20 performance from Rudy Gobert.
While this matchup has playoff implications, the hype is somewhat muted by the current amount of injuries to the Clippers. Stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are both listed as questionable for the game. Further, key role players Luke Kennard and Nicolas Batum are also listed as questionable. Meanwhile, All-Star hopeful Mike Conley is listed as questionable for the Jazz. However, with the game being televised nationally on ESPN, and the opportunity to beat the current best team in the league, perhaps the Clippers will push for their stars to play.
What to watch for: While the Clippers are plagued with injuries, their center rotation is at full health and they still got dominated inside by Gobert. In a potential playoff matchup, Gobert would have to consistently outperform Zubac and Ibaka. So far he has shown that such a task wouldn’t be a problem.
Prediction: Even if the Clippers stars and role players decided to play, I would place my bet on the Jazz (favored by 4). They have won their last 9 and 19 of their last 20 with the only loss coming to a Nuggets team that had their best shooting night of the season.
Jazz at Clippers: Key injuries
Jazz
- PG Mike Conley (hamstring) questionable
Clippers
- SF Kawhi Leonard (leg) questionable
- SG Paul George (toe) questionable
- SF Nicolas Batum (concussion) questionable
- SG Luke Kennard (knee) questionable
How to Watch
Matchup: Utah Jazz (24-5) @ LA Clippers (21-9)
Date: Friday, Feb. 19
Time: 7:00 p.m. PT
Venue: Staples Center
Broadcast Information: ESPN
Betting Info
Spread: Jazz -4
Moneyline: Clippers +146, Jazz -174
Point Total: O/U 225
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
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