Jazz Blown Out by Nets, 147-114: Three Key Takeaways
On Monday night, the Utah Jazz were doused from the perimeter by the Brooklyn Nets and were blown out of the building, 147-114. This final score accurately revealed the game's dynamics as the Nets sizzled from the three-point line at a 47% clip.
When the final buzzer sounded, the Jazz had surrendered 21-of-45 shots from downtown, which resulted in another road loss. I was a bit surprised at the final score due to Jazz displaying quality team basketball as of late.
However, the Nets' performance is an indicator of how close in talent these athletes are on any given night and what can happen if a team is on the opposite side of shot conversion.
What else did we learn? Let's dive into three takeaways that assisted in the final outcome.
Plus/Minus Ratings Tell the Tale
I must admit how fond I am of the plus/minus system. The numbers based on a player's performance are usually accurate, and no one shoulders responsibility except the player himself.
Rarely does one team register everyone on the positive side, but the Nets managed to do so. And rarely do have an entire team register on the negative side, but the Jazz accomplished this feat, which partially explains the blow-out outcome.
The Nets were led in scoring by guard/forward, who scored 33 points and added a +33 rating. The Nets as a team posted a +33 rating, which is basically unheard of in NBA competition. The Jazz, on the other hand, were led in scoring by guard Keyonte George, who tossed in 21 points, but he added a -26 rating. As a team, the Jazz posted a -33 rating and was glad when the final buzzer sounded.
Jazz Nation should be aware this is a rare game script occurrence and can expect a more fruitful outing against their next opponent.
Power of the 3-Ball
The Jazz connected on nine shots from distance on 21 attempts, totaling 33%. Nine long-distance makes in today's NBA market almost guarantee a loss each time this occurs. Most NBA teams roster a couple of players who can establish rhythm and connect nine times from deep individually, let alone if a team catches fire.
This exact theme was on full display against the Nets, as Bridges connected on six three-point shots, and his team followed his lead. The Jazz were unable to halt the momentum, leading to their lack of success as a unit.
Lack of Energy
The Jazz displayed effort, but their energy as a unit seemed lacking. The even distribution of game minutes indicates that coach Will Hardy was searching for a successful group and was not rewarded.
Sometimes, when your starting unit is lacking, a boost may be inserted from your reserves, but nothing could seem to offset the Nets chemistry. We will chalk this game up as a team that happens to battle their opponent on the wrong day.
Bottom Line
The Jazz would be eligible for postseason action if the season ended today. Although this contest did not work favorably for the Jazz, the overall team record is 24-24, with a one-game lead over the Houston Rockets.
The Jazz will face the New York Knicks on Tuesday in the Big Apple at 5:30 p.m. MST.
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