Jazz 127, Mavericks 90: 3 Key Takeaways
The Utah Jazz smashed the Dallas Mavericks on a grand New Year's Day at the Delta Center in SLC., 127-90. This contest was pretty much decided in the first quarter as the Jazz once again showed the depth of their roster is a force in this league.
Forward Simone Fontecchio led his team in scoring with 24 points, an eye-popping +27 game rating, six rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one blocked shot. He was the trendsetter for the Jazz, and his mates certainly followed his lead.
With that said, let's dissect some key takeaways from the contest.
Jazz Continue to Climb the Standings
The Jazz are currently sporting a 15-19 record and rank 12th of 15 teams in the Western Conference. However, Utah is only four games away from an actual playoff spot.
Looking across the league, several teams ranked ahead of the Jazz are experiencing troubled waters, with more losses likely coming their way. The Jazz are facing a difficult upcoming schedule, but so are other teams.
There is no crystal ball on what may happen prior to the trade deadline, but the construction of this roster will keep the Jazz rising in the Western Conference.
Triple-Double Drought is Over
Jordan Clarkson finally ended this drought by scoring 20 points, dropping 11 assists, and grabbing 10 rebounds in a reserve role. I have noted for quite some time that he is best utilized coming off the bench.
Clarkson won an accolade as the Sixth Man of the Year and demonstrated how explosive he can be. There is nothing wrong with excelling as a reserve, as he accomplished a feat last completed by Carlos Boozer in 2008. If the Jazz plan to retain Clarkson, he should continue to bolster the reserves.
Game Ratings Matter
The final score was 127-90 in favor of the Jazz, with no Maverick posting a positive game rating. The Jazz, on the other hand, unleashed five players who posted +27 or higher ratings.
Fontecchio +27, Kelly Olynyk +28, Clarkson +36, Walker Kessler +37, and Keyonte George +38. Monday night's game was further proof that you are not defeating the Jazz with a one or two-man band.
What an excellent way for the Jazz to ring in the New Year. Next up are the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night at the Delta Center. Early prediction? Take the Jazz in a double-digit victory.
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