Jazz Extend Streak to 6 With 132-105 Win Over Pacers: 3 Key Takeaways
The Utah Jazz experienced minimal resistance while defeating the Indiana Pacers 132-105 in Salt Lake City. The victory marked the sixth straight for the Jazz as they continue to rise in the Western Conference, where they currently sit as the ninth seed.
NBA teams are beginning to feel the depth of this energetic bunch when evaluating the margin of victory opponents are becoming accustomed to. The Jazz have also won nine consecutive home games and boast a 9-1 record over its past 10 contests. Simply stated, the Utah Jazz are red-hot.
Now, let's discuss several key takeaways from last night's game.
Jazz Land Multiple 30-Point Scorers
Lauri Markkanen and Collin Sexton scored 32 and 30 points, respectively, and led the early blitz implemented by the Jazz. Markkanen grabbed 10 rebounds while Sexton handed out five dimes.
To further detail how dominant this duo was, look no further than their game ratings, in which Markkanen posted +25 and Sexton posted +14. The Pacers now agree that the Jazz and its Dynamic Duo stand on business!
Jazz Defensive Strategy Stymies Pacers
The Pacers entered this contest averaging over 126 points per game but managed 105 points against the Jazz. All of the Pacers' starters registered negative game ratings including -24, -28, -8, -18, and -20. The review of these ratings indicates the Jazz overwhelmed its opponent with no escape room in sight.
Complicating matters even further for the Pacers was the lack of bench productivity. Whatever plan the Pacers implemented was countered by the Jazz, which explains why this battle was a complete mismatch.
Outmatched
The Jazz were head and shoulders above the Pacers all night long. In addition to strong results from Markkanen and stifling defensive pressure, the Jazz shot 56% from the field compared to 40% for the Pacers.
The Jazz had 46 boards, and the Pacers had 43 boards. Finally, the Jazz won the assist total and shot a better % from the free-throw line. The Pacers will want to take a comprehensive look at the game film against the Jazz and get back to playing disciplined basketball.
The Jazz are emerging as a team that expects to win each and every night while understanding winning culture means you protect your home court.
Next up is a basketball date with the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. MDT.
Follow Inside The Jazz on Facebook and X.
Subscribe on YouTube for breaking Jazz news videos and live streams!
