Jazz Come Back to Beat Bucks, 123-108: Two Key Takeaways
On Sunday night, the Utah Jazz defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 123-108 in an absolute thriller at the Delta Center. The Jazz trailed 63-53 at halftime before seizing control of the contest, spearheaded by Collin Sexton's intensity.
The Bucks gradually melted under pressure applied by the Jazz and simply could not handle the heat from the kitchen. The icing on the cake was when Bucks All-Star forward and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo missed two consecutive free-throws with 35 seconds remaining, which rewarded Jazz Nation with free Chic-fil-A!
Now, let's dissect key takeaways from the game.
Depth & Balance
The Jazz operated as a complete unit compared to the Bucks. Seven Jazzmen provided double-figure scoring, led by Lauri Markkanen's 21 points, Collin Sexton's 19 points, and Keyonte George's 19 points and 10 assists. I've touched on the depth of this team all year, and last night, the Jazz served the Bucks a heavy dose of team fever.
The Bucks' most problematic aspect was the production from the starters and reserves. Maybe a lot of it had to do with the Bucks playing back-to-back, but either way, the Jazz were clicking last night.
Loss of Composure
The Bucks seemed in control of this contest until the middle of the third quarter when their foundation began to crumble. Chaos erupted when Sexton challenged Antetokounmpo at the rim on a dunk attempt.
Out of nowhere, former Jazz guard Malik Beasley decided to body-blow Sexton, and both were whistled for technical fouls as this segment of the game exposed a mental weakness for the Bucks. One must now wonder if hiring Bucks coach "Doc" Rivers was a legitimate decision or if keeping former coach Adrian Griffin was better suited for the team.
Rivers has led his recent troops to a 1-5 record since becoming the head man, and the Bucks do not currently resemble a champion.
Bottom Line
After dismantling the Bucks, the Jazz will face the Oklahoma City Thunder tomorrow at the Delta Center. The Jazz will also remain in the 10th spot in the Western Conference, half a lead ahead of the Houston Rockets.
We will know this week if management plans to keep this group intact, as the trade deadline is this Thursday. I think the Jazz should stay put and roll with this unit.
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