Trail Blazers Snap 7-Game Losing Streak in 121-105 Win Over Jazz
On Wednesday night, the Utah Jazz were dismantled 121-105 by the Portland Trail Blazers on the road. It was the second consecutive dousing delivered to the Jazz with no legitimate explanation as to why.
The Trail Blazers entered this contest on a seven-game losing streak and were widely regarded as a bottom dweller this season. These issues didn't derail Portland's attitude against the Jazz, as it was able to compile an impressive victory even without the services of starting center Deandre Ayton.
The Jazz are currently without starting center Walker Kessler due to injury and orchestrated a subtle change to the starting line-up. Kelly Olynk joined the starters, while Ochai Agbaji was relegated back to a reserve role.
I was not excited about Agbaji's benching due to his looming defensive presence, which the Jazz lack, particularly without Kessler.
All Jazz starters were able to reach double-figures with their scoring efforts led by Lauri Markkanen and rookie sensation Keyonte George, who scored 24 and 16 points, respectively. Markkanen added nine rebounds, and George handed out a team-high seven assists.
Numerical figures were not an issue against the Blazers. However, the sheer effort and grit weren't as noticeable as we've become accustomed to when watching the Jazz. In fact, 11 of the 12 Jazzmen who received game time minutes registered negative game ratings, including all of the starters.
It's quite difficult to rebound from a disastrous start to an NBA contest, but the Jazz must focus on breaking this cycle. The Blazers were dialed in from the starting tip-off and received solid contributions from multiple rostered players.
Forward Jerami Grant led the charge by scoring 30 points, shooting 77% from the field, and connecting on 5-of-6 three-point shots. Guard Malcolm Brogdon tossed in 20 points along with eight assists, and reserve Center Jabari Walker posted 19 points and 10 rebounds. The Blazers group as a whole was able to infiltrate a solid game plan.
Hopefully, the Jazz can enjoy some Thanksgiving treats before hosting the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night at the Delta Center at 7:30 PM. Also, Happy Thanksgiving, Jazz Nation.
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