3 Takeaways From the Jazz’s Ugly 104-126 Blowout Loss vs. Suns

On the first back-to-back and road trip of the season, the Utah Jazz were found on the opposing end of a disheartening 104-126 loss to the Phoenix Suns. While things were looking up after their nail-biter win against the Los Angeles Clippers the night prior, the team came back down to earth very quickly.

Here are three key takeaways we can gather as the Jazz begin the 2023-24 season with a 1-2 record:

Early Turnovers Set the Tone

In a similar fashion to the Jazz’s opening night game against the Sacramento Kings, things got out of hand pretty quickly into the night. In the first quarter alone, Utah was outmatched in the turnover battle 7-1, and things just continued to unravel.

By the end of the game, Utah had amounted to 19 total turnovers compared to Phoenix’s 11. When you lose in the turnover battle in such a fashion, it’s going to be difficult to come out on top in any game. For Utah to find consistency, controlling the ball better has to be a focus.

Perimeter Defense Issues Persist

While Kevin Durant got his fair share of looks, a good chunk of the Suns’ success came from the backcourt in a game neither Bradley Beal nor Devin Booker played in. Eric Gordon and Grayson Allen were the ones who stepped up, combining for 38 total points with six total threes.

Without Booker or Beal, this should’ve been a game where the Jazz capitalized on the Suns’ lack of depth. Instead, Utah’s perimeter defense continues to remain a question like it had been throughout the offseason.

Keyonte George Continues to Look Promising

Despite the loss, first-round pick Keyonte George continued to show how he could be a cornerstone for this franchise moving forward. In 27 minutes played, he posted 12 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. While the efficiency wasn’t quite there (33.3% from the field), a negative game script and it still being can give him a pass.

Through the night, Keyonte showed some solid decision-making as just a 19-year-old rookie converted tough looks on all three levels. There’s still a bit to be desired defensively, but it is clear Utah has a potential star in the making.

The Jazz will look to bounce back after a tough loss as they travel up to the Mile High to take on the reigning champion Denver Nuggets on Monday at 7 PM MT.

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