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Utah Jazz: Top Five Games to Mark on Your Calendar for 2016-17

By Jared Woodcox

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April 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) shoots to score a basket against Utah Jazz during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
April 13, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Kobe Bryant (24) shoots to score a basket against Utah Jazz during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Monday, December 5th at Los Angeles (Lakers)

Speaking of grudge matches and being out for revenge, last season came to a painful conclusion as the Jazz wrapped up their season already knowing they were out of the playoffs, yet still having to serve as the victims of Kobe Bryant‘s vicious (and extremely tightly officiated…) retirement party.

After leading most of the way, the Jazz collapsed in the final minutes as Kobe’s 60 points was enough to propel the Lakers to victory over a hobbled and shorthanded Jazz team.

But the Lakers’ historical domination over the Jazz has been less than prevalent over the last few seasons, and Kobe Bryant’s reign as a Jazz tormentor is officially over. So this road match-up on December 5th will signify a new era where it’s now the Jazz’s turn to be the bullies.

Sure, the Lakers have some nice young pieces in Brandon Ingram, D’Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson, Larry Nance Jr. and Julius Randle, but let’s face it–they’re still quite a few steps away from matching the Jazz’s talent and development and should be no problem for a much improved Jazz squad.

While the pain of last year’s final loss may still be lingering in the mind’s of many Jazz fans, you can take heart in knowing that on December 5th, Utah will have its chance to exact revenge within the dark confines of the vile Staples Center.

Next: Thursday, December 8th vs. Golden State

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