Utah Jazz vs. Indiana Pacers: Keys to the Game

Key Performer – George Hill

I’ve got to admit, with now three straight less than memorable games for George Hill, I’m starting to get a little nervous about how long this current slump is going to last. Nevertheless, even when Hill’s shots aren’t falling there’s so much that he does to make his team better that there’s no questioning how good he’s been for this Jazz team all year.

And not only is Hill overdue for a bounceback game in which he puts up the numbers we came to expect from him early in the season, but he should have more than enough motivation to play well against his former team that was all too eager to ship him out.

Therefore, the match-up between him and Jeff Teague should be an intriguing one to watch. Teague is a speedy point guard who honestly gave Hill some troubles when Indiana and Atlanta faced off several times in the playoffs, but Teague is far from being a lock-down defender, so Hill should enjoy a significant advantage over him on the offensive end.

I fully expect Hill to come out with a bit of a chip on his shoulder and with a lot to prove. Despite the fact that defense was once Indiana’s calling card back when Hill was a member of their team, it has not been a strong suit for the Pacers this year. With that being the case, you can bet that Hill will be eager to take advantage and punish his former team for their foolish change in mantra that was accelerated upon trading him away.

With guys like the aforementioned Jeff Teague, Monta Ellis and Aaron Brooks set to attempt to contain Hill, he could very well go off in a big way to exact his revenge, prove his offensive proficiency and lead the Jazz to a solid home victory and their sixth straight win.