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Utah Jazz at New Orleans Pelicans: Keys to the Game

By Jared Woodcox

Feb 10, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Utah Jazz forward Derrick Favors (15) and New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the fourth quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Jazz 100-96. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 10, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Utah Jazz forward Derrick Favors (15) and New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the fourth quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans defeated the Jazz 100-96. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 6, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) dunks against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 120-95. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 6, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Utah Jazz forward Gordon Hayward (20) dunks against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at Philips Arena. The Hawks won 120-95. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

Key Performer – Gordon Hayward

Gordon Hayward is beyond all doubt confirming that his All-Star selection was no mistake. He has hit the 30-point mark in both of his last two outings and has been phenomenal in every aspect for this rising Jazz squad.

And in tomorrow’s contest against the Pelicans, Hayward should have a great opportunity to showcase his skills once again. He’ll primarily be matched up against Solomon Hill who is a solid defender, but not so daunting as to be able to shut down a red-hot Gordon Hayward.

Not to mention, Hill has struggled immensely on offense this year as he’s logging just 6.3 points per game while shooting under 40 percent from the field and under 35 percent from deep. His big payday during the offseason was a bit of a head-scratcher and there’s no doubt that it hasn’t really paid that big of dividends for New Orleans so far.

So given that Hayward shouldn’t have his hands too full on defense with the struggling Hill and considering just how well he’s played of late, I’m confident that Utah’s All-Star will once again be on point tomorrow and help lead his team to a big victory.

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