Prediction – Jazz 111, Timberwolves 97
Although the last bout between these two teams certainly left a bad taste in fans’ mouths, I’m wholeheartedly expecting a much different result this time around. Utah is coming in off of two days of rest while Minnesota is playing on the second night of a back-to-back. The Jazz have plenty of motivation and lots to play for while the Timberwolves’ only reason for anticipation at this point is regarding where they’ll land in the 2017 NBA Draft order.
Therefore, I’m sticking with my prediction from earlier in the week and pinning the Jazz as winners by a score of 111-97. If they come out with the same energy and focus that they had against Portland, regardless of what injuries they face they should still be able to come away with another comfortable win.
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Nevertheless, it’s worth mentioning that while on the surface there’s a lot of evidence that would point to this being an easy Jazz victory, this young Wolves squad certainly isn’t one to be slept on. They’ve surprised teams all season long, including the Jazz a mere month ago.
Already this week they pulled off an impressive win over the Portland Trail Blazers, who before the run-ins with the Jazz and Timberwolves, had been one of the hottest teams in the league. Minnesota likely would have defeated them a second time last night as well had it not been for a fourth quarter collapse.
Therefore, Minnesota can’t be counted out and the Jazz need to come in as focused and determined as ever if they hope to get a win.
All stats courtesy of NBA.com