10/20 Utah Jazz at Minnesota Timberwolves: Keys to the Game

Key #2 – Lock Down the Perimeter

Despite the fact that one of the major concerns facing the Timberwolves going into this season is their spotty three-point shooting and potential lack of floor spacing, they actually converted extremely well from deep in their season opener, going 42.1 percent (8-of-19). Meanwhile, in Utah’s season opener, they allowed the Nuggets to have their way from behind the arc (especially in the first half) as Denver finished shooting an electrifying 48.1 percent (13-of-27).

Defending the perimeter was a bit of a struggle for the Jazz during preseason as well, so they’ll really need to shore up in that area now that they are in the thick of the heightened stakes of regular season play. Although the Jazz boasted a phenomenal overall defense last season, their perimeter defense wasn’t all that impressive as they finished just 17th in the league in opponent three-point shooting percentage (35.8).

It should be noted, however, that Utah also held opponents to the second least amount of three-point attempts (22.9 per game) which clearly indicates that their ability to run opponents off the three-point line was a key part of their defense. With that mindset, the Jazz could potentially give up a relatively high overall percentage to their opponents, but if they’re limiting shots from deep in the first place, it could all balance out.

Meanwhile, although the Wolves came out strong from behind the arc in their first game, I still think three-point shooting could be a significant area of weakness for them this year. Therefore, it will be vital that the Jazz capitalize on that fact and look to contain Minnesota on the perimeter rather than let them log easy points in an area that may prove to be uncharacteristic for the Timberwolves.