The J-Notes
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Utah Jazz at Chicago Bulls: Keys to snapping the losing streak

By Jared Woodcox

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - NOVEMBER 22: Kris Dunn #32 of the Chicago Bulls shoots the ball against the Utah Jazz on November 22, 2017 at Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - NOVEMBER 22: Kris Dunn #32 of the Chicago Bulls shoots the ball against the Utah Jazz on November 22, 2017 at Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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CHICAGO, IL – DECEMBER 11: Robin Lopez #42 of the Chicago Bulls tickles the beard of Nikola Mirotic #44 of the Chicago Bulls after Mirotic came out of the game against the Boston Celtics at the United Center on December 11, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Celtics 108-85. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL – DECEMBER 11: Robin Lopez #42 of the Chicago Bulls tickles the beard of Nikola Mirotic #44 of the Chicago Bulls after Mirotic came out of the game against the Boston Celtics at the United Center on December 11, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. The Bulls defeated the Celtics 108-85. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Key No. 1 – Don’t get caught unaware

As I mentioned in the intro, the Bulls have been red hot of late and their confidence is likely sky-high after doubling their win count in a matter of three games. Although this contest has largely been assumed as an easy win for the Jazz, Chicago has been playing well, they have absolutely nothing to lose and Utah has been terrible on the road.

That’s a dangerous combo that seems to have all the indications of a trap game. If the Jazz are to stay afloat and within the playoff mix by the start of the new calendar year, they’re going to need to remain right around .500 by the end of December, thus winnable games such as this contest against Chicago are nothing short of a must-win.

https://twitter.com/chicagobulls/status/940418564649037824

Utah absolutely dominated the Bulls the last time these two teams met, winning by a score of 110-80. So, the Jazz should have plenty of confidence. However, if they’re to win this time around, that confidence must not turn into complacency. The Jazz need to come out with energy, respect their opponent and figure out a way to earn a win on the road which has been a massive struggle for them this season.

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