Utah Jazz vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Keys to finishing the month strong

CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 16: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers rallies his teammates in huddle prior to the game against the Utah Jazz at Quicken Loans Arena on December 16, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 16: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers rallies his teammates in huddle prior to the game against the Utah Jazz at Quicken Loans Arena on December 16, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
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Prediction – Cavaliers 105, Jazz 101

While some truly believe that LeBron James is cursed in Salt Lake City (and I certainly hope they’re right), I have a feeling that this will be the year that he finally ends his losing streak in the Beehive State. The Jazz have simply been playing too poorly and the Cavs, despite a recent loss to Sacramento, have been playing too well for me to believe that there will be an upset in Saturday’s contest.

However, the Jazz certainly showed life at home in their recent bout against San Antonio, so if they can come out with that energy and if Hood and Mitchell have huge nights as I mentioned, perhaps Utah will surprise LeBron once again. There’s a few factors in play that make me believe that it’s not outside of the realm of possibilities, however, I still think it’s very unlikely.

Next: Utah Jazz: Rudy Gobert set for re-evaluation, Raul Neto’s status

It may be a closely contested bout, not unlike the last contest in Cleveland, but ultimately I expect the Cavs to pull away.

The game tips off on Saturday at 6:00 PM MT inside Vivint Smart Home Arena.