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Utah Jazz injury report: Donovan Mitchell questionable again

By Jared Woodcox

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JANUARY 30: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz looks on during a time out in the second half of a game won by the Jazz 129-99 over the Golden State Warriors at Vivint Smart Home Arena on January 30, 2018 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. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JANUARY 30: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz looks on during a time out in the second half of a game won by the Jazz 129-99 over the Golden State Warriors at Vivint Smart Home Arena on January 30, 2018 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. (Photo by Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images) /
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Donovan Mitchell is questionable to play tonight, but Rodney Hood and Joe Johnson will likely hit the floor for the Utah Jazz.

Leading up to the game between the Utah Jazz and San Antonio Spurs, the Jazz announced the disappointing news that Donovan Mitchell would not play in Saturday’s contest due to experiencing flu-like symptoms. It was obviously a disheartening report and many fans then went on to count out the Jazz, assuming a road win over the Spurs couldn’t be done without the team’s leading scorer.

Nevertheless, several Jazzmen stepped up in his absence, most notably Ricky Rubio and fellow rookie Royce O’Neale, and the Jazz were somehow able to steal one against the Spurs. However, despite that impressive victory, playing without Mitchell certainly isn’t something the Jazz want to get accustomed to and having him back on the court will undoubtedly increase their chances of winning immediately.

Unfortunately, they may have to go at least one more game without him as Mitchell is listed as ‘questionable’ on tonight’s injury report for the game against the New Orleans Pelicans as he continues to deal with flu-like symptoms.

This is a step above doubtful and if Donovan is able to give it a go, I can almost guarantee he will, even if he’s not quite at one hundred percent. Tonight’s contest in New Orleans is extremely important and could have major playoff implications, so the Jazz will want their prolific rookie in action if he can be.

Joining him on the injury report are Joe Johnson and Rodney Hood. Johnson rested against the Spurs, but should be ready to go tonight. Some speculated that perhaps Iso Joe sat out due to a potential impending trade, but especially considering that he’s suiting back up tonight, it’s more than likely that he was held out simply as a precautionary measure to preserve the 36-year-old amidst a busy schedule.

Rodney Hood, who made his return in San Antonio after dealing with a leg contusion, is listed as probable, meaning it’s more than likely that he’ll play, but expect the Jazz to keep a close eye on him to ensure he doesn’t worsen the injury. Hood has been mentioned as being on the trade block of late, so if something is in the works, Utah likely won’t want to risk him further aggravating his leg and potentially lowering his trade value.

He was on a minutes restriction last game and finished with five points which included a timely three late in the game.

If Mitchell is out once again tonight, hopefully Rodney Hood will be able to help pick up some of the offensive slack while Ricky Rubio and Royce O’Neale will carry over their electrifying play from the previous contest. If Mitchell is back, hopefully he matches his performance from the first time the Jazz and Pelicans met where he dropped 41 points on New Orleans to will Utah to victory.

Next: Utah Jazz: Three predictions leading up to the trade deadline

Either way, we should be in for an exciting contest with a potential playoff feel to it as these two teams may very well be battling for a spot in the postseason for the remainder of the regular season. The Jazz and Pelicans tip-off tonight at 6:00 PM MT.