Prediction – Jazz 104, Blazers 101
Although Utah won handily thanks to a strong second half the last time they faced the Portland Trail Blazers, I don’t think it’s going to be so easy this time around. Both teams know that there’s a lot at stake involved with this game and each will likely come out with heightened intensity that could create a playoff-like atmosphere.
Nevertheless, especially since the game is in Salt Lake and considering how well the Jazz looked before the break and how well they’ve played against the Blazers this year, I’m going to pin them as being able to eke out a close and hard-fought bout tonight.
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The Jazz are certainly being tested right away after the break with a good opponent in the Portland Trail Blazers. Since they currently sit in just 10th place in the West, they’ll need to pull out a lot of tough wins if they are to make the playoffs, so ideally they’ll just get started with that right away tonight.
The showdown between the Utah Jazz and Blazers tips off this evening at 7:00 PM MT.