Fix the defensive struggles
Utah has hung it’s hat on being an elite defensive team. Since their disappointing loss to Atlanta on January 22nd, Utah’s defense has been head and shoulders above the rest of the NBA, posting a mind boggling 96.6 Defensive Rating during the stretch. No other team is even below 100, as the second best team in the league is at 101.5.
That is why it has been so surprising to see the Jazz struggle over the past six games. It’s been impossible not to notice the dip in play. At first, most pointed towards the offense, but the Jazz have actually been a bit better on that end of the floor over the last six games. The real culprit has been the team’s defense, which has been at a 104.7 during that stretch.
Minnesota has an Offensive Rating of 111 on the season, which is the fourth best mark in the NBA. Utah is not going to be able to win this game if they don’t raise their level of play on the side of the court they are best known for. Expect the Jazz to be much more aggressive and physical on the defensive side of the ball. If they do, they can come out on top.