12/12 Utah vs. Miami
7:00 pm MT – AT&T SportsNet/League Pass
Opponent record: 11-14
Season series: Heat lead 1-0
The Utah Jazz’s recent loss to the Miami Heat was a disappointing one. After getting off to an incredible start, a 20-0 run by the Heat got them back in the game and eventually resulted in the Jazz falling short. There were a lot of factors that contributed to the loss, but a lack of focus and discipline was the principal reason.
What makes things even worse was how banged up the Heat were at the time of the contest. They’ve had no shortage of injury woes this season, but the Jazz still couldn’t take advantage. The Jazz will be back at home this time around, but unfortunately it’s another one of those weird single home games, which will likely largely make it feel like just another stop on the road yet again.
Even so, I think we’ll see a much more prepared Jazz team this time around. The Heat managed to sneak past the Jazz last time, but based on Utah’s last two home wins, I think they’ve turned the corner with their home court woes and will similarly dispatch the Heat.
Coach Spo and Co. do a good job against Utah as evidenced by Miami’s four straight wins over the Jazz, so I expect this to be a close-fought battle. When all is said and done, though, I’m picking the Jazz to come out on top.
My Prediction: Jazz Win
Final Score: Utah 103, Miami 101