Utah Jazz at Cleveland Cavaliers: Keys to first win of 2019

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – DECEMBER 19: Head coach Larry Drew of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts as he watches on against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on December 19, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Key #2 – Punish the worst defensive team in the league

It’s no secret that the Utah Jazz’s offense has gone through some struggles this season. With an overall lack of spacing and a starting backcourt that appears almost allergic to efficiency, putting the ball through the hoop has been a challenge more often than not. Fortunately, the Jazz may very well get a chance to shake some rust off as the Cleveland Cavaliers just so happen to boast the worst defense in the NBA.

As of this writing, their defensive rating sits at 115.2, nearly two points per 100 possessions worse than the 29th ranked New York Knicks. That’s painfully brutal. To make matters worse, their offense isn’t doing much to help either as Cleveland also has the NBA’s worst net rating at a mark of -9.7.

Even though Utah’s offense has had its fair share of issues, those marks should have them salivating. This would be a great game for Utah to get a rhythm offensively and absolutely punish a Cavs team that’s dismal on defense. Ideally, the Jazz will rack up several easy looks and their capitalization on a poor D will reflect in the final score.

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