2/6 Utah vs. Phoenix
7:00 pm MT – AT&T SportsNet/League Pass
Opponent record: 11-44
Season series: Tied 0-0
The Western Conference is loaded with talent nearly from top to bottom. Even the teams that are far out of the playoffs should be viewed as a threat night in and night out, save for one. The lone exception to that is none other than the hapless Phoenix Suns, who reside at dead last in the West with a dismal record of 11-44.
There was optimism, even among the ranks of Utah Jazz fans I believe, that former Jazz assistant coach Igor Kokoskov could help turn things around in Phoenix where the Suns have been bottom-feeders for years now. Unfortunately, a culture so accustomed to losing is hard to change overnight and it’s apparent that Igor still has his work cut out for him.
The Suns have dropped 11 straight contests and are winless since January 12th. They’ve won just four games on the road in 27 tries. They’re third to last in the league in offense and second to last in the league in defense.
Add all that together, and it would feel like this should be an easy win for the Jazz. I tend to agree, but it also has somewhat the feel of a trap game. The Jazz haven’t looked mentally sound of late, likely distracted by thoughts of the trade deadline. The Suns will also be hungry for a win and despite their long losing streak have had some extremely narrow losses. Last of all, Igor will know Utah’s game plan well which could present a challenge for Quin Snyder and Co.
All this considered, there’s still no reason why the Utah Jazz should lose this game. Utah is too talented and the Suns too lackluster. It might not be the prettiest game, but I’m still pinning the Jazz to come out on top.
My Prediction: Jazz Win
Final Score: Utah 119, Phoenix 102