The J-Notes
Fansided

4 of the most important early-season games on the Utah Jazz’s schedule

By Dan Lower

Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /
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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – FEBRUARY 08: Jaden McDaniels #3 of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends against Jordan Clarkson #00 of the Utah Jazz during the first half at Vivint Arena on February 08, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – FEBRUARY 08: Jaden McDaniels #3 of the Minnesota Timberwolves defends against Jordan Clarkson #00 of the Utah Jazz during the first half at Vivint Arena on February 08, 2023 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 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 Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

Matchup #3 – at Minnesota Timberwolves – November 4, 2023

With the seventh game of the NBA season, the Utah Jazz embark on their first extended road trip.  They start by facing the Minnesota Timberwolves and former Jazzmen Rudy Gobert and Mike Conley.

The Wolves return much of their core that finished last season, including big men Karl Anthony-Towns, Naz Reid, and of course Gobert. The most difficult player for Utah to stop will undoubtedly be Anthony Edwards, their young star guard who averaged 24.6 points per game in 2022-23.  They shouldn’t discount Mike Conley either, as he knows the Jazz’s schemes very well and will be actively looking to exploit the young Jazz guards.

This game is more important than fans might think, as it will set the tone for the remainder of the road trip. After this game, the Jazz will face Chicago, Indiana, and Memphis before returning home to play the Portland Trail Blazers on November 14th.

Most of these games could be considered winnable for the Jazz, especially compared to the first 4 games on the schedule (Sacramento, LA Clippers, Phoenix, and Denver).

The Jazz went 2-2 against the Wolves last season, winning both games on the road but losing the two in Salt Lake City. Walker Kessler could be the X-Factor if he can tilt the rebounding in the Jazz’s favor.  This game will be tough, but as the Jazz showed last year, they can beat the Wolves on the road.

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