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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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 09: Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Utah Jazz attempts a layup between Rui Hachimura #28 and Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a 128-117 Lakers win at Crypto.com Arena on April 09, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 09: Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Utah Jazz attempts a layup between Rui Hachimura #28 and Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers during a 128-117 Lakers win at Crypto.com Arena on April 09, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Harry How/Getty Images) /

Matchup #2 – at Los Angeles Lakers – November 21, 2023

With the 14th game of the season, the Utah Jazz will face off with LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers as part of the NBA In-Season Tournament.

The Lakers have their core returning, but a whole new supporting cast.  It’s a risky endeavor after reaching the Western Conference Finals to change so much of a team, but having James and Davis provides enough star power and leadership to ensure that the roles on the team are well-defined. The Lakers have a much easier schedule than the Jazz early on, with 8 of their first 15 games against playoff or play-in teams from a year ago, which could lead to them having one of the better records in the West by the time the Jazz face them.

The Jazz should have a better idea of who they are by the time this game rolls around, and if John Collins and Lauri Markkanen are clicking as a forward pairing, this game could be the ultimate test.  James and Davis are a deadly duo but can be slowed or limited when a team follows their game plan to the letter.

The Jazz and Lakers split their games 2-2 last season, with the Jazz winning early and the Lakers winning late, so it’s anyone’s game this time around. The atmosphere of the In-Season tournament may give the Jazz a lift, but with the game being in Los Angeles, it might be a tall order for the Jazz in this one.

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