Cleveland Cavaliers at Utah Jazz Game Preview

Cleveland looked to have a win over Sacramento, but they just couldn’t get the final stop. DeAaron Fox threw a pass the length of the floor to Harrison Barnes, who caught it and knocked in a three as time expired. Leading by one before shot, all the Cavs could do is watch as Barnes put the game to bed. It’s been that kind of stretch for them.

Utah meanwhile has Cleveland to thank for this year. They were able to acquire Jordan Clarkson from them last year, and he has fit in perfectly from day one. The likely sixth man of the year winner, Clarkson, has been getting buckets all year long. At full strength, a Conley-Mitchell backcourt that is complemented by JC is tremendous. This is a team that is very dangerous and should continue to be taken seriously rather than be looked at as an afterthought.

Cavs Seek Road Victory

The spread for the contest has the Cavs serving as 15-point underdogs. Few folks, if any, believe they have any chance. And when these teams first got together, Utah started dominating from the time the jump ball went into the air. There was never a chance. And that game was played in Cleveland, so now that the scene shifts to Utah, the situation will likely be even harder.

Coming off a loss as the Cavs did, there is only one way to do things. And it is the keep moving forward motto. All they can do is try and forget about that contest and just try and look ahead. You cannot change the past, but you can create a better future. Cleveland might also be without a center for this game, as Jarrett Allen is in concussion protocol.

If Larry Nance Jr. winds up at starting center, send well wishes his way as he battles Rudy Gobert.

Jazz Seeking Another Home Win

At 34-11, Utah has exceeded every single expectation. They have overcome a slight cold spell to get back to their winning ways. The Jazz picked up back-to-back wins over the Grizzlies over the weekend, giving them some positive vibes heading into the showdown with the Cavs. They are probably not fretting too much.

And if we have learned one thing from this year’s NBA, it’s that you need to plan every single game. NBA players are in the league for a reason, no matter what the team’s record is. The Cavs have received good production from guys like Brodric Thomas and Dean Wade of late, each making a case to stick with the franchise long term. Those are the players Utah should be wary of.

Sexton and Donovan Mitchell will both score a lot in this one. But the game will be decided by the role players. Joe Ingles, Royce O’Neale, and Clarkson will need to play well to ensure a win for Utah.