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Utah Jazz vs. Portland Trail Blazers: Preview, Predictions and Picks for October 18, 2024

Published on:
Oct 18, 2024 7:12 AM
This Friday, October 18, 2024, the Utah Jazz, riding a strong 4-1 start, travel to the Moda Center to face the 2-1 Portland Trail Blazers. The Jazz have been dominant in conference play with a 3-1 record, while the Trail Blazers are undefeated at home with a 1-0 record. Expect a competitive matchup as these Northwest Division rivals clash at 10:00 PM.
Utah Jazz
Portland Trail Blazers

Portland Trail Blazers recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/16/24 vs Ulm W 111-100
10/13/24 @ Sacramento Kings W 105-85
10/11/24 vs LA Clippers L 101-99
4/14/24 @ Sacramento Kings L 121-82
4/12/24 vs Houston Rockets L 116-107

Utah Jazz recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
10/15/24 vs Sacramento Kings W 117-114
10/12/24 @ San Antonio Spurs L 126-120
10/10/24 @ Dallas Mavericks W 107-102
10/7/24 vs Houston Rockets W 122-113
10/4/24 vs New Zealand Breakers W 116-87

Jazz vs Trail Blazers predictions

For the Utah Jazz, Collin Sexton appears primed to have a significant impact given his steady improvement and vital role in the team's offensive schemes. His projected output of 16.1 points and 5 assists in about 25 minutes of play shows his ability to penetrate and make crucial plays, which will be crucial against the Blazers. Another player to watch is Lauri Markkanen, whose consistent scoring and rebounding prowess (projected at 15.8 points and 6.4 rebounds) offer the Jazz a solid frontcourt presence. Walker Kessler’s expected dominance on the defensive end, potentially pulling down over 8 rebounds and blockading with an average of 2.2 blocks, will also be crucial in stifling Portland's interior play.

The Portland Trail Blazers will lean heavily on Anfernee Simons to keep their offense clicking. With a projection of over 13 points and more than 3 assists, his role as a primary scorer and facilitator will be crucial. Additionally, Scoot Henderson could emerge as a difference-maker given his diversity in contributing across the board, with projected numbers hinting at about 13 points and 5 assists, along with being a defensive asset in picking pockets. The Trail Blazers will need big games from these key guards to orchestrate their offense and disrupt the Jazz's rhythm.

Based on the momentum and depth in the squads, the Utah Jazz have a slight edge with more diversified contributions expected across their roster, especially with a slight upper hand in interior defense and scoring from the frontcourt. The pivotal factor could be the battle in the paint, where Utah seems better equipped. While Portland certainly has the firepower to make it competitive, particularly through their backcourt, the Jazz's ability to execute on both ends of the floor might lead them to clinch the victory at Moda Center. Thus, leaning towards Utah's overall team cohesion and strategic advantages in this matchup.

Portland Trail Blazers injuries

  • Jabari Walker (F): Day-To-Day
  • Matisse Thybulle (SG): Day-To-Day
  • Anfernee Simons (SG): Day-To-Day
  • Jerami Grant (SF): Day-To-Day
  • Robert Williams III (C): Out

Utah Jazz injuries

  • Isaiah Collier (G): Out

Jazz vs Trail Blazers game info

Venue Moda Center
Location Portland, OR
Tip-off Fri 10:00 PM

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