Portland Trail Blazers vs Utah Jazz Picks and Predictions December 26th 2024

Jazz Look to Continue Momentum in Rematch Against Trail Blazers

The Utah Jazz are set to conclude their five-game road trip on Thursday night in Portland, aiming to replicate their dominant 42-point victory over the Trail Blazers earlier this month.

On Dec. 6, the Jazz steamrolled Portland 141-99, marking their most lopsided win of the season. Despite missing star forward Lauri Markkanen in that game due to a back injury, Utah’s depth shone brightly. Reserve Johnny Juzang dropped 22 points, while Walker Kessler contributed 13 points, 17 rebounds, and five blocks.

Utah Jazz: Building Confidence

The Jazz (9-14) have had an inconsistent season but are showing signs of cohesion in recent weeks. After consecutive victories over Detroit and Brooklyn, Utah gave Cleveland a strong fight in a 124-113 loss on Monday.

Key Performers:

• Jordan Clarkson: Leading the charge offensively, Clarkson scored 27 points against Cleveland.
• Lauri Markkanen: After missing the previous Portland matchup, he’s back in form, tallying 26 points against the Cavaliers.
• Walker Kessler: Known for his defense, Kessler had 16 rebounds and three blocks in Cleveland, highlighting his growing impact on both ends of the floor.

Coach Will Hardy emphasized the team’s growth in recent weeks:

“The competitiveness, the togetherness that our group is showing has risen a ton in the last two weeks,” Hardy said. “It sets the environment up for real improvement to happen.”

The Jazz are leaning on their defensive improvements, especially Kessler’s ability to dominate the paint, while maintaining a balanced offense led by Clarkson and Markkanen.

Portland Trail Blazers: Searching for Solutions

The Trail Blazers (6-17) are struggling mightily, having lost eight of their last nine games. The recent losses to San Antonio and Dallas showcased issues on both ends of the court, as Portland’s defense faltered, giving up 132 points to the Mavericks on Monday.

Key Issues:

• Offensive Struggles: Portland continues to struggle with offensive consistency, highlighted by Deandre Ayton’s comments about the need to make shots.
• Defensive Woes: Despite emphasizing defense, the Trail Blazers allowed Dallas to shoot efficiently and struggled to contest key shots.

Key Players:

• Deandre Ayton: Scored 16 points against Dallas, but his impact has been inconsistent during the team’s slump.
• Scoot Henderson: The rookie guard remains a bright spot, but he’s still finding his rhythm as the team’s playmaker.

Matchup Highlights

Jazz’s Defensive Growth vs. Blazers’ Offense

Utah’s defense, anchored by Kessler, is becoming more cohesive. The Jazz will look to exploit Portland’s shooting inconsistencies to create fast-break opportunities.

Markkanen’s Return

After missing the Dec. 6 matchup, Markkanen’s presence adds another dynamic scoring option for the Jazz, complementing Clarkson and Sexton.

Portland’s Adjustments

To avoid a repeat of their earlier blowout loss, Portland must start strong and rely on their defense to contain Utah’s versatile offense.

What’s at Stake?

• Utah Jazz: A win would provide momentum heading back home and solidify their recent improvements.
• Portland Trail Blazers: Portland is desperate to stop their slide and reestablish their home-court presence after multiple losses.

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Prediction

The Jazz’s defensive improvements and offensive balance make them favorites in this rematch. While Portland will look to correct its mistakes, Utah’s recent momentum and Markkanen’s presence give them the edge.

Final Score Prediction: Jazz 119, Trail Blazers 105