On Monday night, the Washington Wizards (9-51) will finish their three-game West Coast road trip in Salt Lake City by taking on the Utah Jazz (27-34). Here’s everything you need to know.
OR: Delta Center (Salt Lake City, UT)
WHEN: 9:00 p.m. ET
TV: Monumental Sports Network
RADIO: Team 980 and the Wizards application
MAGICIANS:
Isaiah Lives (right hip joint capsule inflammation – absent)
JAZZ:
Walker Kessler (sprained right foot – absent)
Lauri Markkanen (right quadriceps contusion – absent)
SEIZURE ON KEYONTE GEORGE
Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George has been one of the most notable rookies in the league this season. He averages over 12 points and nearly five assists in 27 minutes per game. He’s shaping up to be one of the first interceptions in the 2023 NBA draft.
Although George has shown flashes throughout the season, he has been even better as of late. Over the Jazz’s last six games, George has averaged excellent 20 points with shooting splits of .434/.436/.833, along with six assists and 2.7 rebounds. On Monday, his role will be even more important with Jazz star Lauri Markkanen sidelined due to injury.
Wizards wings Deni Avdija and Bilal Coulibaly will likely assume most of George’s defensive responsibilities. Their length and athleticism will be a unique counterbalance to George’s speed and skill. Plus, any time two of the best rookies go head-to-head, it’s always a fun time. Keep a close eye on the Coulibaly-George match.
This season, the Jazz have struggled to protect the rock. They have the worst turnover rate in the league (15.5%). They lead the league in turnovers per game (15.8). And they allow the second-most points on turnovers per game (19.3). This is great news for the Wizards, as forcing turnovers and getting out in transition is one of their greatest strengths.
Washington is at its best when it is able to turn defense into offense. They are tied for third in most turnover points per game (17.9) and second in fast break points (18.1). If the Wizards can jump the passing lanes and disrupt the ball handlers with pressure, they will be in a good position to come away with a victory.
Another facet of the game that Wizards can look to control is the paint battle. The Jazz are struggling with paint defense. They are in the bottom third of the league in paint points allowed per game (52.2). Fortunately, this is an area in which the Wizards excel. They are third in the NBA in paint points, averaging 55.5 per game.
This is where Avdija, Kyle Kuzma and Jordan Poole can aim to take over.
Avdija, Kuzma and Poole are all at their best when they put the ball on the deck and go downhill. Whether it’s Avdija and Kuzma using their strength and length or Poole using his quickness and handling, these three guys are a nightmare for opponents who struggle to defend their paint.
