The Los Angeles Clippers look to bounce back from a three-game losing streak as they host the struggling Utah Jazz at the Intuit Dome on Monday night. The Clippers (14-12) aim to solidify their position in the Western Conference, while the Jazz (5-19) continue to search for answers in a difficult season.
In their previous meeting on November 17, the Clippers secured a 116-105 victory over the Jazz. James Harden made history in that game by moving into second place on the all-time 3-point shooting list, surpassing Ray Allen. Harden and the Clippers will aim to replicate their success as they face a Jazz team struggling on both ends of the floor.
Utah Jazz
The Jazz enter this game with one of the league’s worst records, highlighted by defensive struggles. Utah ranks 28th in the NBA, allowing 119.3 points per game. Over their last four games, they’ve given up an average of 136 points in their losses. The team’s lone bright spot was a 99-point defensive effort in a win during this stretch.
Offensively, Jordan Clarkson made a strong return from a foot injury, scoring 23 points against the Phoenix Suns on Friday. John Collins added 22 points, and Lauri Markkanen contributed 19 in the same game. Despite shooting an impressive 55.8% from the field and 56.4% from three-point range, the Jazz couldn’t overcome turnovers and defensive lapses in the 134-126 loss to the Suns.
Head coach Will Hardy emphasized the need for better execution in close games, saying, “We were right there. A couple of stops were going to be enough to win, but they made us pay for our mistakes.”
LA Clippers
The Clippers have maintained a respectable record despite the absence of Kawhi Leonard, who remains out with a knee injury. James Harden and Norman Powell have carried the offensive load, with Powell leading the team in scoring at 23.2 points per game. Harden has been effective from beyond the arc recently, shooting 37.2% over his past 11 games.
Defensively, the Clippers rank fifth in the league, allowing just 107.8 points per game. Ivica Zubac has been a force in the paint, averaging 13 rebounds per game in his last outing. The Clippers’ defense will be crucial against a Jazz team that showed offensive efficiency in their recent loss to Phoenix.
Powell expressed optimism about Leonard’s eventual return, stating, “Kawhi’s presence will open up the game for everyone. He’s another level of offense we can’t wait to unlock.” For now, the Clippers will rely on their strong defensive foundation and veteran leadership to snap their losing streak.
Pick and Prediction
The Clippers have a significant edge in this matchup, especially with their defensive capabilities and offensive leadership from Harden and Powell. Utah’s inability to defend consistently makes it difficult to see them pulling off an upset. The Jazz will need a near-perfect performance to keep this game competitive, but the Clippers’ experience and depth should secure the win.
- Prediction: LA Clippers 118, Utah Jazz 104
