Portland Trail Blazers vs Utah Jazz Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 14/12/2023, 06:00  by Devesh Jaganath in NBA Predictions

On Thursday, the Portland Trail Blazers will play host to the Utah Jazz at the Moda Center in Oregon. Portland are 6-16 for the season, placing them 13th in the Western Conference, while Utah are 12th with a record of 8-16.

The Utah Jazz will head into this one following their recent home victory against the New York Knicks. The match ended with a final score of 117-113, and Collin Sexton led the team with 26 points. However, despite that result, the Jazz's overall season statistics raise some concerns. Offensively, they are averaging 111.6 points per game, placing them 23rd in the league, while defensively, they’re ranked 25th with an average of 120.0 points allowed per game. They have been particularly vulnerable when defending the paint, with opponents putting up a 48.7% field goal shooting percentage. In divisional matchups, they hold a 2-5 record. The major positive, though, is that the Jazz excel in three-point shooting, averaging 13.3 made shots per game this season. Over their last ten games, Utah has averaged 106.0 points, 46.2 rebounds, 26.2 assists, 7.0 steals, and 6.2 blocks per game. Unfortunately, they will be without John Collins due to injury, while Keyonte George is a doubt.

Portland, meanwhile, will be expecting an improved performance tonight, having enjoyed the last two days off. Their last match resulted in a loss to the LA Clippers on Monday, with a final score of 127-132, marking their fourth consecutive defeat. Anfernee Simons stood out in that game, contributing a team-high 38 points. Finding the major issue this season for the Trail Blazers isn’t that hard, though. Throughout the season, Portland's shooting has been very poor, ranking last in field goal shooting percentage and 25th in three-pointers made. However, their defensive efforts have been relatively better, currently 15th overall in points allowed per game at 113.3. Over the last ten games, Portland have averaged 109.6 points, 38.0 rebounds, 22.6 assists, 9.1 steals, and 3.6 blocks. They will be without Jerami Grant in this game due to a concussion.