Utah Jazz vs Oklahoma City Thunder Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 18/01/2024, 08:00  by Devesh Jaganath in NBA Predictions

The Utah Jazz will play host to the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Delta Center in the NBA on Thursday night. The hosts are 22-20 and ninth in the Western Conference, while the visitors are 27-13 and currently in second place. 

The Oklahoma City Thunder have maintained decent form, winning nine of their last 13 games overall, but they aim to halt a two-game skid after facing a 128-117 defeat at the hands of the Clippers in a recent road contest on Tuesday. Jalen Williams led the team with 25 points and seven assists on 10-of-14 shooting, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luguentz Dort each contributed 19 points. Offensively, the Thunder have excelled this season, securing the third spot in the NBA's scoring charts with an average of 121.9 points per game. On the defensive end, they rank 14th in the league, allowing an average of 113.7 points per game. In contrast, the Jazz allow the 22nd-fewest points per game in the league, conceding 118.2 points. The Thunder, with a clean injury report as of Wednesday afternoon, are expected to have everyone available for this upcoming game.

Meanwhile, the Utah Jazz have been on a hot streak, securing victories in 12 of their last 14 games overall. Due to a postponed game, they haven't played since their 132-105 win over the Pacers on Monday. Lauri Markkanen led the charge in that match with an impressive performance of 32 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists, while Collin Sexton added 30 points with five assists. Offensively, the Jazz currently rank 11th in the NBA, scoring an average of 116.8 points per game, while the Oklahoma City Thunder's defense is 14th in points allowed per game, conceding 113.7 points. Defensively, the Jazz are positioned 22nd in the league, allowing 118.2 points per contest. Notably, Utah have shown stronger defensive performances at Delta Center this season, conceding 5.5 fewer points (115.3) compared to their road games (120.8). The Jazz have a clean injury report entering this upcoming match.