Matchup Overview
In a matchup of contrasting fortunes, the Atlanta Hawks will host the Utah Jazz this Thursday at 7:30 p.m. EST in a cross-conference clash. The Hawks, currently standing ninth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 25-27, have experienced a mixed bag at home with nine wins against 14 losses.
Key Players
Jalen Johnson, a key player for Atlanta, is having a standout season, boasting an impressive average of 8.0 assists per game, contributing to the Hawks’ league-leading 30.7 assists per game overall.
On the other hand, the Jazz are struggling with a record of 16-35, placing them 13th in the Western Conference. They have found it particularly tough on the road, winning only six of 24 away games. Utah ranks high in rebounding, with an average of 43.7 rebounds per game, largely thanks to Jusuf Nurkic’s 10.2 boards per outing.
Offensive Stats
The offensive stats reveal a close contest ahead; the Hawks shoot 47.3% from the field, slightly lower than the 49.2% they allow their opponents—faced by a Jazz team hitting 46.8% from the floor, which is just below the 47.6% opponents typically score against Atlanta.
Previous Meeting
This will be the second meeting of the season between the teams, with the Hawks previously defeating the Jazz 132-122 on November 14, where Onyeka Okongwu delivered an outstanding performance with 32 points, while Lauri Markkanen led Utah with 40 points.
Prominent Players to Watch
Prominent players to watch include Johnson, who averages 23.2 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 8.0 assists for the Hawks, and CJ McCollum, contributing an average of 18.7 points along with 4.1 rebounds over his last 10 games. For the Jazz, Jaren Jackson Jr. is averaging 19.2 points and 5.8 rebounds, while Keyonte George is contributing 18.9 points with a shooting efficiency of 48.0%, also over his last 10 games.
Recent Performance
In their last ten games, the Hawks have recorded a balanced performance, going 5-5 while averaging 113.7 points and maintaining a shooting percentage of 45.1%. Conversely, the Jazz have struggled recently, posting a 2-8 record with averages of 113.9 points but allowing opponents to dominate with an average of 124.9 points against.
Injury Updates
Injuries could play a role in the game as well, with several players listed as day-to-day for both teams. For the Hawks, Onyeka Okongwu and Kristaps Porzingis are uncertain for the game due to injury concerns. Meanwhile, the Jazz are dealing with Kevin Love and Keyonte George being day-to-day.
Conclusion
As the teams prepare for this important matchup, fans can expect a thrilling game filled with high stakes and electric performances.
