The Utah Jazz (37-37) will be tested Wednesday night as they take on the NBA-best Golden State Warriors (66-7) at Vivint Smart Home Arena at 7:00 PM. The Jazz returned to practice today following Monday’s blowout win against the Los Angeles Lakes 123-75. The Jazz continue to fight for playoff positioning in the Western Conference as they are currently the 7th seed. They trail the Portland Trail Blazers (39-36) for the 6th spot. They lead both the Houston Rockets (36-38) and Dallas Mavericks (36-38) by a game. The Warriors are at home tonight as they take on the Washington Wizards, which may help the Jazz sneak out a win on Wednesday. However, the Warriors are unbelievable at home, so the starters may come into the game somewhat rested. The Houston Rockets are in Cleveland tonight as they are taking on the Cavaliers at 6:00 PM.
Here is Utah Jazz Head Coach Quin Snyder with the media following practice today:
The Jazz will need to have another outstanding offensive performance tomorrow if they want to have any chance of winning. They will also need to continue to play well on the defensive side of the ball. They are the second best team in the NBA in scoring defense as they are holding their opponents to 96.1 points per game. The Jazz come into the game hot as they have won 8 out of their last 10 games. This is a fun time of the year for the NBA as the regular season is coming to a close. 8 games remain for the Jazz, each game is critical as a lot still needs to be determined.
Shelvin Mack has been with the Jazz for 20 games now since he was traded. He is averaging 12.4 points and 5.6 assists in that stretch. He is coming off of what Quin Snyder said was his best game with the Utah Jazz on Monday against the Lakers. Shelvin talked with the media after practice. Here is that audio:
Rodney Hood scored 30 points in the first half on Monday. He will have to have another big game on Wednesday against the Warriors for the team to have a chance. Here he is with the media after practice:
