The Utah Jazz (10-17) are headed to Denver to take on the Nuggets (20-7) at Ball Arena. This game kicks off the first night of a back-to-back, with the Jazz flying back to Salt Lake City tomorrow to take on the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Nuggets, once again contenders, are third in the Western Conference standings. While Nikola Jokic continues to play like a top-three player in the world, the story of the season for Denver has been Jamal Murray’s play. In his ninth season, the former Kentucky Wildcat
is averaging 24.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.7 assists–all career-highs. Known as a playoff riser, Murray has yet to make an All-Star team in his career, but is making a case for this year’s campaign to mark his first appearance.
The Nuggets continue to miss forward Aaron Gordon, who was ruled out indefinitely with a grade-two hamstring strain in November. In his 13 games this season, Gordon was averaging a career high 18.8 points per game, including a career-high 50-point game on opening night. New additions Cameron Johnson and Tim Hardaway Jr. have filled in well, averaging 11.5 and 12 points per game, respectively.
For the Jazz, tonight marks another opportunity to continue their impressive play. Despite the two game skid, Utah performed impressively in both their losses agains the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic. Keyonte George continues to prove that his leap this year is real, raising his season averages to 24.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 6.9 assists a game. Most importantly, George’s increase in production has come with an increase in efficiency, shooting 44.5% from the field and 90.6% from the line. Any conversation about the Most Improved Player Award should include George.
Lauri Markkanen remains questionable for tonight’s game with his groin injury:
How to Watch
When: 7:00 p.m.
Where: Ball Arena, Denver, Colorado
Channel: KJZZ, Jazz+
