Preview: Thunder vs. Jazz
In a highly anticipated Western Conference clash, the Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face off against the Utah Jazz this Thursday, January 18, at 9:00 p.m. ET. The Thunder, currently positioned as 3.5-point favorites by BetMGM, aim to bounce back from their recent two-game skid.
While Oklahoma City seeks redemption, the Jazz are riding a wave of momentum, eyeing their seventh straight victory. With the Thunder holding a strong 27-13 record, good for second in the conference, and the Jazz seeking to maintain their dominance at the Delta Center with nine consecutive home wins, the stage is set for an electrifying encounter.
Recent Performances
The Jazz are coming off an impressive 132-105 win over the Indiana Pacers, while the Thunder look to recover from a 128-117 setback against the LA Clippers. Despite their recent losses, including one to the Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City remains just two games behind the Minnesota Timberwolves in the standings. On the other hand, the Jazz's last scheduled game against the Warriors was postponed due to the unfortunate passing of Dejan Milojević, granting them an additional two days of rest before their matchup against the Thunder.
Oklahoma City enters the game with no reported injuries and a day of rest, although they are playing their third game in four nights. The Jazz, conversely, had five players sidelined during their last outing but will benefit from the extra rest advantage in the upcoming game.
Head-to-Head and Betting Insights
The Thunder have enjoyed recent success against the Jazz, having won their last four meetings, including a 134-120 victory earlier this season. When it comes to betting statistics, Oklahoma City has covered the spread in 66.7% of their games overall. However, their performance dips slightly on the road, where they cover 55.6% of the time. The team has also struggled recently in away games, losing four out of their last six.
Despite these challenges, the Thunder have been effective against the spread as road favorites, covering 69.6% of the time after a day’s rest. Conversely, the Jazz have only dropped three of their last 15 games and have been reliable against the spread, covering 61% of the time. Notably, Utah boasts the league's best home game ATS record (16-4-0) and an impressive 76.9% coverage rate as home underdogs. After a rest period of 2-3 days, they are 4-2 against the spread.
Key Players to Watch
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout performer for the Thunder, averaging 31.0 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. Josh Giddey contributes 11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, while Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren add significant depth with averages of 18.6 and 17.4 points per game, respectively.
For the Jazz, Lauri Markkanen is having a strong season with an average of 24 points per game. Collin Sexton delivered an impressive performance against the Pacers, scoring 30 points with five assists, and Jordan Clarkson continues to be a key player, averaging 17.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.
Game Expectations
Fatigue was cited as a factor in the Thunder’s loss to the Clippers, but they hope to overcome that hurdle in their upcoming game. Meanwhile, expectations are high for the Jazz to extend their home winning streak to ten games. Both teams have much at stake, with Oklahoma City looking to regain its footing after recent stumbles and Utah aiming to solidify its standing with a home-court triumph.
Betting odds reflect the close nature of this contest, with the Jazz listed at +3.5 (-110 with BetMGM). As both squads prepare to take the court, fans can anticipate a competitive battle between two determined Western Conference contenders.