Thunder 130, Jazz 103: Four Key Takeaways
Aaron Wiggins scored a career-high 27 points, while Jalen Williams chipped in 20 as the Oklahoma City Thunder handed the Utah Jazz their worst defeat of the year. In Utah's 130-103 loss, Lauri Markkanen led the team with 20 points in a losing effort.
Depth has been a problem since the Jazz sacrificed four rotational pieces for Russell Westbrook, who eventually was released. But against the Thunder, there was enough blame to go around as the Jazz turned the ball over 25 times, led by starters Markkanen and Talen Horton-Tucker with six each.
The Jazz never had a chance, with the Thunder taking 104 shots on the night compared to Utah’s 79.
What did we learn in the blowout in Oklahoma City? Let’s break it down.
Has the Tank Been Put into Motion?
Utah has now suffered arguably their two worst defeats of the season in back-to-back games. Allowing the San Antonio Spurs to break their 16-game losing streak in Salt Lake City, followed by a 27-point defeat versus a team missing its best player, doesn’t look good on paper, to say the least.
This begs the question: Is the tank on? It depends on the status of Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton.
The losses will stack up if Utah’s second and third-leading scorers remain on the shelf. Jazz fans in the anti-tank crowd should be looking at the injury reports moving forward.
Fontecchio Plays Best Game of the Year
Despite the Jazz beat down, first-year player Simone Fontecchio was a bright spot for the Jazz. He knocked down four three-pointers in six tries on his way to 16 points.
There'll be more opportunities in the future considering the state of Utah’s bench. We’ll see if Friday night’s performance can jumpstart Fontecchio into salvaging what’s been a disappointing season.
Horton-Tucker Inconsistent as a Starter
Horton-Tucker has had some highs and lows since being inserted in the starting lineup since Sexton’s injury. Against the Thunder, 'THT’ struggled to take care of the ball and was indecisive in Utah’s half-court sets.
In the fourth-year pro’s defense, playing point guard just isn’t his natural fit. That being said, the ceiling is still high, and Horton-Tucker should get as many minutes as possible, considering he’ll most likely exercise his player option with Utah this summer.
Kris Dunn’s 10-Day Contract Expiring
It's decision time for the Jazz brain trust in regard to Dunn’s future, but it should be an easy one if the anti-tank crowd is calling the shots. Dunn scored double-figures in all four contests while providing solid defense for a team that struggles in that department.
With Sexton’s status still in limbo, the Jazz were smart and re-signed Dunn to yet another 10-day contract.
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