Utah has found scoring through George even while its frontcourt has been depleted. Portland can create through Avdija and its guards, with Clingan extending possessions on the glass. Their recent games show that a level first half can break open when outside answers and defensive rebounds disappear.
George can start the attack, while Collier and Sensabaugh give Utah other late decisions. Portland's Avdija, Lillard and Holiday can answer from outside or off drives, and Clingan tests Bamba and Hayes after a missed shot.
Jackson and Nurkic remain out for Utah; Markkanen missed the last game and is questionable. Utah reached the end of regulation level in that game. Morant played in Portland's last game but is now officially out, while Williams is questionable after missing it.
Utah has had more rest at home, and its George-led group has already shown it can keep pace without the injured forwards. Portland's latest tied half became a loss when its outside reply and rebounding failed. That's why I'm siding with Utah to keep this close.
