Utah's young group has kept finding offense through George even with a shortened frontcourt. Portland brings more established handlers and a strong inside presence through Avdija and Clingan. This game turns on the possessions after each side's first run, especially the defensive rebound and the next clean shot.
George, Collier, Peterson, Bailey and Sensabaugh supplied Utah's comeback against Memphis, and the Jazz pushed San Antonio through regulation without Markkanen. Jackson and Nurkic also missed that last game. Portland now has to distribute Morant's creation after his hamstring injury; Sharpe remains out, while Williams missed the Memphis game after playing against the Lakers.
Portland can work the paint and make a run, and Utah has already shown a way to re-enter through several young scorers. The Jazz have had more time since their last game and stay on their home floor. That's why I'm siding with Utah to stay within striking distance through the finish.
