Regular Season Game 41
Jazz (16-24) at Wizards (23-17)
January 10, 2018 at 7:00 PM Capital One Arena | Washington, D.C.
TV: NBCSW Radio: 1500 AM
Odds: WSH -4.5
What to Watch:
Donovan Mitchell Rookie of the Year Resume Building
The 13th overall pick in this year's draft is looking like more and more of a steal by the game. This season, he is averaging 18.5 points, 3.4 assists, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. He is right in the thick of a loaded rookie of the year vying class. He was the leading scorer in the last matchup with Washington with 21 points on 8 of 13 shooting in just 26 minutes.
Key Matchup:
House of Guards vs. Paint Allergy
Much has been made about John Wall and Bradley Beal combining to go 1 of 20 from the field in the fourth quarter over the past two games. To me, a lot of that is correctable by not settling for contested jump shots but be aggressive and attack the paint. With Rudy Gobert sidelined with a knee injury, the backcourt should have no excuse for not attempting to go to the rim on every possession without The Stifle Tower roaming affecting shots. "They whooped our tails." Wall said about the previous matchup with the Jazz on Tuesday. "That is probably one of the worst losses I've ever seen and had been part of a team."
X-Factor:
Otto Porter's Health
For already the second time this season, Porter is dealing with a hip injury that has spread to his back, which cost him Saturday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks. With a total of four days without a game and being able to get treatment, there is a good chance that Porter is able to return against Utah. If he cannot go, it will mean a starter will be on the floor at all times as Scott Brooks will likely not extend his rotation as was the case last game.
Shortly after publishing, Brooks told the media that Porter went through a full practice on Tuesday and will be ready to play on Wednesday night against the Jazz.
Fun Factor:
Rodney Hood Trade Scouting?
It is no secret that Washington could use an upgrade at backup shooting guard and Hood provides an interesting prospect because of his 6-foot-8 height that would allow him to play with John Wall and Bradley Beal at the same time. He is averaging a career-high 16.8 points per game along with a career-high 39.2 percent shooting from beyond the arc. With Tyreke Evans probably not available for just a second-round pick, Hood could be someone that Washington can snatch without giving up a first round pick.
Prediction:
Washington will take care of business and avenge their second worst loss, by deficit, against Utah.