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Utah Jazz vs Oklahoma City Thunder Preview – December 3

The Utah Jazz visit the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Paycom Center on December 3 for an NBA Cup clash. The Jazz are winless in Group B play and aim to break a four-game losing streak, while the Thunder seek a victory to keep their tournament hopes alive. Oklahoma City needs a win and help from other games to advance to the knockout round.

Oklahoma City is coming off a 119-116 loss to the Houston Rockets, which snapped a three-game winning streak. Despite the defeat, head coach Mark Daigneault was encouraged by his team’s performance during the road trip. For Utah, Sunday’s narrow 105-104 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers highlighted the team’s struggles, with the Jazz losing eight of their last nine games.

This is the first meeting between the two teams this season. Oklahoma City won three of their four matchups last year, including their most recent clash in March 2024.

Utah Jazz

Utah continues to focus on developing its young roster. Second-year point guard Keyonte George is leading the team with 5.7 assists per game but has struggled with turnovers, recording at least five in four of his last five games. His progress remains a key focus for head coach Will Hardy.

Lauri Markkanen continues to pace the Jazz offensively, averaging 19.6 points per game. His consistent scoring will be critical against Oklahoma City’s league-best defense. John Collins and Walker Kessler have also provided support inside, with Kessler contributing on both ends with rebounds and shot-blocking.

Sunday’s loss to the Lakers showed flashes of potential, as the Jazz played a competitive game despite late mistakes. With the team prioritizing growth, Utah will look for continued improvement in Tuesday’s game.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder remain one of the league’s top teams, led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The seventh-year guard ranks third in the NBA in scoring at 30 points per game and has been a model of consistency, scoring at least 28 points in 10 straight games. His leadership will be crucial as Oklahoma City pushes for an NBA Cup knockout spot.

Rookie Jalen Williams continues to be a strong contributor, providing scoring and playmaking. Isaiah Hartenstein anchors the interior with his rebounding and defensive presence, coming off a double-double performance against Houston.

Oklahoma City’s ability to control the pace and play disciplined basketball will be key in this matchup. The team boasts a +18 point differential in Group B play, positioning itself well for tiebreaker scenarios if needed.

Pick and Prediction

Oklahoma City enters this matchup as a heavy favorite and has the tools to control the game on both ends of the court. Utah’s focus on development makes it a challenging matchup against one of the league’s top teams.

Expect Oklahoma City to take control early and secure a comfortable win at home.

  • Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 114, Utah Jazz 96

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