Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images Can Lauri Markkanen and the Utah Jazz Reach Double-Digit Wins Tonight Against Mikal Bridges and the Brooklyn Nets? The struggling and short-handed Utah Jazz (9-17) are facing off against the Brooklyn Nets (13-12) tonight in Salt Lake City. Last season, the Jazz were competitive every night, making what felt like every game a nail-biter. The team played hard, made 3’s, and adjusted to their opponent; they had a competitive fire last season. This season, that fire is flickering. Last game, the Jazz were blown out by the Kings, giving up several open looks to Keagan Murray who lit the Jazz up with 12 3-pointers. Utah has been better when they play at home (7-5 in SLC) and the Nets are at the end of an unsuccessful road trip, so a Jazz win is more likely than the standings suggest. Keep in the mind, the Nets are without Simmons, and Walker IV, Smith Jr. Dorian Finny-Smith is questionable for tonight. 
Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images The match-up of shooting guards who are on fire as of late, Collin Sexton and Cam Thomas is something to watch for tonight. Also, it will be interesting to see if the Nets lengthy wings and agile defensive anchor, Nic Claxton, will stifle Lauri Markkanen’s offensive efficiency. Interestingly enough, the Nets have a better offense (PTS/G 10th) than defense (Opp PTS/G 18th) this year. Former Jazz starter, Royce O’Neale, will be back in the building tonight, he will likely be met with a round of applause by the Utah fans. 
Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images Game Info When: Thursday, December 18th, 7:00 PM MT Where: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, Utah TV/Streaming: Jazz+, KJZZ Radio: KSL 1160 AM & 102.7 FM Injury Report Jazz Injury Report:*OUT - Omer Yurtseven (illness)
*AVAILABLE - Luka Samanic (illness)
QUESTIONABLE - John Collins (illness)
OUT - Jordan Clarkson (right hamstring strain)
OUT - Keyonte George (left foot inflammation)
OUT - Johnny Juzang (G League)
OUT - Brice… pic.twitter.com/p898DrLmP0— Utah Jazz (@utahjazz) December 18, 2023
Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images Source: https://www.slcdunk.com/2023/12/18/2400 ... al-bridges