Live Thread: Jazz @ Cavs

The Utah Jazz visit LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavs tonight in C-Town. The game is set for 7:00 PM and can be seen on Fox Sports Ohio or NBA League pass.

Utah has won their last two games and is 4-2 for the season. They have a strong defensive identity holding opponents to a lead leaguing average of 39% from the field for just 85 points a game. Rudy Gobert is their center piece averaging four blocks a game.

The Jazz will be starting Raul Neto (PG), Rodney Hood (SG), Gordan Hayward (SF), Derrick Favors (PF), and Gobert (C). The Cavs are starting Mo Williams, J.R. Smith (probable), LeBron James, Kevin Love, and Timofey Mozgov.

If the Cavs want to silence the Jazz tonight, there are a few things they need to think about.

1. David Blatt cannot let Rudy Gobert stop guys from driving. If the Cavs settle for jumpers and get cold early, the game could get out of control.

2. The Wine and Gold should consider playing small ball. If Gobert is going to protect the rim, let Kevin Love shoot threes and elbow jumpers.

3. The Jazz are last in the league for assists with just 16.5 a night. The Cavs should make sure it stays that way. If the Cavs can play honest defense, Gordan Hayward and Derrick Favors will have to beat them. I like that scenario.

I’m predicting the Cavs actually run away with this game. The Cavs have started three games in a row slowly. I don’t expect that trend to continue. The Cavs should also try to ratchet up their D and muffle any attempts by the Jazz to go on mini-runs. The Jazz defense may be one of the best, but you still have to outscore an opponent to beat them. I’m not sure the Jazz can do that against a top five offensive team that defends.