Rockets Aim for Redemption Against Struggling Jazz in Salt Lake City

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Houston Rockets (47-26) are set to face the Utah Jazz (16-57) on Thursday night at the Delta Center, seeking to extend their three-game winning streak and maintain momentum in the Western Conference playoff race. Tipoff is scheduled for 9 p.m. EDT.

The Rockets, currently positioned second in the conference, are aiming to solidify their playoff positioning against a Jazz team that has faced considerable challenges this season. Utah has won just one game this month, suffering losses in nine of their last ten matchups.

In their last encounter, which took place in Salt Lake City, the Rockets struggled defensively, allowing 124 points to the Jazz, including 37 in the fourth quarter. Keyonte George, a bench player for Utah, notably scored 30 points. The Rockets only managed a combined shooting percentage of 51% from their top scorers Amen Thompson, Jeff Green, Alperen Sengun, and Jalen Green, with the rest of the team shooting a dismal 28%.

“Defensive performance has been our Achilles’ heel this season,” Rockets coach Stephen Silas said. “When we lock down, we can compete with anyone. We need to fix our defensive lapses to continue winning.”

As the Rockets enter the final stretch of the season with a challenging schedule, they recognize the need for an essential victory against the Jazz. Houston will only be favored in two of their remaining nine games, magnifying the importance of this matchup.

The Jazz’s offensive rebounds provide a threat despite their overall struggles. They rank sixth in the Western Conference for offensive boards with an average of 11.9 per game, led by Walker Kessler‘s impressive 4.6 per game. Kessler contributes significantly to their scoring with averages of 11.2 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.

In injury news, the Rockets will likely see Amen Thompson (ankle sprain) and Steven Adams (wrist) as game-time decisions. Reed Sheppard is confirmed out due to a thumb injury. Meanwhile, the Jazz are set to miss key players Lauri Markkanen (illness), John Collins (ankle), Jordan Clarkson (foot), and Taylor Hendricks (fibula).

The Rockets have proved formidable in games decided by ten points or more this season, boasting a record of 21-9 in such matchups. For Houston’s forward Dillon Brooks, consistency will be vital as he aims to improve on his 3.1 three-point field goals per game over the last ten contests.

Fans can follow the game through The Dream Shake’s official Playback stream for a more interactive viewing experience, with VIP passes available for attendees.

“We’re looking to keep the momentum and build confidence going into the final games of the season,” Rockets star Alperen Sengun stated. “Every game is crucial from here on out.”

Tonight’s showdown will not only test the Rockets’ resolve but also their ability to perform under pressure as they face a Jazz team desperately in need of a lift.