The Oklahoma City Thunder and Utah Jazz are set to face off at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 8:30 PM ET. This matchup features two teams with different trajectories this season, making it an intriguing game to watch.
Oklahoma City Thunder
- 2024 Record: 44-10, 1st in Western Conference
- Key Players: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (G), Jalen Williams (G), Josh Giddey (G), Chet Holmgren (F/C), Isaiah Joe (G)
- Strengths: The Thunder have a top-five offense, averaging 117.8 points per game, which ranks fifth in the NBA. They have been strong defensively, allowing only 104.9 points per game, which ranks first in the NBA.
- Challenges: The Thunder have had some struggles with rebounding, averaging 44.6 rebounds per game, which ranks 14th in the NBA. They have also had issues with consistency, particularly on the road.
- Key Departures: None significant
- Key Signings: None significant
Utah Jazz
- 2024 Record: 13-41, 15th in Western Conference
- Key Players: Walker Kessler (F/C), Jordan Clarkson (G), Collin Sexton (G), Keldon Johnson (F), Jaden Springer (G)
- Strengths: The Jazz have shown flashes of potential with Kessler and Clarkson leading the scoring. They have a solid power play, converting at a 21.6% rate.
- Challenges: The Jazz have struggled defensively and have had difficulty maintaining leads. They are currently on a seven-game losing streak.
- Key Departures: None significant
- Key Signings: Jaden Springer (recently signed to a 10-day contract)
Match Details
- Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
- Time: 8:30 PM ET
- Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, Utah
- Broadcast: ESPN, KJZZ
Team News and Lineups
- Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder will be without Alex Caruso due to injury, with Isaiah Joe expected to step up in his absence. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will start in goal.
- Utah Jazz: The Jazz will be without Nikola Topic and Taylor Hendricks for the season. Walker Kessler will start in goal.
Key Matchups
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Utah Jazz Defense: Gilgeous-Alexander’s offensive prowess will be a major threat to the Jazz’s defense.
- Utah Jazz’s Offense vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Defense: The Jazz’s balanced attack will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Thunder’s defense.
