Utah Jazz showed they can become an elite team in the Western Conference despite losing the season opener against Portland Trail Blazers. Shooting guard Joe Johnson exhibited his scoring skills will be a determining factor for the Jazz this season.
In the season opener against the Trail Blazers Johnson led the scorer with 29 points in 30 minutes. His ability to score is still as good as it was according to Salt Lake Tribune. Johnson showed his unique capability to score a lot of points in little time during the game against Jazz despite losing 104-113.
Utah Jazz were playing without their main point guard Gordon Hayward who fractured his finger during practice session inearly October. The Jazz were also without their starting shooting guard Alec Burks and center-power forward Derrick Favors who were also injured. Burks suffered ankle and knee injury while Favors had a knee injury.
In the game which was held in Portland’s home stadium Moda Center, point guard Damian Lillard scored 39 points to lead the Trail Blazers overcoming the Jazz as reported by Oregon Live. Shooting guard CJ McCollum also provide his best opening performance with 25 points.
Despite their losses, Jazz looked promising as a solid team that will become an elite team in the Western Conference this season. George Hill who played the starting point guard contributed 19 points and 3 assists, while shooting guard Rodney Hood made 26 points.
As the NBA evolves into the shooting league, Utah Jazz have brought in some excellent marksman in Joe Johnson and George Hill into the roster this season. Prior to their arrival, the Jazz already possesed excellent shoother in Hood and Hayward. While for the front court business they rely on the Rudy Gobert and Favors.
Watch the highlight of the Jazz season opener against Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center, Portland below: