Wizards vs. Jazz preview: Washington faces tough challenge on the road in Utah

Game Info

When: Friday, March 31 at 9:00 pm EST
Where: Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah
TV: CSN Mid-Atlantic
Radio: 1500 AM and Wizards Radio App

Injury Report

Wizards: None

Jazz: Derrick Favors (Out: Knee), George Hill (Questionable: Groin), Raul Neto (Questionable: Groin)

What to watch for

Can Washington play their style in Utah?

When these teams last played back in February, the Jazz made sure the game was played on their terms. They grabbed 22 more rebounds than Washington, they held the Wizards to 11 fast break points, and Gordon Hayward dominated in crunch time. If Washington has any chance in this one, they’ll need to flip the script in their favor.

It should be a little easier this time around because they won’t have to deal with Derrick Favors, and they may not have to deal with George Hill. Still, Rudy Gobert will be a serious problem for them in the paint. In the first meeting, he had 15 points (despite only attempting 4 shots), 19 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 3 assists.

This might be a game where the Wizards need to play more small ball to try to get Gobert out of the paint and force Quin Snyder to explore different lineup options to counter Washington’s attack.

Most Likely Wizards Killer: Shelvin Mack

Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

Mack has had some strong games against his former team and the Wizards’ bench defense is always a question mark. Go ahead and pencil him in for at least a dozen.