NBA Playoffs 2017: 5 keys to Clippers vs. Jazz matchup
By Connor Learn
3. Shooting guard play will help determine this series
Utah’s defense keeps them in most games. When they lose, it is usually when they aren’t lighting it up from the offensive end. The Jazz managed to finish 12th in the league in offensive efficiency, but sometimes lack the punch they need to win close games. Gordon Hayward and Rudy Gobert are playing the best offensive basketball of their careers, but they have struggled offensively when George Hill hasn’t been at 100 percent.
Rodney Hood has the potential to swing this series in Utah’s favor. He broke out last year as a starter and averaged 14.5 points per game. Hood then averaged 17.4 points per game during the first 11 games of the season before going down with a knee injury shortly afterwards. He has been back for stretches of games since then but his scoring and level of play have not been the same. If Hood toughs out this series and gives the Jazz another punch on offense, it could be big for them.
J.J. Redick’s career is a testament to the hard work that he has put in. He is a consistent, steady starter; the Clippers know that he will give them around 15 points and shoot well. And given Utah’s stifling defense, especially near the rim, perimeter shooting will take on a heightened importance in this matchup. As a result, Redick’s scoring contributions will be of more crucial than it would be against most teams. He may need to contribute more against the Jazz than he would against most teams. The scoring output of both shooting guards is something to look for in this series.