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Jazz vs. Clippers Prediction and Odds (Clippers Could Have Value if Paul George Makes Return)

By Donnavan Smoot

Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George.
Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George. / Thearon W. Henderson/GettyImages
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The Utah Jazz will travel to Los Angeles to take on the Los Angeles Clippers and try and break a long losing streak.

The big news in this game is that the Clippers might be getting Paul George back. George has been out since Christmas with an elbow injury. George would clearly be a big add for the Clippers who, like the Jazz, are on a four-game losing streak.

With the Jazz potentially falling down into the play-in, this game is crucial. Can the Clippers get the win at home?

Here are the odds for the matchup via WynnBET.

Jazz vs. Clippers Odds, Spread and Total

Spread: 

  • Jazz: -1 (-110)
  • Clippers: +1 (-110)

Moneyline:

  • Jazz: -120
  • Clippers: +100

Total:

  • 217 (Over: -110/Under: -110)

Jazz vs. Clippers Prediction and Pick

If the Clippers get Paul George back tonight, I'll side with them. I've been on record saying the Clippers are the most dangerous team in the Western Conference play-in tournament. They play hard, have a good defense and had George's return in their hand like pocket aces. Tonight, could be the first showing since Christmas of a Clippers team with a star and the Jazz should be worried.

The Jazz have lost four straight games and are 4-6 in their last 10. During their four-game losing streak, the Jazz have the second-worst defensive rating in the league (125.7). Even if Paul George doesn't play, this scares me when it comes to picking Utah tonight. The Clippers aren't the best offensive team in the league, but Utah's recent performance might make them look like juggernauts.

The Clippers are essentially locked into the No. 8 seed, but they still have a lot to play for. The playoffs are coming up and they need to be functioning at full strength when their stars come back.

If George doesn't play, I'll reluctantly take the Jazz because of the star power. Otherwise, Los Angeles is the play to make.

Lean: Clippers +1 if Paul George Plays; Utah -1 if Paul George Sits

You can find Donnavan Smoot’s full betting record here.

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