Jazz plus 7 1/2 at Wizards
There’s a certain randomness factor here since both teams last played during the weekend. Randomness is good when backing an underdog, especially one in the mid-size points range.
Utah has really been struggling losing 13 of its last 16. A combination of injuries and a road-heavy December schedule are big reasons why its record has been so bad. But with two full days off, the Jazz were able to get in a couple of much needed practices as they continue to adjust to the absence of center Rudy Gobert.
There is evidence this will help. The Jazz are 6-4 when playing with two or more days rest, including covering four of the last five times in this situation. This compares favorably when you consider they are 5-15 when having one day of rest.
There also are clear indications that the Wizards play down to the level of their competition. Washington is 23-17, yet just 9-10 versus below .500 opponents. The Wizards are 3-8 ATS the past 11 times they’ve gone against sub .500 foes and 3-8 ATS the last 11 times they’ve been favored.
The Jazz have had the Wizards’ number, too, winning and covering the last four in the series. The teams met early last month and the Jazz absolutely destroyed the Wizards, 116-69. That was Utah’s most impressive game of the season.
