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Game 2 - The power of efficiency

Game 2 - The power of efficiency

Aaaaand Game 2 is in the books…

And the outcome is the same, a loss. Although we can spin it in a number of different ways (and we will, surely), a loss is a loss, so you have to take it for what it is, move on and if possible, learn from it.

After a complete breakdown in game one, the Jazz were much more aggressive in Game 2, hoisting up 102 shots total and playing up tempo basketball that has worked for the team in the past. The team managed to close the gap on the rebounding differential, something that hurt the team previously, but shot poorly, converting only 43% and 23% on threes against a 50% and 33% respectively for the Thunder.

Jonas Valanciunas has been the player of the series and the Jazz doesn’t seem to have an answer for him as he is averaging monster numbers. His output, or the Jazz inability to stop him, might determine the fate of the team in these playoffs.

The most criticized player by the media has been the rookie Willie Cauley-Stein, because Jonas Valanciunas has been feasting on his matchup all night long and the rookie has had no answer for him. This is especially hurtful for Willie as he is long known for his defense-first skill set and is being embarrassed by a much more seasoned veteran.

Sophomore star Andrew Wiggins has been criticized, by the media and the fans, for missing 2 shots in crunch time, two plays that would’ve swung the momentum of the game in the thick of things. WCS, who managed to grab both of Wiggins’ misses and measuring 7-1 being 2 feet from the basket also couldn’t convert, if he had, this could’ve been a different story.

The Utah Jazz now head back home to play a crucial Game 3 in front of their crowd on Monday.

“The playoffs is where history is made and you need balls to play here. Right now they’re beating us and we’re letting them. I hate losing.” said Faried after Game 2.

Has the inexperience of this squad finally caught up to them? Have one of their strengths become their major weakness?

The answer to this and much more other questions will be revealed soon. Game 3 is near and something’s gotta give.

Karina Alexandre – Jazz Insider