LA Clippers (30-23) at Utah (13-40)
- When: Feb 13 2025, 9:00 PM
- Where: Delta Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- TV: NBALP
Game Preview
LA Clippers (-9.5) at Utah Jazz | Total: 224.5
The Utah Jazz are looking to capitalize on a much-needed bounce-back win, while the LA Clippers aim to continue their recent success in the final game before the All-Star break. Both teams are on the second night of a back-to-back, making fatigue a key factor in this contest.
Utah Jazz: Can They Keep Up the Momentum?
The Jazz snapped a three-game losing streak in dominant fashion on Wednesday, securing a 131-119 win over the Lakers. Lauri Markkanen led the charge with 32 points, proving he’s still the focal point of this Utah offense.
Key Factors for Utah:
The Jazz shot an impressive 52.3% from the field against LA, emphasizing their ability to move the ball effectively.
Jordan Clarkson (21 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists) and Walker Kessler (16 points, 8 rebounds, 6 blocks) provided strong secondary contributions, and Kessler’s rim protection will be vital against the Clippers’ interior scorers.
Despite their win, Utah is just 13-17 at home this season and struggles to maintain consistency.
The Jazz are 2-5 ATS in their last seven games as an underdog.
The biggest challenge for Utah will be sustaining their offensive efficiency against one of the league’s top defensive teams. Given their lack of consecutive wins this season, it’s fair to question if they can deliver another strong performance.
LA Clippers: Too Much Firepower?
The Clippers are in better rhythm, picking up a 128-114 win over Memphis on Wednesday, marking their second straight victory. They’ve been on a rollercoaster lately, winning two in a row after a three-game slide.
Key Factors for LA:
Ivica Zubac dominated Utah in their last matchup, dropping 26 points on 13-of-16 shooting while grabbing 15 rebounds. If he gets the same looks inside, expect another big performance.
New acquisition Bogdan Bogdanovic made his Clippers debut, finishing with 7 points on 3-of-4 shooting in 18 minutes. His role will likely expand as he gets more comfortable.
LA’s defense is significantly better than the Lakers’ unit that Utah just torched. Expect Paul George and Kawhi Leonard to pressure Markkanen early and often.
The Clippers are 9-4 ATS in their last 13 road games and have already beaten Utah by 20 this season.
With both teams on a back-to-back, depth will be critical. The Clippers have more firepower and defensive versatility, which could make the difference in this matchup.
Betting Predictions
Spread Pick: Clippers -9.5 – The Clippers controlled the previous matchup, and Utah’s inconsistency makes them hard to trust. LA has the defensive tools to slow down Utah’s scorers.
Total Pick: Over 224.5 – Utah has been efficient offensively, and the Clippers have scored 128+ points in back-to-back games. Fatigue could lead to defensive lapses on both ends.
Player Prop to Watch: Ivica Zubac Over 12.5 Rebounds → He crushed Utah in the last game and should see plenty of minutes with LA’s preference for size against Markkanen and Kessler.
Final Thoughts
Utah’s blowout win over the Lakers was impressive, but they haven’t strung together consecutive wins all season. Meanwhile, the Clippers are finding their groove again, and their deeper rotation and defensive intensity give them the edge in this one. Expect LA to take control early and cover the spread.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
