Revamping the Los Angeles Lakers versus Utah Jazz match ups have always been big-time showdowns in the NBA world, much star power, ample competition, and memorable performances on the floor. Regardless of whether it is a regular-season game or a playoff point in their respective seasons, analyzing player statistics always offers fans more context in which to better comprehend how each team played after a game like the last one
In the article, we will break down the key player statistics from a recent game with the Lakers versus the Jazz and highlight major performances, element/s of the games that were affected by statistics, and what these statistics mean for each franchise.
Table of Contents
Game Context: Lakers vs. Jazz
Before we identify individual player statistics, we must first set the context of the last game played between the teams. The Lakers and Jazz also have a long history in the rivalry with both teams having the offensive and defensive talent to meet on the floor. The Jazz’s league-leading three-point shooting and physical style create a greater challenge for the Lakers, whose identity is based on star players.
In the last game these two teams played against each other, I felt that both teams were relatively equal in most aspects of the game and the game represented what all fans want from an NBA style of competition. Along with the final score and key moments of the game, I think it is important and worth looking closer at the statistical storylines following this game
Los Angeles Lakers Player Stats
1. LeBron James – The King Doing His Thing
- Points: 32
- Rebounds: 8
- Assists: 9
- Steals: 2
- Field Goal %: 52%
- Three Point %: 38%
LeBron James did it again, showing us why he is one of the greatest of all time, leading the Lakers in scoring and dishing out 9 assists while being able to grab two W’s and not fouling out of the game. LeBron consistently controlled the speed of the game, being able to make the right play at the right time and make the big shot when needed to keep the Lakers close!
Utah Jazz Player Stats
1. Lauri Markkanen – The Finnish Star shines
- Points: 30
- Rebounds: 10
- 3 Point Field Goals Made: 5
- 3 Point %: 45%
Markkanen couldn’t be stopped, he was stretching the floor by hitting his shots while also getting to the rim.
2. Collin Sexton – Aggressive attack
- Points: 22
- Assists: 6
- Free Throws Made: 8
Sexton was attacking the rim relentlessly and picking up fouls which was a big part of the Jazz offense.
3. John Collins – Good 2 way play
- Points: 16
- Rebounds: 9
- Blocks: 2
Collins was providing interior defense and rebounding and made it difficult for AD at times.
4. Jordan Clarkson – Offense in a hurry
Points: 18
Assists: 4
3 Point Field Goals Made: 3
Clarkson’s offensive scoring off the bench was big in keeping Utah within striking distance.
5. Walker Kessler – Defensive stalwart
- Points: 8
- Rebounds: 11
- Blocks: 4
Kessler’s rim protection was key to altering the Lakers’ drives and overall length and defensive instincts are elite.
2. Anthony Davis – Playing Offense & Dominating Defense
- Points: 28
- Rebounds: 12
- Blocks: 3
- Field Goal %: 56%
Anthony Davis was absolutely spectacular on the defensive end, alteration shots and grabbing a number of key rebounds. He impressed with his mid-range game and lay-up scoring in the paint, and built his game off the ability to lend an attack or score availability continually.
3. D’Angelo Russell – Added Vital Play Making & Scoring
- Points: 18
- Assists: 7
- Three’s Made: 4
- Three Point %: 42%
D’Angelo Russell helped provide a bit of the perimeter shooting and play making this roster had been looking for. His play making and ability to make shots on the perimeter help spread the floor for both LeBron and AD.
4. Austin Reaves – Sparkplug Off the Bench
- Points: 14
- Assists: 5
- Free Throw %: 90%
The energy and clutch plays with Austin Reaves off the bench were extremely instrumental and provided a necessary spark, especially with closing minutes of the game.
5. Rui Hachimura – High Efficiency Scoring
- Points: 12
- Rebounds: 6
- Field Goal %: 60%
Rui Hachumira played with high efficiency shooting from mid-range, while providing limited scoring from the second unit from the Jazz.
Key Takeaways from the Stats
1. Star Power of the Lakers
LeBron and AD had 60 total points and prove that when healthy, they’re virtually impossible to stop.
Bench players like Reaves and Hachimura gave assistance when needed.
2. Jazz’s Three-Point Shooting Kept Them Alive
Utah made 15 threes at a 38% clip with Markkanen leading the charge.
Even with solid long-range shots, it was tough to keep up when LeBron brought his playmaking.
3. Battle in the Paint
Lakers grabbed 48 rebounds to 42 from the Jazz with AD and Hachimura eating rebounds up.Kessler was impressive with his shot-blocking, but the Lakers adjusted by getting him out to the perimeter to make shots off pick-and-pops.
4. Turnovers & Easy Fast Break Points
The Jazz had 14 turnovers, leading to 18 fast-break points for the Lakers.
LA’s transition game led by LeBron was the reason they were able to score in chunks.
What is Next for Both Teams?
Lakers Outlook
If they can keep this level of play between LeBron and AD, they can continue to contend for the playoffs.Staying healthy will be important, and keeping them fresh will be key.
Jazz Outlook
- More of a redevelopment situation with the Jazz, but Markkanen and Kessler both look like they can be franchise change players.
- If they can get some level of consistency from their guards (Sexton, Clarkson), they can put themselves in position of being a play-in threat.
Final Thoughts
The Lakers vs. Jazz game was an exciting showcase of not only individual talent but also teamwork. The Lakers’ duo was outstanding, but the Jazz played well and showed shooting ability and promise with their young players.
Specific player stats are important to fans because they indicate which players performed well, which struggled, and what to look for in the coming games. Not a Lakers or Jazz fan? Still a memorable game an an event to enjoy.
