Four-Point Play: The Utah Jazz-Cleveland Cavaliers Heartbreaker

On Tuesday night, the Utah Jazz matched LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers blow for blow in front of a hostile crowd at Quicken Loans Arena. Despite their efforts and a fourth quarter lead, the King and his Cavs protected their court, dropping the Jazz 118-114.

So what do we take from this heartbreaking loss? Are there moral victories? What does this game mean for the remainder of the team’s Eastern Conference swing?

Here is today’s Four-Point Play, Jazz Cavs edition.

1) The Jazz never gave up against LBJ and crew. Although they lost the game, they hung in there–answering nearly every run made by the Cavs. It took a 17-point, fourth quarter outburst by James to put Utah’s fight to rest, and if Derrick Favors doesn’t miss that free throw, the Jazz may have survived the onslaught. That said, there are various areas of improvement for the Jazz.

2) Mo Williams and company blew up the Jazz defense. While it would be unrealistic to expect the Jazz to hold opponents to 85 points or less every night, Cleveland dropped 118. Jazz players should get dinged for this. Williams in particular shot like he was possessed by Stephen Curry.

During the current NBA season, Williams is the third point guard to dominate against the Jazz, with Steve Blake and Damian Lillard being the other two. While Lillard is an All-Star and one of the league’s best scorers, the Jazz have no excuse for letting the other two dominate them.

There have been stretches when Alec Burks switched onto these players, but couldn’t stop the bleeding. I wouldn’t say this is a one player or point guard defense issue. Most of these were mental mistakes (like repeatedly going under screens despite having Favors and the Stifle Tower protecting the lane). Players must be more disciplined in these situations.

Jazz coach Quin Snyder should also try to vary defensive schemes and, to borrow a football term, include occasional blitzing of the pick-and-roll to keep offenses guessing.

Mo Williams Shotchart vs Utah Jazz 10th Nov

3) Rudy Gobert could miss some games after turning his ankle against the Cavaliers. If he’s out of commission, who can Coach Snyder rely on to fill in?

Trey Lyles has been slow out of the gate, but Synder continues his effort to get him minutes and instill confidence in the young lad. Personally, I think it’s the right move long-term, but right now, he is hurting the Jazz whenever he is on the floor. Lyles might be better served sharing the court with either Gobert or Favors instead of Trevor Booker, as Lyles has miles to go in defense.

Gobert’s injury might provide a chance for Synder to test Jeff Withey. During his time in New Orleans, Withey did well in limited minutes. Easing him in with Favors might make it easier for him. In fact, he should start against Miami to counter their length (Atlanta and Orlando don’t have imposing front line length).

4) LeBron schooled Rodney Hood in the final seven minutes. Such situations have topped my wish list for Gordon Hayward. Whenever an opposing wing player or point guard is hot, Hayward should put up his hand and ask to guard that player. For him to become elite player, he should dominate on both ends of the floor.

With his physical tools, there is no reason why he cannot be a defensive stopper. We will never know if Hayward would have been successful in defending James, but hey… at least our best player would’ve tried.

Next: Utah Jazz Remains NBA's Best Defense

Up next for Jazz will be the red hot Miami Heat at South Beach. Miami is projected to be in Playoffs this season. It is to be noted that Jazz have yet to win against an opponent with a winning record this season. Stay tuned to Purple & Blues as the Jazz continue their road test.