Jazz Biggest Winners & Losers From Opening Night vs. Kings

The Utah Jazz win some, and lose some.

The Sacramento Kings defeated the Utah Jazz 130-114 on opening night. Sacramento's victory snapped Utah's six-year opening-day victory streak. 

Fans expected a crisp debut as the Jazz returned the bulk of their roster from last season. However, after the official team player introduction, the Jazz seemed discombobulated and sloppy throughout the contest. 

Three Jazzmen scored double-figures, led by Jordan Clarkson's 24 points, six assists, and four rebounds. Lauri Markkanen tossed 19 points and grabbed 10 boards, while John Collins contributed a solid Jazz debut with 15 points and 11 rebounds. 

Although these stats are reliable, all Jazz starters registered negative game ratings. The top five Jazz reserves failed to lend a helping hand and reported negative game ratings as well.

Sacramento found success early and was often led by the "King" Harrison Barnes, who tossed in 33 points. The Kings also received notable performances from Domantas Sabonis' 22 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, while De'Aaron Fox scored 18 points, handed out six assists, and snagged five rebounds. 

All of the Kings starters and top reserves registered positive game ratings, led by Fox at +14. Let's dissect the winners and losers from last night's game.

Winner | John Collins

Collins's debut can be considered successful. Double-double stat lines are always welcome, but Collins has a great attitude with his new teammates and seems optimistic. 

During the preseason, when Collins was not in uniform, he cheered on his mates, gave high fives, and advised the younger players. The Jazz may have landed a gem due to his freakish athletic ability and positive attitude.

Winner | Kris Dunn

Although Dunn's numbers didn't jump off the stat sheet, it is becoming obvious he is easily the best point guard on the Jazz roster. Most NBA players have particular strengths and weaknesses that will be exploited. Last night, we saw a weakness with the Jazz in providing a steady game flow, which is a strength of Dunn.

Dunn is a natural point guard who can provide his team with a steady game flow and will increase the stock of the Markkanen. Hopefully, the Jazz will review the film and conclude a change at point guard is imminent, and Dunn is the guy.

Loser | Jordan Clarkson

Clarkson provided a solid stat line, but his style of play is disruptive in team play. Sure, he can score, but his skill set does not warrant a starter's resume, and he would make the Jazz a stronger team as a reserve. 

Clarkson has won a Sixth Man of the Year Award, and coming off the bench is nothing to be ashamed of. Sometimes, the player has to sacrifice for the team, and maybe Clarkson should consult with Hardy. As for now, Clarkson's game as a starter is hurting the Jazz.

Loser | Coach Will Hardy

The Jazz were shaky from the beginning of the contest against the Kings. A notable issue is the number of ball-dominant players on the Jazz roster, particularly in the starting line-up. 

Clarkson and Talen Horton-Tucker need the ball in their hands to contribute and do not play well when it is out of their hands. The team's best player, Markkanen, will provide modest production playing alongside ball dominance. 

These issues, in my opinion, are in the hands of the coach. The chemistry was off, and these patterns should be detected in practice. Moving forward, we will monitor the adjustments with the Jazz, but a change appears inevitable.

The Jazz will battle the Los Angeles Clippers at Delta Center on Friday night at 7:30 MDT.

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