The Utah Jazz remain on the road and face the struggling Detroit Pistons in the second game of a back-to-back on Thursday night. Both teams will be missing key contributors heading into the contest.
The Jazz will be without Keyonte George (foot), Jordan Clarkson (hamstring), Talen Horton-Tucker (foot), Lauri Markkanen (maintenance), and Omer Yurtseven (illness).
As for the Pistons, Jalen Duran (ankle) is out, while Killian Hayes (illness) is a game-time decision.
Despite Detroit currently on a 24-game losing streak, the Jazz are a 2.5-point underdog heading into the contest. Playing on a back-to-back and Markkanen popping up on the injury report are the major contributors to that.
The injuries continue to mount up for the Jazz this season. Horton-Tucker appeared to be fine after Wednesday's defeat to the Cleveland Cavaliers, but Utah continues to be cautious when it comes to injuries this season.
Horton-Tucker has been playing well since being inserted in the starting lineup. He may have had his best night of the year against Cleveland with a 19-point and 11-assist performance.
This could open up opportunities for second-year Jazzman Ochai Agbaji. Playing time has been a mixed bag as of late, but expect starter minutes against the Pistons.
Also, without Markkanen in the rotation, Jazz fans can expect to see Taylor Hendricks tonight. Hendricks has shown flashes this season, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Tonight will be an opportunity to get much-needed developmental reps.
The tip-off is at 5:00 p.m. MST.
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