Golden State Warriors vs. Utah Jazz – As the NBA season advances, fans and bettors alike are taking notice of the matchup between the Golden State Warriors (25-25) and Utah Jazz (26-27). Both teams have shown impressive grit and skill throughout this year, making this matchup key in terms of their playoff hopes. Key players like Stephen Curry for the Warriors and Lauri Markkanen for the Jazz will likely play key roles; therefore it should not be missed by anyone interested in NBA free picks today.
Golden State Warriors vs. Utah Jazz
Date & Time: Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET
Location: Delta Center
TV: KJZZ
Golden State Warriors vs. Utah Jazz Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Warriors | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Jazz | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Golden State Warriors Analysis
The Warriors have a 25-25 record and an efficient offense that averages 119 points per game, making 43.3 field goals and 39.5 three-point attempts per game. They have the fifth-best shooting percentage in the league at 47.4%. They set screens and pass the ball well, averaging nearly 29 assists per game. Their assist to turnover ratio of 1.6 ranks 10th in the league, highlighting their ball security.
However, Golden State struggles with rebounding and defense. They grab just 46.7 boards per game and only 34.3 defensive rebounds. This places them near the middle of the pack in those categories. They often concede second chance points due to their lack of size. The Warriors allow 113.3 points per game and foul 20.7 times per game, both ranking in the bottom half of the NBA. They have trouble keeping teams out of the paint and force just 13.9 turnovers per contest.
Stephen Curry leads the way with 28.1 points per game and makes 33.4% of his three-point shots, despite the difficult attempts he takes. He also averages 4.8 assists per contest while managing a low 3 turnovers per game, indicating his effectiveness as both a scorer and playmaker.
Utah Jazz Analysis
The Jazz average 117.8 points and make 42.7 field goals each game. They make just 13.2 threes and have a below average three-point percentage of 35.8%. They excel in the paint with quality post-ups and use their size advantage to draw fouls and get to the line regularly. However, they struggle with ball movement, managing just 28.4 assists and 1.5 assist to turnover ratio per game.
Utah ranks 15th in defensive rating, conceding 113.5 points. They give up too many easy looks around the rim, allowing 46 points in the paint per game. They also foul often, 19.2 times per contest, which puts opponents at the free-throw line. While they crash the defensive glass well with 34 boards per game, they fail to generate many turnovers, forcing just 11 per game.
Lauri Markkanen does it all for Utah, with 23.7 points and 8.5 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently. He spreads the floor as a big man, taking 5 three-point attempts and making 40% of them. He draws fouls consistently with 7.2 free-throw attempts and provides scoring punch from all areas of the floor for this Jazz team.
Golden State Warriors vs. Utah Jazz Against the Spread
The Warriors have found success against the spread recently, covering in 4 of their last 5 matchups. They also boast an impressive 15-8 record against the spread in away games this season. This indicates they play well on the road and can keep games close. However, Golden State has gone over the projected point total in just 1 of their last 5 contests. With Curry leading the league in scoring, this talented offense is due to erupt.
Comparatively, the Jazz have struggled against the spread at home, with a 13-16 record. They have failed to cover in 3 of their previous 5 games as well. However, totals have gone over in 14 of Utah’s 24 home games this year, showcasing their offensive firepower on their home court.
Golden State Warriors vs. Utah Jazz Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Golden State Warriors (The Warriors are lethal from three-point range which matches up well with Utah’s three-point defense struggles.)
Spread: Golden State Warriors (Given their strong performance against the spread, especially on the road, the Warriors are poised to cover.)
Total: Over (Both teams have potent offenses capable of pushing the total over, combined with some defensive vulnerabilities.)
Predicted Score: Golden State Warriors 120, Utah Jazz 115
The most reliable pick appears to be the Golden State Warriors to cover the spread. Their recent form, combined with Stephen Curry’s leadership and scoring ability, gives them a slight edge over the Jazz. As sports betting in Canada and elsewhere continues to grow, this matchup presents an exciting opportunity for bettors looking for action in the NBA.
