The Utah Jazz lost to the Phoenix Suns 118-96 in a game that the Phoenix Suns were in control from the start.

The Jazz offense was the thing that struggled the most in this one, as they shot just 37.5% from the field and 32.4% from three. Lauri Markkanen had a great game with 33 points on 10/20 shooting from the field, but didn’t really contribute much in other areas with just 4 rebounds and a block. The Jazz’s offense might be getting figured out early on in the season. Their primary action on every play that Markkanen is on the floor is a variety of off-ball screens to get Markkanen into movement towards the basket or to an open three, and it’s working. The problem is that the team is struggling when that first action doesn’t work. But huge credit to Markkanen, who, despite getting a defensive focus from the Suns tonight, still managed a super efficient game.

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Keyonte George is blossoming into the clear secondary option for this team, but he’s not quite there yet with his shooting efficiency. That said, his playmaking is becoming special. He had 9 assists tonight with 3 turnovers which is very solid production for the young guard. He’s also showing an impressive, consistent ability to get to the free-throw line. George took 11 free throws tonight and knocked down 9. So even on nights like tonight, where his shot from two wasn’t falling, he’s still putting up efficient numbers with his free throw attempts. George also had a near triple-double in this one with his line of 17 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds. He’s becoming that all-around point guard the Jazz have looked for since Mike Conley.

We also need to give credit to Cody Williams, who has put together two solid performances. His presence on the floor has been impactful with his defensive ability, combined with a much more confident level of play on offense. Tonight, he shot 3/6 from the field and 2/4 from three. He also showed great defensive principles that create solid results with his NBA frame.

There wasn’t much else positive to take from this one, the team played very poorly. Will Hardy searched for multiple options and had Kyle Anderson out there for long segments in this one. It’s clear that Hardy is looking for answers during the game and isn’t finding many. He said so himself with this quote:

We’ll see how things evolve, but Utah has some evolving to do, and that probably includes their focus. Are they a team scrapping for wins, or should they be more worried about development? We’ll find out more as the season goes on.