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Utah Jazz Set Season Scoring Record in Decisive Victory Over Indiana Pacers

Lauri Markkanen shoots over Ben Sheppard

Key Takeaways:

  • Lauri Markkanen dropped 35 points as the Jazz achieved a 152-128 victory against the Pacers on Wednesday night
  • Ace Bailey, in his second career start, contributed 20 points for Utah
  • Indiana dropped to 1-10, matching their worst season start set in 1988-89

Unstoppable Offence Powers Utah Past Injury-Hit Indiana

The Utah Jazz delivered an exceptional offensive display, reaching a league-high 152 points for the season as they overcame the Indiana Pacers 152-128 in Salt Lake City on Wednesday night. Leading the charge was Lauri Markkanen, who netted 35 points, while rookie Ace Bailey added 20 points, showcasing a complete repertoire of dunks, mid-range shots, and long-range efforts in only his second start after recovering from an illness.

Svi Mykhailiuk also provided valuable support for the Jazz, posting 20 points in a contest where Utah capitalised on Indiana’s depleted roster and defensive deficiencies. Despite the Pacers’ struggles, returnees Pascal Siakam and Aaron Nesmith tallied 27 and 17 points respectively, having rejoined the line-up following absences in Indiana’s previous outing.

Struggles Continue for Pacers Amid Historic Low

Last season’s Eastern Conference champions, the Pacers, fell to their eleventh defeat from twelve games, equalling the franchise’s worst start since the 1988-89 campaign. T.J. McConnell featured for the first time this season, recording 12 points in a limited 11-minute run as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Indiana entered the match with the league’s lowest offensive rating and the only team collectively shooting below 40% from the field this season. However, they managed a season-best 46.5% shooting on the night, yet still conceded 55.4% to a rampant Jazz side.

Though Indiana opened with a 10-0 run, the advantage was fleeting, as Utah surged to 38 first-quarter points, securing a lead they would not surrender. The Jazz exploited Indiana’s lack of interior defence, repeatedly penetrating the lane and finding open shooters. Isaiah Collier emerged as the principal creator, handing out 11 of Utah’s 38 assists.

Coaching and Hustle: Key Battlegrounds

Indiana head coach Rick Carlisle deployed all his timeouts in an effort to stem the Jazz’s momentum, yet his side struggled to keep pace. Despite coming off a back-to-back, the Jazz consistently outperformed Indiana in hustle plays, winning the rebound battle 45-35 and routinely being first to loose balls.

Utah Jazz LeadersStatisticIndiana Pacers LeadersStatistic
Lauri Markkanen35 pointsPascal Siakam27 points
Ace Bailey20 pointsAaron Nesmith17 points
Isaiah Collier11 assistsT.J. McConnell12 points (11 mins)

Looking Ahead

  • Indiana Pacers will visit the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday night
  • Utah Jazz are set to welcome the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night

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