After a wonderful debut to the Jaren Jackson Jr. era of Jazz basketball, Utah continues its east-coast roadtrip against the Miami Heat tonight. Jackson Jr., who impressed with 22 points and three steals, did not play in the fourth quarter after the Jazz led by 15 points in the third quarter against the Orlando Magic.
To say that national pundits were unhappy with Utah’s tanking job on social media would be an understatement. Unlike its tanking peers, Utah has not shut-down its stars Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Keyonte George for the remainder of the season with phantom injuries. Instead, they continue to play them, but have limited their minutes in favor of developing prospects at the end of games.
Arguably, this strategy is more honest and better for the league than shutting down players like Trae Young and Anthony Davis for the rest of the season. Fans get to watch starts like Markkanen and Jackson Jr. actually play, rather than missing the chance to watch them at all. In the name of retaining the pick and improving its future, the Jazz have no other choice.
Tonight, the Jazz will be without Keyonte George and Kevin Love. George has been battling a sprained ankle and re-aggravated it against Orlando.
Who: Utah Jazz vs Miami Heat
When: Monday, February 9, 2026 - 5:30 PM MT
Where: Kasaya Center, Miami, FL
How to watch: KJZZ, Jazz+
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