Utah Jazz Aim to Snap Losing Streak Against Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland, January 12, 2026 – The Utah Jazz, struggling with a 13-25 record and mired in a four-game road losing streak, face a formidable challenge when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena. The Cavaliers, sitting at 22-18 and sixth in the Eastern Conference, have won five of their last seven games and boast a strong home record. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM EST, with Cleveland favored by 13.5 points and the total set at 249.5.
Team Background and Recent Form
The Jazz enter this matchup reeling from a lopsided 150-95 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on January 10, their worst defeat since relocating to Salt Lake City in 1979. Coach Will Hardy noted the team’s struggles with rebounding and three-point shooting, as Utah was outrebounded 65-31 and made just seven threes compared to Charlotte’s 24. Key contributors like Bryce Sensabaugh scored a team-high 26 points, but small forward Cody Williams posted a minus-60, setting a record for the worst plus-minus in NBA play-by-play history.
In contrast, the Cavaliers dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves 146-134 on January 10, scoring 83 points in the second half. Donovan Mitchell led with 28 points and eight assists, while Evan Mobley added 24 points. Cleveland has five players averaging at least 20 points per game in recent outings, a feat last achieved in 1972. Coach Kenny Atkinson praised the team’s pace and sharing of the ball, highlighting Jaylon Tyson’s defensive impact on Anthony Edwards.
The Jazz are 4-13 on the road this season, ranking eighth in the Western Conference in three-point shooting at 35.0 percent. The Cavaliers are 14-9 at home, seventh in the East in rebounding with 44.6 boards per game. Utah gives up 127.3 points per game, while Cleveland scores 120.0 and allows 117.6.
Key Facts / Stats
| Category | Utah Jazz | Cleveland Cavaliers |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 13-25 (13th in West) | 22-18 (6th in East) |
| Points Per Game | 119.0 | 120.0 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 41.1 | 44.6 |
| Key Injuries | Walker Kessler (out for season, shoulder), Jusuf Nurkic (probable, toe), Ace Bailey (questionable, hip), Georges Niang (out, foot) | Max Strus (out, foot), Dean Wade (out, knee) |
| Top Performers | Keyonte George (23.6 PPG, 6.9 APG), Lauri Markkanen (expected to play) | Donovan Mitchell (29.8 PPG, 5.6 APG), Darius Garland (17.7 PPG) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the projected starters for each team?
For the Jazz, expect Keyonte George at point guard, Bryce Sensabaugh at shooting guard, Cody Williams or Taylor Hendricks at small forward, Lauri Markkanen at power forward, and Jusuf Nurkic at center if he plays. For the Cavaliers, Darius Garland at point guard, Donovan Mitchell at shooting guard, Jaylon Tyson at small forward, Evan Mobley at power forward, and Jarrett Allen at center.
What are the betting odds and predictions?
The Cavaliers are favored by 13.5 points with a total of 249.5. Experts predict Cleveland will win due to their home advantage and recent form, but Utah could keep it close with improved shooting if their injuries clear up.
How have these teams fared in past matchups?
In their last meeting on March 23, 2025, Cleveland defeated Utah 120-91. Historically, the Cavaliers have dominated recent games, winning four of the last five head-to-head contests.