But after going down big early, an energized lineup rallied for a much-needed 134-117 victory thanks to a relentless 21-0 run to begin the second quarter. Steph Curry scored 29, while Jimmy Butler put in 18 and dished out seven assists. Gary Payton II, starting at power forward, had his best game of the season: Nine points, six rebounds and a career-high eight assists. And the Jazz's vaunted size advantage? It never materialized. The Warriors outrebounded Utah 48-47.
Hats off to Markkanen for making the most of his situation in Utah. He was a key piece in the Donovan Mitchell trade to Cleveland back in the 2022 offseason, and the Finnish sharpshooter surprised everyone by stepping into the role of Utah's franchise player right away. Markkanen would, of course, be awarded the Most Improved Player award and earn an All-Star selection during his breakout in 2023. That season, he averaged nearly 26 points on 49.9% shooting from the field, 39.1% from three, and also grabbed 8.6 rebounds.
The Clippers have loaded up in the frontcourt, adding Brook Lopez, Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Collins this offseason. Collins averaged 19.0 points and 8.2 rebounds last season on 52.7 percent shooting.
