Jazz prepare for Westbrook matchup: 'Virtually impossible to defend'
Overall, things are going pretty well for the Utah Jazz this season. Sure, Gordon Hayward has struggled at times since defenses know he's the best playmaker on the team. And yes, the Jazz defense isn't quite the juggernaut it was to close last season. But Utah is No. 7 in the Western Conference playoff race, and the team knows where it needs to improve. Things could be worse.
Unfortunately for the Jazz, Monday is going to be quite the test. Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder are coming to town, and Utah's point guard is currently the weak link on the roster. That's not to say the Jazz point guards aren't up to the task. But the team will be relying on young guys to keep one of the NBA's best in front of them.
The team knows the challenge it faces, according to the Salt Lake Tribune, as coach Quin Snyder called Westbrook "virtually impossible to defend":
Asked what he can do against Westbrook, Jazz point guard Trey Burke exhibited endearing honesty:
It's unclear whether the Thunder will have Kevin Durant back, as the former MVP continues to rest after suffering a mild hamstring injury. According to reports, Durant could play if it were necessary, but Oklahoma City is taking the cautious rout in its star's return.
"It sure seems like he just does everything better," Snyder said assessing the guard's growth as a player. "I think he's always had a complete game. He's just gotten better and better."
"Just compete," Jazz point guard Trey Burke said. "There's nothing else you can do. We all know he's a great player, but you've got to compete against him. You can't go out there and just lay down."
