The Utah Jazz are set to face off against the Orlando Magic this weekend in their first of two meetings for the season, but both teams will contend with significant injury challenges.
The injury report for the Jazz highlights several key players who will be unavailable for the matchup. Forward Lauri Markkanen has officially been ruled out due to a right groin injury, marking his third consecutive missed game and his second straight required management for this issue. Markkanen, who has been enjoying a standout season with averages of 27.8 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, shooting 46.9% from the field and 35.2% from beyond the arc, will be a notable absence for Utah.
With Markkanen sidelined, Kyle Filipowski is expected to take on a starting role, having filled in during the forward’s previous absence against the Los Angeles Lakers. Additionally, Keyonte George has stepped up as a significant offensive contributor, showcasing his ability to score—most recently netting 39 points in an overtime victory against the Dallas Mavericks. His performance will be crucial for the Jazz as they seek to rebound from their recent loss.
Utah’s injury report also lists Walker Kessler (left shoulder), Georges Niang (left foot), Elijah Harkless, John Tonje, and Oscar Tshiebwe as unavailable, further complicating their roster situation.
On the other side, the Orlando Magic are similarly struggling with injuries. They are likely to be without forward Franz Wagner, who has been out for weeks with an ankle sprain, and Jalen Suggs, who is doubtful due to a hip injury. Other players, including Jonathan Isaac and Tristan da Silva, are marked as questionable, which adds to the uncertainty heading into the game.
The Jazz and Magic will tip-off at 7:30 p.m. MT at the Delta Center, the third game of a homestand for Utah. The Jazz, looking to bounce back from a tough loss against the Lakers, will have to adapt quickly without their leading player, making this matchup even more intriguing.
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