Utah Jazz: 3 takeaways from Game 1 vs. Thunder

The Utah Jazz may have lost Game 1 of their first round series, 116-108, but we take a look at reasons why they should have reasons for optimism the rest of the way.

The Utah Jazz may be down 0-1 in their first round playoff series, but they are certainly not down for the count. Even in a 116-108 Game 1 defeat against the Oklahoma City Thunder Sunday night, there were some positive takeaways to be found.

For instance, the Jazz scored 60 points the second half after only scoring 48 total in the first. They also won the turnover battle, only coughing the ball up 14 times to OKC’s 17. Most notably, the Jazz dominated the Thunder down low, outscoring the Thunder in the paint 50-32. There were some negatives beyond the (obvious) loss, but with some silver linings, it’s clear this series isn’t over by any means.

While Paul George was fun to watch in Game 1, exploding for 36 points on 8-of-11 shooting from 3-point range, he will most likely not become the Human Torch incarnate every game:

The Thunder are even more unlikely to shoot 87 percent from the free throw line, considering they were the second worst free throw shooting team in the league this season at 71 percent.

Russell Westbrook made his typical jump shots that would convince any casual fan that he’s a great all-around shooter, and then went on to miss every 3 he attempted. He would finish with 29 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists.

Carmelo Anthony had his normal, questionable shot selection while somehow finishing as the Thunder’€™s third-leading scorer with 15 points. Steven Adams quietly contributed off the box score per usual, and you realized that Corey Brewer was still in the league. 

For Utah, Donovan Mitchell exceeded expectations (more on him later). Ricky Rubio had the anti-Marshawn Lynch (interview game), shooting 5-for-18 overall; but after getting a little taste of the postseason is sure to calm down, and play better next game. Joe Ingles was obviously frustrated being guarded by Paul George most of the night, but still finished 5-for-9 overall, shooting 3-for-5 from deep. Rudy Gobert chipped in 14 points and seven rebounds on 6-of-8 shooting.

What does that leave Utah with?