Utah Jazz: Top 5 games to watch in 2018-19
By KC Whitten
5. Dec. 15, 2018 at Orlando Magic in Mexico City
For the first time in franchise history, the Utah Jazz will play a regular season game in Mexico City. The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN, and though the Orlando Magic have struggled recently, this contest will generate plenty of interest.
Orlando is in the midst of a dreadfully long rebuild, and is focused on constructing the team around forward Aaron Gordon. He is a fun player to watch due to his dunking abilities, and has continuously improved his offensive skill-set, averaging a career-high 17.6 points per game last season.
We will also witness the first matchup between centers Rudy Gobert and Mohamed Bamba. With both players standing at 7’1″ with nearly 8’0″ wingspans, we will see two of the biggest and longest players in the history of the NBA battle inside the paint.
If the idea of playing in Mexico City isn’t enough motivation, the Magic have another reason to topple the Jazz. Orlando has lost four straight to Utah in convincing fashion, with three of the four losses by double-digits. The Magic are just 3-12 against the Jazz in the past eight years.
With the league working to expand its brand internationally, and rumors of commissioner Adam Silver wanting to start a franchise in Mexico City, it’s considered an honor to play abroad and strengthen the NBA’s brand. Additionally, with Utah slated as the road team, it won’t forfeit a home game by playing in Mexico.