Jazz Seek Home-Opener Rebound Against Pelicans

Utah enters its home opener against New Orleans seeking a response after losing 123-103 to Memphis, a game in which the Jazz were outrebounded 55-38, committed 18 turnovers and gave up 45 points to Ty Jerome. Coach Will Hardy and guard Keyonte George have stressed improving defense, communication and control of possessions, while George’s extra work with rookie Darryn Peterson reflects the team’s emphasis on resilience and chemistry. Utah could get frontcourt help from Tony Bradley, upgraded to questionable after missing the opener with a quad injury, but Jusuf Nurkić remains out; New Orleans is reported to have a healthy lineup. The matchup comes as expectations for the Jazz have risen after years of rebuilding, with analysts pointing to the roster’s size and versatility but differing on how quickly it can contend.